Didjeridu - the story of an ancient instrument
How much do you know about the didjeridu? Have you ever seen it being played? Do you know how they are made? The didjeridu is internationally recognisable as a significant part of Aboriginal culture but even so, many non-Aboriginal people know very little about this ancient instrument.
Learn from the collections of the Yalga Binbi Institute and the University of Queensland Anthropology Museum about this ancient instrument's history.
The name didjeridu is not an Aboriginal name - it is a word used by Europeans and does not reflect the instrument's many different forms. There are many names, each given by a different Aboriginal language group. A few of these are Bambu, Bombo, Kambu, Papuu, Garnbak, Illpirra, Martba, Jiragi and Yiraki. Try saying all these names aloud.
The didjeridu plays an important part in many aspects of Aboriginal culture including art, dance and music. It can be played alone, to accompany singers and dancers, or with other instruments such as Bibras (clap sticks). Often didjeridus have distinctive designs painted or carved on the surface which reflect spiritual and cultural concerns.
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