Didgeridoo Kookuburra Sound

Lesson Overview

In this lesson we show you how to make the sound of an Australian bird, the kookaburra. The kookaburra has an amazing “laughing” call which sounds incredible on the didgeridoo.

Here is a sound sample of the kookaburra

In this lesson we show you how to make the basic sound (which still sounds great!). The full kookaburra sound on the didgeridoo is very complex and uses multiple techniques. We should you how to play the advanced kookaburra in the intermediate lessons… so practice, practice, practice!

Lesson Goals

• Be able to make both the “koo” and “kaa” sound on the didgeridoo with your voice
• Change the volume to go from quiet, to loud, to quiet
• Be able to complete the full kookaburra sound on one breath

Training Tips

• Start slow, gentle and very small. As you get comfortable you can play longer, louder and higher
• Your brain will want to try and blow harder instead of just adding your voice. Remember, your airflow and drone should remain the same, just add your voice over the top
• Remember to follow the 3 steps
  1. First make the kookaburra sound with your voice, but without the didgeridoo
  2. Then make the same sound through your vibrating lips
  3. Then play the same sound on your didgeridoo
• Use the words “KOO… KOO… KOO” and “KAA… KAA… KAA” to form the sound
• Use a high pitched “cartoon” voice
• The higher pitched your voice, the clearer you will hear the sound
• This can be quite difficult, so keep practicing, it will get better and better and better

Give it a try, let us know how you go and if you get stuck, post a question in the comments section below.