The didgeridoo is a musical instrument used by the Aborigines for dance, song and ceremonies. Each didgeridoo player has their own style and sound. The didgeridoo is usually made from wood, but one part of Arnhemland (Northern Territory of Australia) they are made from Bamboo. A didgeridoo is usually 3' 3" to 3' 11" (1 - 1.2m) in length and is hollow right through. When making a didgeridoo the center is shaped first and the outside is stripped off to suit the hollow center. The outside is smoothed off and painted with clays and ochre. Sometimes a story is told in the paintings. Playing the didgeridoo: place you lips firmly on the mouthpiece and make a loose raspberry sound and add some low noises from the throat to beef up the sound. The circular breathing is the most difficult part of playing the didgeridoo. Basically, you have to keep a constant noise coming out of the didgeridoo, whilst taking a breath in through your nose, all at the same time. Similar to playing the bag pipes. |