Were Any Musical Instruments Invented in Australia?

While Australia is known for its rich cultural and natural heritage, many people may not be aware that the land down under has contributed to the world of music through its unique and innovative musical instruments. In this article, we will explore some of the musical creations that originated in Australia, from the famously simple yet distinctive sound of the wobble board to the more complex and revered didgeridoo.

Unusual Contributions: The Wobble Board and Lagerphone

Two nonseriously notable musical inventions from Australia are the wobble board and the lagerphone.

The Wobble Board

Invented by Rolf Harris, the wobble board gained notoriety due to legal issues and may even be in legal trouble. This instrument, while far from a traditional music-making tool, offers a unique sound that shares a catchy tune with a beloved Australian song. The wobble board is essentially a rectangular piece of hardboard or masonite, about 90 cm long and 60 cm wide. It is played by holding the board between the palms and shaking it, creating a distinctive "woop-woop" sound that can be heard in the jangle of the song "Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport."

The Lagerphone

The lagerphone is a more straightforward percussion instrument that involves nailing crown seal bottle caps to a stick. This is played by shaking it, which does not require considerable skill. Despite its simplicity, it still stands as a unique contribution from Australian inventors who enjoy brewing a little fun and noise into their lives.

The Serious Contender: The Didgeridoo

Among the more serious contenders, the didgeridoo especially stands out as a musical instrument with deep cultural significance, originating among Aboriginal communities. This ancient instrument has been in use for thousands of years and remains highly valued for its distinctive sound and its role in Aboriginal ceremonies.

Understanding the Didgeridoo

The didgeridoo is significantly more complex to play than the wobble board or lagerphone. Mastering the didgeridoo requires extensive practice and a high level of breathing control. The continuous droning sound produced by the didgeridoo is reminiscent of the background sound of bagpipes, which gives it a unique and haunting quality. This instrument is not just about making a noise; it is deeply connected to Australian Aboriginal culture and spiritual traditions.

Notable Uses and Appreciation

One modern example of the didgeridoo's influence can be seen in the rock band AC/DC. When the members of AC/DC visited Australia, they were introduced to this ancient sound, which they incorporated into their music, notably in their hit song "Back in Black."

Neighborhood Musicians and Global Recognition

It is not just professional musicians making use of the didgeridoo; in many parts of Australia, such as in some neighborhoods, people enjoy playing it as a hobby or for cultural events. The instrument has gained global recognition, with many musicians incorporating it into various genres of music, from traditional Aboriginal music to mainstream rock and even classical compositions.

In conclusion, while the wobble board and lagerphone may seem like simple and trivial inventions, they showcase the creativity and resourcefulness of Australian inventors. However, it is the didgeridoo that truly stands as a serious musical innovation with deep cultural roots, bringing a unique and haunting sound to music around the world.