The many
names of the 'didge'
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of genuine aboriginal didgeridoos go to the didjshop.
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Didjeridu, Didgeridoo,
Yidaki, Yirdaki, Ebroo, Bamboo, Dream Pipe, Didgeridu, Didjeridoo, Didjeridou, Didgereedoo, Didgiridoo, Digereedoo, Digeredoo, Digiridoo, Dijeridu, Dijeridoo, Digerido,
Didge, even Bullroarer! (and maybe some are simply typos :-)
Traditionally it is crafted
from eucalyptus hollowed out by termites who bore their way to the heartwood
at the centre of the tree. During the last decades modern didges have
been manufactured from uniquely native Australian trees to bamboo, Yucca
plants, clay, Gourd, plastic tubing, etc.
How
to play the 'didge'
The didge player uses
the lips as the reed and blows into the mouthpiece (opening fitted with
bees wax), creating a basicdrone. Using the tongue, mouth cavity, and
singing into the didge, the player modulates the sounds into rhythms,
animal calls, and many other variations.
A skilful player uses
what is called circular breathing - using the cheeks as a buffer during
inhalation through the nose - to blow continuously. This type of breathing
reduces the heart rate, balances the body and lessens the incidence
of colds, headache and flu. Playing the didge is easy, fun, and has
positive health benefits!
The 'didge' conquers
the music world
This instrument has found a place of choice amongst a growing number of enthusiastic amateurs and professional players around the world. With broadband internet facilitating downloads, eclectic music magazines and touring Australian bands of recent years, didgeridoo has become increasingly popular. It is featured in many CD's, soundtracks, workshops and festivals.
So don't wait any longer! Check online to find out about upcoming didge-featuring gigs in your hometown, or download some exciting didgeridoo music. If you're lucky you might find some didgeridoo lessons in your city! Give it a try and keep in touch with us here for updates and suggestions.
