The didgeridoo is a wind instrument, played with continuously vibrating lips. The didgeridoo was developed by Aboriginal peoples of northern Australia at least 1,500 years ago, and is now in use around the world, though still most strongly associated with Indigenous Australian music. The instrument is known by different names by the different tribes namely; the yiḏaki, mandapul, mako, etc.
A didgeridoo is usually cylindrical or conical, and can measure anywhere from 3 to 10 ft long. Most are around 4 ft long. Generally, the longer the instrument, the lower its pitch or key. However, flared instruments play a higher pitch than unflared instruments of the same length. There are at least 45 names for the didgeridoo, several of which suggest its original construction of bamboo, such as bambu, bombo, kambu, and pampu.
Didgeridoos can be painted by their maker or a dedicated artist using traditional or modern paints while others retain the natural wood grain design.
The didgeridoo is played with continuously vibrating lips to produce the drone while using circular breathing. This technique requires breathing in through the nose whilst simultaneously expelling stored air out of the mouth using the tongue and cheeks. By use of this technique, a skilled player can replenish the air in their lungs, and with practice can sustain a note for as long as desired. Recordings exist of modern didgeridoo players playing continuously for more than 40 minutes.
A platter of crispy sweet potato pancakes is always welcome for holiday entertaining. This healthy pancake recipe is our twist on the spuds, making great use of sweet potatoes as a tasty alternative. We especially love this recipe as the weather starts to get chilly, but don't be afraid to make these tasty bites any time of the year!
- 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and shredded
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except oil; mix well. Form into 12 pancakes.
- In a deep skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry pancakes in batches 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden. (If you like them crisper, fry until they're flecked with brown.) Drain on a paper towel-lined platter and cover with foil. Repeat with remaining pancakes, and serve hot.
1893 – Edward G. Robinson, American actor (d. 1973)
1900 – Sammy Davis, Sr., American actor and dancer (d. 1988)
1915 – Frank Sinatra, American singer, actor, and producer (d. 1998)
1923 – Bob Barker, American game show host and producer
1938 – Connie Francis, American singer and actress
1940 – Dionne Warwick, American singer and television personality
1952 – Cathy Rigby, American gymnast
