Otamatone details
Parts
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Stem switch
Press anywhere on the black area to play notes. The lower the area the higher the note.
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Head
Extremely cute and made of soft silicon. Press the cheeks to move the mouth.
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Tail
No functionality but pretty cool. Can spin like a record (without the sound).
Playing Techniques
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Push Technique:
Play notes by simply pressing the stem switch.
- Unlike a touch screen you need to squeeze the stem with two fingers.
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Portamento Technique:
Let your fingers slide for gradual note progression.
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Wah-wah Technique:
Move the mouth to change the sound.
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Vibrato Technique:
Shake the stem while playing a note to add vibrato.
How to perform with ease
Unlike a guitar or a piano the Otamatone does not come with
distinct markers for note positions.
But if you prefer to have some that’s no problem at all.
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Stick some tape
Stick some tape to the stem so you can easily see it.
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note positions
Use the practice sheet (Otamatone only) or a tuner to locate note positions and mark them on the tape with a permanent marker.
- *The practice sheet can help you to get a feeling for intervals on the stem switch. Use a tuner to find the exact position of notes.
Practice repeatedly to get a natural feeling for the position of notes.
