WIX STIX
Bruce Wix and His Didgeridoos
Bruce Wix began crafting didgeridoos in the mid-1990s, quickly turning this endeavor into a passion that continues to thrive even 30 years later. His introduction to the didgeridoo came during his time aboard a line ship, where he traveled up and down the eastern coast of Cape York. His curiosity about the instrument and its diverse sounds motivated him to explore the intricacies of this earthy instrument.
As a carpenter and stair builder, Bruce already possessed extensive woodworking knowledge, which greatly benefited him in designing and creating his own unique style of didgeridoo.
Craftsmanship and Materials
Bruce’s didgeridoos are meticulously handcrafted from Australian eucalyptus woods, including Poplar Box, Silver Leaf Iron Bark, Black Woolly Butt, and Bloodwoods. Each piece of wood is selected for its specific characteristics, which contribute to the unique sound and quality of the finished instrument.
To ensure optimal sound quality, Bruce allows the logs to dry by removing the bark and sapwood before air-drying them for 6 to 12 months. This drying process is crucial for stabilizing the wood and enhancing its tonal properties. Once the wood has dried adequately, he shapes the logs and lets them rest again, allowing the wood to settle before applying a final coating of epoxy resin.
Mouthpiece Design
Bruce prefers wooden mouthpieces and uses either sleeves or a “mushroom” mouthpiece that is inserted into the didgeridoo. This method eliminates the need for a wax mouthpiece, providing a standard-sized mouthpiece that is both comfortable and functional. For this process, he selects various local woods, ensuring that each mouthpiece complements the overall design and acoustics of the instrument.
Unique Characteristics
Each of Bruce’s didgeridoos showcases his dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The combination of quality materials, careful construction techniques, and the individual characteristics of each piece of wood ensures that no two instruments are alike. Bruce’s didgeridoos not only produce rich, resonant sounds but also reflect the natural beauty of the wood from which they are crafted.
Bruce Wix’s journey into the world of didgeridoo making is a testament to his passion for this unique instrument. With a deep understanding of woodworking and a commitment to quality, he has created a range of didgeridoos that resonate with both players and enthusiasts. Each instrument is a piece of art, celebrating the cultural heritage of the didgeridoo while offering exceptional playability and sound quality.
