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Why is an ocarina classified as a vessel flute?
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wind instrument
The Japanese end-blown flute, or shakuhachi.
The ocarina is classified as a vessel flute because it features a closed, globular-shaped body rather than a traditional tubular pipe.12
While most flutes utilize a tube to contain the vibrating air column, the ocarina’s design is distinct due to its rounded, egg-like form. It functions as a fipple flute, meaning it uses a duct or windway to direct an airstream against a sharp edge to produce sound. Because this globular structure serves as the vessel for the air column, the instrument is categorized as a subcategory of whistle flutes known as vessel flutes.321