Meet Cris
For over 25 years, I've been introducing audiences and students to the magic of the ocarina.
Like so many people, my obsession with this beautiful instrument started in 1999 with The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time. I was actually online looking for hints for the Water Temple when I saw an advertisement for an ocarina. I just had to have one.
When I finally got my first ocarina, it wasn't very good. But I kept searching until I found a quality instrument, and then I set about teaching myself everything I could. I played it constantly. It became a massive source of joy and comfort in my life. In a very short time, my passion turned into my first ocarina job selling pendant ocarinas at a Renaissance Faire.
Because I had to teach myself the tricks the hard way—from mastering breath pressure to hunting down quality instruments when resources were scarce—I dedicated my life to making the ocarina accessible to everyone. You don't need a formal musical background to play. Whether you want to learn your favorite gaming soundtracks, explore folk music, or just pick up a fun, portable hobby, I design my lessons to skip the frustration so you can start making beautiful music right away.
Over the last two decades, that initial spark has blossomed into an unbelievable career. It has taken me from performing locally for friends to representing the United States at numerous international ocarina festivals, designing my own line of Aria ocarinas, writing the Hal Leonard Ocarina Method, and even co-headlining a sold-out concert at Carnegie Hall.
And here's a video I took when I first visited Carnegie Hall.
I keep my current teaching studio selective so I can give my full energy and tailored attention to every single student. No matter your age, experience level, or goals, you are welcome here.
Official Biography & Highlights
(For festival directors, booking agents, and media use)
Cris Gale is a world-renowned ocarinist, teacher, author, and instrument designer based in North Texas. A former flutist who transitioned to the ocarina in 1999, she has spent over two decades popularizing the instrument globally. Cris has performed at prestigious international venues—including co-headlining a sold-out concert at Carnegie Hall—and frequently speaks at world music societies, anime conventions, and gaming events.
She is a passionate advocate for cultural exchange, partnering regularly with organizations like the Japan-America Society of DFW to foster global understanding through music.
Career Milestones:
- Author: The Hal Leonard Ocarina Method (2016)
- Founder: The United States Ocarina Association & The Annual U.S. Ocarina Festival
- Designer: Creator of the highly acclaimed Aria line of ocarinas
- Recording Artist: Featured soloist on major soundtracks including Austin Wintory's Horn and Path to Luma
- International Soloist: Represented the US at major festivals in Italy, South Korea, and Japan