Australian Aboriginal Yidaki by Djalu Gurruwiwi

"Sonic Firebird"

Price: $688.00

SOLD

Description

"Sonic Firebird"

Concert Quality Vintage Yidaki

Crafted by Djalu Gurruwiwi

Watch a VIDEO demo of this didgeridoo below!

Djalu made this handsome yidaki around 2002, the prime of his crafting life when he was still doing much of the work himself. The timber is well seasoned by age and the instrument plays nearly effortlessly. Originally sourced directly from the art center in Yirrkala by a private collector. It comes with the original hang tag from Buku Larrnngay Mulka art center displaying its inventory number which is still held in records there. This yidaki features a natural mouthpiece and a 4.25" bell at the bottom end. Thick, heavy and roughly hewn as were all of Djalu's original instruments from back in the day. This one was also painted by Djalu himself, adding to its collectablilty.

To the worldwide community of yidaki players, collectors and enthusiasts, Djalu Gurruwiwi (pictured at right) needs no introduction. Renowned as the best craftsman, his yidaki are revered for their exceptional qualities. For years he has had many visitors coming to Arnhem Land to learn from him privately, and he has also led the yidaki Master Class at the Garma Festival every year since its inception. He has traveled to Germany, the USA, the Middle East and Asia to provide yidaki demonstrations and tuition.

Djalu is also distinguished from other yidaki makers as he is also a painter whose works on sheets of bark are held in major museums and collections in Australia and around the world. Djalu talks about his father having a yidaki with him at all times. When out turtle hunting in a dug-out canoe, Djalu recalls his father signaling the capture of a turtle by blowing horn tones on the yidaki to the rest of the family on the beach who would then prepare a big fire oven. Djalu often says how he blows his spirit into each instrument he makes, and sends it out around the world to spread the power of the yidaki.

Amongst his own people Djalu maintains his prominence as a yidaki master, talented artist, ceremonial leader and senior lawman for the Gälpu. This is an "old school" instrument, much more collectable than your average didgeridoo, and we honor that by using the proper Yolngu word for didgeridoo, "yidaki", here. A treasure for its sound, size, condition, well seasoned timber, and provenance. The interior bore is very clear and open which increases volume, harmonics, and clarity of tone. Features a natural mouthpiece sanitized with Didgeri-Clean (tea tree and lavender oil). No beeswax needed.

Soundwise: Concert Quality

This sweetly hot sounding yidaki delivers dense and steamy playing characteristics that keenly respond to fast, tongue-tripping riddims. DEEP HARMONIC REGISTER. Vocal response is remarkable in the low and midrange frequencies. Three easy horn tones, the first being warm against the drone and and offering a slow decay that is highly sought after. Surprisingly sensitive with unique distortion effects for dynamic bleeps, squalls, buzzes and little pips of static. Optimal strong backpressure allowing for easier circular breathing. Likely to sell quickly so please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Read our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

Includes Certificate of Authenticity, care guide and playing guide.

Watch Andjru demo this yidaki for you
and see the instrument in vivid HD detail!

Just click on the video below.

Specs for this yidaki:

Key: Between D and D#
Overtone toots: F#, C#, F#, B
Skill: Beginner to Advanced
Wood: Stringybark eucalyptus
Length: 60"
Top: 1.18" Inner diameter
Bottom: 4.25" Outer diameter
Mouthpiece: Natural wood
Backpressure: Strong
Weight: 8.4 lbs / 3.2 kg
Ease of play: Very easy
Loudness: Low IIIIIIIII High

What if you don't bond with this didgeridoo?
It can be exchanged within 30 days for any reason and there's no
restocking fee. Can't decide on one? Call 1-800-519-1140 for live help!

Our sound quality ratings:

CONCERT QUALITY First rate, professional quality sound with perfectly balanced acoustics.

HIGH QUALITY Very good sound. Better than most found at comparable prices.

GOOD QUALITY Nice introductory didgeridoo, but may lack in tonal quality and/or volume.

FAIR QUALITY Not for serious playing. Good for muking around on, or as a conversation piece.