DidgElement

Didgeridoo maker using the "sandidg" method

DidgElement: who is Christian?

"A musician since the age of 10, I have always been fascinated by musical instruments from all over the world, whether traditional or contemporary. So it was only natural that I became interested in the didgeridoo when it crossed my path in 2003.

Since then I have never stopped playing, with a passion that keeps growing as I discover the instrument's incredible musical possibilities. In 2006, thanks to a meeting in Grenoble, I started making didgeridoos using the "sandidg" method, putting to good use my passion for working wood, that noble and magical material. Since then I have made many instruments, gradually perfecting my methods and constantly raising my standards, so as to have the best possible instruments to develop my playing.

It was at the urging of my fellow players that I decided to offer my creations for sale, hoping to give other enthusiasts instruments that meet their high standards, in terms of playability and sound quality as well as originality and looks.

How does Christian make his didgeridoos?

Designing a didgeridoo starts with choosing the wood. My two favourites are wild cherry and maple, for their aesthetic and acoustic qualities. However, I also use many other local woods that I find in the forest or in clearing areas: walnut, boxwood, beech, ash, holly, fruit trees, and so on.

I use the so-called "sandidg" method, which consists of cutting a trunk or branch in two, hollowing out both halves symmetrically, then gluing them back together. Although I also enjoy working from branches, most of my didgeridoos are made with the same method from wooden boards that I select myself at the sawmill.

Starting from beams rather than branches has a double advantage. First, the wood is perfectly dry, so less prone to cracking. Second, instead of being limited by the natural shape of the branch, you can let your creativity run free and approach the didgeridoo as a true sound sculpture.

When making an instrument, I start by designing the shape of the air column according to the acoustic qualities and looks I am after. After gluing, my instruments are reworked to achieve perfect balance, flawless playability and optimal sound quality: this is what gives each didgeridoo its unique character. Then, because I see the didgeridoo as an instrument that should be playable both solo and in a group, each of my creations is carefully tuned, both on the fundamental note and on the vibrations. Finally, I give the instrument back a natural look by carving the outside, playing on the shape, the grain and the other features of the wood, which I strive to bring out.

I believe our musicality develops more with a didgeridoo that we enjoy looking at and that reflects who we are. So it is essential to me that each of my creations is both a high-quality musical instrument and a unique, personalised piece of craftsmanship.

Every DidgElement instrument is carefully varnished inside and out, not only for looks but also for sound and durability. The mouthpieces, however, are in polished wood: the lips never touch the varnish, for optimal playing comfort.

Finally, for protection and transport, each of my didgeridoos comes with a standard DidgElement bag, carefully made from a sturdy fabric and lined with foam. For the most exceptional instruments I make a custom bag, with extra reinforcement at the bell, a handle and a balanced strap for perfect carrying." Kriss

Warranty: instrument guaranteed for 2 years by Kriss

The 2-year warranty runs from the date of delivery. It covers labour and the repair of cracks, splits or air leaks. If cracks appear on your instrument due to natural causes, Kriss will repair it free of charge. The buyer must return the instrument to DidgElement; shipping costs both ways and insurance are paid by the buyer. Before any return under this warranty, the buyer must contact DidgElement to obtain approval.

This warranty does not cover mistreatment, negligence, misuse or damage, whether accidental or not. If a didgeridoo returned for repair shows visible signs of mistreatment, the buyer will be responsible for all repair costs. Kriss