As musical instruments go, it is unusual in appearance, sound and scope.
In Australian culture, it is known as a didgeridoo, commonly claimed by musical historians as the world’s oldest wind instrument. Traditionally born from the bark of a Eucalyptus tree, the didge is hollowed by termites, its shaft carefully crafted and colorfully decorated.
When played with continuously vibrating lips – amplified through a fitted beeswax or “sugarbag” mouthpiece – the natural wooden trumpet blares an ancient tone that’s unmistakably its own.
Generally, the longer the shaft, the lower the pitch.
The didgeridoo intrigues John Groves. He studied it in college and experienced first hand how the Aborigines shape and play it in their native land.
Today, Groves markets and sells the instrument worldwide online and locally from his newly opened suite in Auburn, where it is part of his musical repertoire as an instructor and brass-playing performer.
“There’s a lot of aspects to it,” said Groves, glancing at a row of rare and imported wooden didgeridoos at his studio in the Auburn Transit Station. “There is musical history tied to it and the intrigue of ancient musicians.”
Developed by indigenous Australians at least 1,500 years ago, the conical didgeridoo is played widely today, both in its homeland and around the world. The “drone pipe” has became a role-playing instrument in the experimental and avant-garde music scene.
Groves, 35, conducts music and business. A brass player, Grove performs with a jazz combo when he isn’t giving public and private lessons. He also is offering a seasonal trombone quartet, an opportunity for students to improve sight reading skills, explore music and hang with fellow trombonists from the area.
Previously in Kent, Groves found a more suitable location in Auburn. The new spot includes an acoustically-friendly studio for his clients and for those wishing to rent it for jam sessions.
Groves, who lives with his family in the Covington area, is willing to secure some retail space to drum up support.
“It’s a tough business,” he admitted. “People who are in it prefer to work out of their own homes.”
But Groves would rather go public and be heard.
“It’s enjoyable. You have your tradeoffs,” he said.
The fact that Groves’ new spot offers something new and unique is worthy of attention from world-class music connoisseurs and from those with curious ears.
Besides, it’s not every day you come across a didgeridoo.
“I mean, where else would you find it?” Groves said.
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We’re open
• Business:
• Location: 110 2nd St. SW, Suite 100, Auburn, at Auburn Transit Station
• Specializing: Didgeridoo gallery and music lessons. Private trombone, tuba, euphonium, low brass and didgeridoo lessons. Studio space for rent. Selection of didgeridoos, gear and Aboriginal art on sale.
• Join the ensemble: Forming a fall-winter trombone quartet. Open to trombonists, euphonium and tuba players, grades 9-up, as well as college and adult musicians.
• Open house: 2-4 p.m., Sunday
• Hours: By appointment
• Information: 1-800-350-1265, www.jgmp.com or www.didgeridoogallery.com
