Hempstone

Norbert Schmid's hemp didgeridoos

Austrian Norbert Schmid is the pioneer of hemp didgeridoos, long before the Australian models. It is worth remembering that this material was developed by an Austrian scientist. Hempstone is made solely of hemp fibres, with no additives, glue or synthetic binders. Hemp fibre is denser than the hardest wood: it can reach frequencies and resonate with energies beyond the reach of traditional wooden instruments.

Once processed, Hempstone, or "hemp stone", is as hard as stone. The innovation of this Austrian patent lies in the fact that the hemp fibre is moulded under heat and high pressure, with only water added. No glue or resin is needed in the making. The material is coloured with non-toxic pigments: it is non-toxic and malleable.

Over the years, Norbert has developed different configurations and models of didgeridoos. Today they are sought after all over the world. Production remains very limited, because of the lengthy process and the unique character of each instrument.