A resonator guitar or resophonic guitar (often called a “dobro”) is an acoustic guitar that produces sound by conducting string vibrations through the bridge to one or more spun metal cones (resonators), instead of to the guitar’s sounding board (top).
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History
Origins
The resonator originated in the United States during the early 20th century. It was developed as a solution to the need for a louder guitar that could be heard in dance bands and blues ensembles. Traditional acoustic guitars were often overshadowed by brass instruments and other louder instruments, prompting inventors to create a new type of guitar that utilized metal resonators to amplify sound.
Invention and development
The first models were designed in the 1920s by John Dopyera and his brothers, who founded the National String Instrument Corporation. They experimented with various designs, ultimately incorporating metal cones into the body of the guitar. These cones functioned as sound amplifiers, allowing the guitar to produce a louder and brighter tone. The first models included the “National” guitars, which featured a single resonator, and the “Dobro,” a name derived from the Dopyera brothers’ surname, which typically featured a wooden body and a distinct “biscuit” resonator.
Popularisation
The instrument quickly gained popularity in the blues, bluegrass, and country music scenes. Notable musicians such as Son House, Bukka White, and the later rise of bluegrass artists helped establish its reputation. By the 1930s and 1940s, the instrument was widely adopted by musicians, with different styles emerging, such as bottleneck or slide guitar playing.
Design and construction
Physical characteristics
It is typically characterised by its unique body shape and the prominent metal resonator cones. It usually features a round or squarish body, often made from wood or metal. The cones, made from aluminum or brass, are mounted inside the body and project sound outwards, enhancing the instrument’s volume and tonal quality.
Types
There are several types, including the “single cone,” “tri-cone,” and “biscuit” models. The single cone resonator typically produces a louder, more focused sound, while the tri-cone design, featuring three resonator cones, offers a more complex and harmonically rich tone. Biscuit resonators are characterized by a wooden body and a distinct design that contributes to their unique sound.
Role in music
Genres
The instrument is primarily associated with various genres, including blues, bluegrass, country, and folk music. Its distinct tone and projection make it a popular choice for slide guitar playing, allowing musicians to create expressive melodies and intricate fingerpicking patterns. The resonator guitar has also found its place in contemporary music, often utilized in roots, rock, and Americana genres.
Influence on musicians
Many renowned musicians have contributed to the evolution, including Jerry Douglas, Ry Cooder, and Ben Harper. These artists have expanded the instrument’s repertoire and introduced innovative playing techniques, underlining its versatility and adaptability.
Modern usage
Contemporary performances
Today, resonators remain a staple in various musical styles, with modern luthiers producing high-quality instruments that cater to the needs of contemporary musicians. The unique sound continues to inspire new generations of guitarists, who explore its sonic possibilities in diverse musical contexts.
Customization and innovation
In recent years, custom-built resonators have become increasingly popular, allowing musicians to tailor the instrument to their specific preferences. Innovations in materials and construction techniques have further enhanced the resonator guitar’s sound, ensuring its relevance in the modern music landscape.
The resonator guitar is a distinctive and influential instrument that has left a lasting impact on American music. From its origins in the 1920s to its continued prominence in contemporary genres, the unique tonal qualities and versatility have solidified its place in the hearts of musicians and audiences alike. Its rich history and evolving designs ensure that it will remain a cherished instrument for years to come.