Damon Mcknight
Australia is known for its rich traditional musical instruments, many of which have been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years. The country's indigenous music comprises the music of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with traditional forms varying from region to region and group to group. While the didgeridoo is the most famous Australian instrument, there are several other instruments that hold a special place in the country's heart.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most popular instrument in Australia | Cello |
| Second most popular instrument in Australia | Piano |
| Third most popular instrument in Australia | Violin |
| Most popular Australian-origin instrument | Didgeridoo |
| Other popular Australian-origin instruments | Clapsticks, Bullroarer, Gum-Leaf, Wobble Board |
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What You'll Learn
The Didgeridoo
The exact age of the Didgeridoo is unknown, but it is believed to have been developed by the Aboriginal peoples of northern Australia at least 1,000 years ago, with some sources placing its origins 1,500 years ago. The instrument is considered to be one of the best-known Aboriginal instruments and is used worldwide, although only a few individuals outside the Aboriginal community, such as David Hudson and John Butler, are known to play it.
The name Didgeridoo is not of Aboriginal Australian linguistic origin, and its exact origin is unclear. One theory suggests it is a western onomatopoeia, imitating the sound of the instrument, while another theory posits that it originates from Gaelic, meaning 'black trumpeter'. The Australian government formally accepts 'Didjeridu' as the correct spelling, but 'Didgeridoo' is the more popular spelling and the two are used interchangeably.
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Clapsticks
The Kulin people use clapsticks as their traditional instrument for song, dance, and ceremony. Clapsticks made from Tasmanian Blackwood with traditional designs are available for purchase online from the Aboriginal-owned and operated business Ngarga Warendj.
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The Bullroarer
The use of the Bullroarer is not unique to Aboriginal Australians, and it has been employed by various cultures around the world for thousands of years. For example, the pūrerehua is a traditional Māori bullroarer, and bullroarers have also been used by Native American tribes, the Shamans of the Amazon basin, and in ancient Greece.
In modern times, the Australian band Midnight Oil included an imitation bullroarer recording on their 1987 album "Diesel and Dust". The imitation was created using a ruler with a piece of rope wrapped around it, as drummer Rob Hirst explained that using a real bullroarer would have been "cultural imperialism".
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The Gum Leaf
The instrument is considered unique to Australia, with Herb Patten being one of the few professional Gum Leaf players in the world. To help people appreciate the beauty of this instrument, Patten released two CDs: "How to Play the Gum Leaf" and "Born an Aussie Son".
In 2023, the cello was voted the most beloved instrument in Australia, with the piano and violin coming in second and third place, respectively. However, in a countdown of Australia's favourite instruments, the didgeridoo, an iconic Australian instrument, placed 15th.
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The Cello
In Australia, the cello is accessible to beginners and students, with brands like Enrico offering affordable yet quality instruments. Cello accessories and bows are also available for purchase and delivery across the country. For those looking to upgrade, there are a variety of options available from local and international makers and manufacturers.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2023, the cello was voted Australia's favourite instrument in the ABC Classic 100 held by ABC Classic and ABC Jazz.
Traditional Australian instruments include the didgeridoo, clapsticks, bullroarer, gum leaf, and the wobble board.
The didgeridoo is a wind instrument, played with vibrating lips to produce a continuous drone while using a special breathing technique called circular breathing. It was developed by the Aboriginal peoples of northern Australia at least 1,000 years ago and is now used worldwide, though it is still most strongly associated with Indigenous Australian music.
