Didgeridoos – Clearly Distinct

There is no mistaking the distinctive sound of a didgeridoo, the ancient woodwind instrument associated for centuries with the aborigines of Australia. They have been made and used from times immemorial and are prized today as amongst the greatest symbols of aboriginal culture, music and tradition. Usually made from the wood of the eucalyptus tree, which has been hollowed out, they are adorned with colourful inscriptions and pictures, all of which are significant and symbolical to those who make and play them. It is said that a didgeridoo is not authentic unless it has been made by someone who himself has been involved in this long line of tradition and history and whose ancestors likewise made and used these instruments.

Succeeding generations have used the didgeridoo in ceremonies, civil and religious, at celebrations and on special occasions. It is regarded almost as something sacred, like totem poles to the Indians, and is considered to be a potent way of perpetuating the ancient aboriginal tradition, culture and way of life, currently under threat. They come mainly from the Yolgnu peoples of northern Australia and sometimes the didgeridoo is known as a Yidaki. Some are made now in plastic as they are said to be more hygienic. There are long didgeridoos, bell didgeridoos, and forked didgeridoos. No one exactly knows the origin of the word didgeridoo, although many suggestions and theories have been propounded.

They come in all shapes and sizes although basically they are a long hollow pipe but you can buy didgeridoos that make low sounds and others that produce high notes. The material they are made from impacts on the sound they make and they require a strong pair of lungs if they are to be really effective. Because of this there are some health benefits to be derived from playing this ancient instrument and it might be wise to browse sites that focus on how to correctly play the didge.

Although the didgeridoo is very popular and many are sold throughout the world, there is no guarantee that these are authentic, in the way I have described and therefore the north Australian tribes who still make them and rely heavily upon their sales for income, are seeing very little by way of profit and their way of life and very existence is in grave danger. We can do something to help by insisting on buying truly authentic aboriginal didgeridoos and obtaining some form of proof or evidence that the instrument you are buying is authentic.