What is a Wobble Board Instrument?
The wobble board instrument is a unique musical instrument known for its distinctive “whoop-whoop” sound. It was invented and popularized by Rolf Harris, an Australian musician and entertainer, and has gained recognition through his song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport.” In this article, we will explore the construction, playing technique, materials used, and decorative potential of the wobble board instrument.
Invention and Popularization
The wobble board instrument was invented and popularized by Rolf Harris, who introduced it to the public around 1960. He used it as a backing instrument in his song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport.” Since then, the wobble board has become synonymous with Rolf Harris’s performances and has gained popularity in the music industry.
Construction
The wobble board instrument is constructed using a thin, moderately stiff sheet of material. One common material used for making wobble boards is hardboard, also known as Masonite. Hardboard provides the necessary flexibility and rigidity to produce the characteristic wobbling effect. The instrument’s construction allows it to vibrate and produce sound when played.
Playing Technique
To play the wobble board, it is held lengthwise with the hands gripping the edges. The player then flicks the board outward, creating the distinctive “whoop-whoop” noise. The angle at which the board is held and the way it is flicked can alter the timbre and sound produced by the instrument. The wobble board’s playing technique requires coordination and control to achieve the desired sound effect.
Materials
While hardboard is commonly used for making wobble boards, almost any large, springy, and flexible sheet of material can serve as an impromptu wobble board. However, some materials are better suited for this purpose than others. Rolf Harris initially used hardboard, but tempered hardboard or MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) board can also work well. These materials offer the right combination of flexibility and rigidity to produce the characteristic wobbling effect.
Decorative Potential
One notable aspect of the wobble board instrument is its decorative potential. Due to its large surface area, the wobble board can be ornately designed without compromising its musical capability. This allows musicians and artists to showcase their creativity by adding visual elements to the instrument. The decorative aspect enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the wobble board and contributes to its unique identity.
In conclusion, the wobble board instrument, invented and popularized by Rolf Harris, is a unique musical instrument known for its distinctive sound. Constructed from a thin, moderately stiff sheet of material, such as hardboard, the wobble board is played by holding it lengthwise and flicking it outward. Various materials can be used to create a wobble board, with hardboard, tempered hardboard, and MDF board being common choices. The instrument’s large surface area allows for decorative potential, adding to its visual appeal. The wobble board continues to be a fascinating instrument, intriguing both musicians and audiences alike.
Sources:
- “Wobble board” – Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wobble_board
- “Why does a wobble board wobble” – Rod Cross, Sydney University. Retrieved from http://www.physics.usyd.edu.au/~cross/Wobble%20Boards/WobbleBoard.htm
- “Wobble board” – Academic Kids. Retrieved from https://academickids.com/encyclopedia/index.php/Wobble_board
FAQs
What is a Wobble Board Instrument?
How would you define a wobble board instrument?
A wobble board instrument is a unique musical instrument known for its distinctive “whoop-whoop” sound. It consists of a thin, moderately stiff sheet of material, such as hardboard or Masonite, that is held lengthwise and flicked outward to produce sound.
Who invented and popularized the wobble board instrument?
The wobble board instrument was invented and popularized by Rolf Harris, an Australian musician and entertainer. He introduced it to the public around 1960 and used it in his song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport.”
How is a wobble board instrument played?
To play a wobble board instrument, it is held lengthwise with the hands gripping the edges. The player then flicks the board outward, creating the characteristic “whoop-whoop” noise. The angle at which the board is held and the way it is flicked can alter the timbre and sound produced.
What materials are used to make a wobble board instrument?
A wobble board instrument is typically made from a thin, moderately stiff sheet of material. Common materials used include hardboard (Masonite), tempered hardboard, and MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard). These materials provide the necessary flexibility and rigidity to produce the wobbling effect.
Can any large, flexible sheet of material be used as a wobble board?
Yes, almost any large, springy, and flexible sheet of material can be used as an impromptu wobble board. However, some materials, such as hardboard, tempered hardboard, or MDF board, are better suited for creating a wobble board due to their specific characteristics.
How does the construction of a wobble board instrument contribute to its sound?
The construction of a wobble board instrument allows it to vibrate and produce sound when flicked. The thin, moderately stiff sheet of material is designed to flex and wobble, creating the characteristic sound effect that gives the instrument its name.
Can a wobble board instrument be decorated?
Yes, the large surface area of a wobble board instrument allows for decorative potential. Musicians and artists can add ornate designs and visual elements to the instrument without compromising its musical capability, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
What makes the wobble board instrument unique?
The wobble board instrument is unique due to its distinctive sound, created by flicking a thin, moderately stiff sheet of material. It also stands out for its association with Rolf Harris, who popularized the instrument through his performances and song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport.” Additionally, the wobble board’s large surface area provides an opportunity for artistic decoration, further adding to its uniqueness.