Master Yidaki D*a*u Gurruwiwi
My Comments: From the global community of players, to collectors, to didgeridoo enthusiasts, the old man D*a*u Gurruwiwi needs no introduction. Renowned as the "finest" craftsman, his yidakis are revered for their exceptional quality. Since his departure in 2022 for the Dreamtime, his instruments are extremely rare to obtain.
This yidaki is part of my personal collection; it was made and painted by D*a*u Gurruwiwi himself. It is an extraordinary piece because the old man almost never paints on yidakis, or only very simple designs. This yidaki combines all of D*a*u Gurruwiwi's expertise. A master yidaki the likes of which are no longer found today.
Classification
This scale is the result of an air column/bell start ratio If we divide the diameter of the bell with that of the beginning of the air column we get a number between 1.5 and 3.5. We can classify all the didgeridoos in 4 large families. Each family groups the instruments with a similar character, simply based on the overall shape of the air column (conical/cylindrical) and on the diameter of the column (wide/narrow). The result is a simple and very reliable reading grid, making it easier to search and purchase on line.
The diameters are measured with a caliper, start of the air column after the mouthpîece. This ratio is very reliable for a didg having a air column with a 'smooth' internal work, in the case of a hollowed eucalyptus instrument it give an approach of the instrumental character.