Definition: The didgeridoo is an ancient wind instrument developed by the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. Didgeridoos are generally long cylinders (well over 1 yard/1 meter), made out of branches that have been naturally hollowed out by termites. The sound is made by vibrating, or flapping, the lips continuously while blowing into the didgeridoo using circular breathing techniques to keep air flow constantly moving. This allows the player to sustain the notes for great lengths of time.
The didgeridoo is generally tuned to a specific note, though the long shape of the instrument causes undertones and harmonics to come out with the "root" (the note which the chord is formed around). Many new listeners describe the sound as strange and even spooky, and, indeed, the didgeridoo is said to have great spiritual power and is an important part of Aboriginal religious ceremonies.
The didgeridoo has been more recently incorporated in Western music, mainly in jambands and world-fusion bands.
The didgeridoo is generally tuned to a specific note, though the long shape of the instrument causes undertones and harmonics to come out with the "root" (the note which the chord is formed around). Many new listeners describe the sound as strange and even spooky, and, indeed, the didgeridoo is said to have great spiritual power and is an important part of Aboriginal religious ceremonies.
The didgeridoo has been more recently incorporated in Western music, mainly in jambands and world-fusion bands.
Pronunciation: DIDJ-ur-ee-DOO; DIDJ-ur-uh-DOO
Also Known As: artawirr, djibolu, kurmur, martba, and more - all individual Aboriginal tribes have their own name for the instrument.
Alternate Spellings: didjeridu
