These researchers report outcomes from a 6-month programme of once-weekly music lessons using a culturally significant wind instrument, the didgeridoo, for Aboriginal males and singing lessons for Aboriginal females, designed to increase their knowledge of asthma and support management of their asthma. All participants were asthmatics and were recruited from schools and through the rurally-based Aboriginal Medical Service. The programme produced noticeable improvements in respiratory function and health, was reportedly very enjoyable and had high retention rates. It also increased levels of cultural awareness among the didgeridoo players and noticeably improved girls’ social skills.
