DreamTime (Agave) Pipes
DreamTime Pipes are an original American wind instrument that were inspired by the Australian didjeridoo. They are made from a native Southwest agave cactus which sends up a flowering stalk at the end of its 35-65 year life span. These stalks shoot straight up, or grow in gentle spirals and curves, occasionally with large flared bases. Drying in place over several seasons, the fibrous stalks become hard and woody. We only harvest the specific agaves that produce the thick and dense wood. Our crafting process allows us to hollow each stalk following its natural exterior shape, while removing all the interior soft fiber, to produce an instrument with interesting, unique tones. In fact, our superior pipes can be identified from imitators by checking that the interior hollow follows the natural exterior shape of the stalk as it was made by the Creator.
With Allan's fanatic obsession for details, each stalk is meticulously prepared with a master craftsman's eye. Natural imperfections from insects and drying are treated as part of each stalk's character and many are filled with hand cut turquoise chips. Our pipes are finished using a clear, non-toxic, environmentally-friendly product suitable for food containers. This product also prevents the rather nasty crystallized interior crust which results from contact of saliva with many alternative finishes. Our pipes will not split or crack.
DreamTime Pipes are suitable for beginners to advanced players. They are played by buzzing the lips, adding vocal chords and imagination. DreamTime pipes are so responsive that control of the breath is more important to playing than large lung capacity, and unlike didjeridoos they are warmed up and ready to play immediately. From ear-splitting trumpeting and shrieks, to droning, to soft murmurs and singing harmonics, the tones reach deep inside us.
