Otamatone Songbook 53 Easy Songs from Different Countries: Simple Sheet Music - Just Follow the Circles!

We recommended scanning the QR code on each page and listening to the melody and rhythm before playing. This is the most natural method to learn music. You do not need to have any musical experience or be able to read music using this book. Our circles do not show the pitch and duration of notes and rhythmic patterns. All melodies were simplified for a one-octave Otamatone.  

The Otamatone is an electronic musical device that operates on batteries. Its name blends the Japanese "otamajakushi" (which means "tadpole" or "ladle") with "tone," reflecting both its appearance and the sounds it produces. Though originally made as a toy, it has gained popularity among musicians as a playful yet expressive instrument.

How to Use

  Move the volume switch on the back to the right and adjust it to a moderate level.

  Tap the black strip on the stem with your fingers to generate sound.

  One of the Otamatone’s most entertaining aspects is its flexible, squeezable face! While holding down a note, press both sides of its head to open its mouth, altering the tone with a vocal-like "wah" effect.

Adjusting the Pitch

  Deluxe Models: Generally, these start at C and extend up to G-sharp (covering about one and a half octaves), but some variations begin at different notes, such as F to A. Refer to the manual for specifics.

  Standard Models: These span a single octave from C to C. Due to their compact size, shifting between notes requires minimal finger movement. You can adjust the octave range with the switch on the back.

  Digital Models: Unlike standard and deluxe versions, which use a smooth, touch-sensitive strip, digital models feature piano-style keys along the stem for a different playing experience.

If your Otamatone doesn’t have labeled notes, you can use masking tape along the stem and mark note positions with the help of a tuner. The free "Otama Tuner" website can assist in identifying pitches. For beginners, pre-made Otamatone note stickers (available on Amazon) can be a convenient solution.

Be aware that note placement isn’t fixed—it can shift up or down due to temperature, humidity, and battery levels. Installing fresh batteries can restore its pitch range, but the instrument cannot be permanently tuned to keep notes in the same spots. Because of this, avoid marking notes directly on the stem with permanent ink. However, digital models remain consistently in tune.

Playing Techniques

Pressing Method

Simply press the stem with your fingertips to produce a sound. This is the easiest way to play and perfect for beginners.

Sliding Method

Hold down the stem while gliding your fingers up or down to change pitch. This allows for fluid transitions that aren’t possible on fixed-pitch instruments like a piano. Maintain steady pressure while sliding for a smooth sound.

Vibrato Effect

Hold a note and rapidly shake your wrist to add a quivering effect.

 Alternatively, grip the Otamatone’s face with your thumb and middle finger while gently moving your hand, causing the whole instrument to vibrate for a similar sound.

Portamento (Gliding Notes)

Move seamlessly between notes by sliding your fingers along the stem, much like playing a slide whistle.

"Wow" Effect

For a human-like vocalization, press a note and then squeeze the Otamatone’s face to open its mouth. This produces a distinctive "wow wow" sound, giving the illusion that the instrument is singing. To achieve the best result, play the note first and then open the mouth.

"Expanding Your Sound"  

If you have an "Otamatone Neo" or "Otamatone Techno", you can connect it to external devices for even more versatility. Use a "3.5mm stereo cable" to link it to a smartphone and unlock new sounds with the "Otamatone Studio app". This app offers:  

- Sound effects  

- Instrument variations (guitar, violin, flute, synthesizer, even a cat’s meow!)  

- Different musical scales  

- Rhythm settings  

- A piano keyboard simulation for more precise playing  

List of Songs

North America

Alice the Camel

Ani Couni Chaouani

Aura Lee

Bim Bum Biddy

Buckeye Jim

Jacob's Ladder

Li'l Liza Jane

Kum-Ba-Yah

Michel Row Your Boat

Over the River

Peace Like a River

Latin America

Brinca la Tablita

Cucaracha

DoDo Petit PoPo

Tingalayo

Cumpleanos Feliz

Lost my Gold Ring

Los Pollitos Dicen

Africa

Banuwa

Che Che Koolay

Do-Do-Ki-Do

Funga Alafia

Kanzenzenze

Labe-igi-Orombo

Obwisana

Sansa Kroma

Shosholoza

Welcome Song

Europe

Five Little Ducks

Five Little Monkeys

Hush Little Baby

Old Mother Hubbard

This Old Man

See-Saw Margery Daw

Buenos Dias

Donde estan las Llaves

Au Clair de la Lune

Pirouette Cacahuete

Frere Jacques (Are You Sleeping?)

Un Petit Cochon

Vous Diraije Maman (Twinkle Little Star)

Giro-Giro-Tondo

Oh Che Bel Castello

Mein Hut (My Hat)

Asia

Kalinka

Kum Bachur Atzel

Anile, Anile

Gayatri Mantra

Maha Mrityundjaya Mantra

Zhao Peng You

Hotaru Koi

Australia & Oceania

Epo-i-Tai-Tai-e

Kangaroo, Skippy Roo