Instruments
The Didgeridoo
The didgeridoo is a wind instrument made of wood, and around 1.2 meters long. It is a simple wooden tube, blown from the opening like a trumpet to create a deep, rich sound. It was developed by Indigenous Australians and is still used across the globe today.
Significance
The didgeridoo is well known to heal people through the sound vibrations. When the instrument is played near the body of a person, it is known to heal that body part through the low frequency vibrations. For example, if you sprained your wrist, the instrument could be played near the wrist in order to heal it faster
How it is created
A small local tree trunk or branch (commonly eucalyptus) is hallowed out naturally by termites, then cleaned out with a stick. Next, the outside is refined by scraping then painting traditional designs from Indigenous culture such as a snake or flower.
The Drums
There are many different types of indigenous drums in terms of structure and design. The two main types are a hand drum and a larger Powwow drum. The hand drum is held by both men and women, and have either deer, elk, horse, or buffalo skin stretched across a hollow wooden frame. They are held by a leather handle, and are hit with a stick. Large Powwow drums are made from a similar materials, but is played by many men (traditionally) who all hit the drum in rhythm to make a strong beat.
Significance
The drums represent the voice of the creator; it speaks of a balance with the natural world. Rhythm is a huge part of indigenous life; it is all around and in everything they do.
The Rattles
The rattles are instruments made from either wood or hide, and are filled with seeds, pebbles and shells in order to make a beat. They are used to help keep rhythm during tribal dances and ceremonies. The rhythm the rattle helps keep during the dance is unforgettable - something that resonates to the very soul, helping make the ceremony a spiritual experience.
Significance
The rattles are the instrument of independence, and represents the three sacred kingdoms; animal, mineral, and plant. The animal kingdom is represented by the container or feather decorations used on the rattle. The mineral kingdom is represented by rocks used for sound or the paint used for decoration. The plant kingdom is represented by the wooden handle of the rattle. All three work in harmony to create a sacred musical sound.