Traditionally Aborigines mimic the sounds of their surroundings while playing. These sounds can be mixed with droning to create rhythms, which is how the didge is used as a rhythm wind instrument.
		MP3 The Kangaroo Hop. Keep the drone going and quickly say the letter D. Tap the roof of your mouth with the tip of your tongue while you do it. Now, to create the sound of hopping just say "doing" while playing.
		MP3 The Dog Bark and Growl. Keep the drone going and scream into the didgeridoo. A loud and startling sound should come out. Refine it by trying to imitate a deep growl and dog bark.
		MP3 The Kookaburra is of the kingfisher family and considered the protector by Aboriginal people and is distinguished by its gurgling, laughter like call. Bird call is talking rather than singing in Aboriginal cultures, only humans can sing. Listen to the kookaburra call by clicking here. You will need a Quicktime player to hear it. This sound file is provided by Will Campbell of the Los Angeles Zoo who waited 45 minutes to get this clip for us from a resident kookaburra! Thanks Will!
		MP3 Once the drone is going try tightening and loosening your lips and moving your tongue into the letter E position slightly to change the pitch. If for example a didgeridoo is tuned to key of C you should be able to vary the key from C sharp to C flat with just lip pressure.
		MP3 Try very quickly to expel the air in your mouth while playing to make a popping noise. Try using your cheeks first then try the back of your tongue. Each will expel the air differently and change the sound.
		MP3 The Tongue Roll. This is a bit more difficult to do and keep the droning going. Just roll an R like in Spanish with your tongue and do not let the drone stop. Are we having fun yet? If not, do not get stressed and keep at it, you will get it!
		MP3 The Hornblast or Toot. First warn the neighbors! Very tightly press your lips together and blow hard like a trumpet. You should get a loud blast out the end. For an advanced technique try switching from droning to a quick hornblast and back to droning in your rhythms.
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