Washboard as Instrument
Washboard as an Instrument
The washboard, also known as a rub-board, is a percussion instrument that utilizes the ribbed metal surface of a cleaning device to create rhythmic sounds. It has a long history and has been widely used in various music genres such as jazz, zydeco, skiffle, jug band, and old-time music. This article explores the characteristics and techniques of playing the washboard, its variations, and its cultural significance.
Characteristics and Techniques
The washboard is played by tapping or scraping its ribbed metal surface. In traditional jazz and other genres, players often use thimbles on their fingers to achieve distinct sounds. The washboard can be played in different positions, including vertically down the chest, horizontally across the lap, or mounted on a stand. Each position allows for unique playing techniques and sounds.
In jug bands, the washboard can serve as a substitute for drums. It can be stroked with a single whisk broom, providing the rhythmic foundation for the band. The washboard’s percussive qualities make it an essential instrument in creating the back-beat of the music.
Variations: Washboard and Frottoir
The washboard has a variation called the frottoir or Zydeco rub-board. The frottoir is played primarily with spoon handles or bottle openers, using a combination of strumming, scratching, tapping, and rolling techniques. Unlike the washboard, the frottoir does not have a wooden frame but instead consists of the metal ribbing hung around the neck. This design allows for greater freedom of movement and a different range of sounds.
Historical Significance
The washboard has a rich history that traces back to its origins in West Africa. African slaves brought the practice of hamboning, a rhythmic percussion technique, to North America. This eventually led to the development of jug bands, which incorporated jugs, spoons, and washboards as rhythm instruments. Prominent players such as Washboard Doc, Washboard Willie, and Washboard Sam gained recognition for their skills and contributions to the instrument’s popularity.
In 1946, the Zydeco rub-board was invented by Clifton Chenier and fashioned by Willie Landry. This innovation eliminated the use of the wooden frame and instead attached straps to the metal ribbed surface. The Zydeco rub-board became a key element in Zydeco music, a genre originating in Southwest Louisiana with strong African and Creole influences.
Learning to Play the Washboard
Learning to play the washboard is relatively easy compared to many other musical instruments. It offers a range of sounds depending on the materials used and the type of movement employed. Beginners can start by experimenting with tapping and scraping techniques, gradually developing their own style and rhythm. With practice and exploration, players can create intricate patterns and contribute to the overall musical texture.
In conclusion, the washboard is a versatile and culturally significant musical instrument. Its ribbed metal surface produces distinctive percussive sounds that have been utilized in various music genres and bands. From its origins in West Africa to its evolution in North America, the washboard remains an integral part of rhythmic ensembles, adding texture and driving the beat.
Sources:
- Washboard (musical instrument) – Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washboard_(musical_instrument)
- How to Play the Washboard as a Musical Instrument. Retrieved from https://www.mrappliance.ca/blog/2019/june/how-to-play-the-wwashboard-as-a-musical-instrumen/
- The Fine Art of Playing the Washboard. Retrieved from https://musiconnx.wordpress.com/2008/09/22/the-fine-art-of-playing-the-washboard/
FAQs
How is the washboard used as a percussion instrument?
The washboard is played by tapping or scraping its ribbed metal surface to create rhythmic sounds. Thimbles are often used on the fingers to achieve distinct tones.
What genres of music traditionally use the washboard?
The washboard is traditionally used in jazz, zydeco, skiffle, jug band, and old-time music.
What techniques are employed when playing the washboard?
The washboard can be played by tapping or scraping it with thimbles. Different positions, such as vertically down the chest, horizontally across the lap, or mounted on a stand, allow for variations in playing techniques and sounds.
What is the frottoir and how does it differ from the washboard?
The frottoir, also known as the Zydeco rub-board, is a variation of the washboard. It is played primarily with spoon handles or bottle openers, using a combination of strumming, scratching, tapping, and rolling techniques. Unlike the washboard, the frottoir does not have a wooden frame but is a metal ribbing hung around the neck.
Can the washboard serve as a substitute for drums in a band?
Yes, in a jug band, the washboard can be stroked with a single whisk broom and functions as the drums for the band, playing on the back-beat.
What is the historical significance of the washboard?
The washboard has a rich history, with its origins in West Africa. It was introduced to North America by African slaves and became a prominent instrument in jug bands and other musical traditions.
What are the different musical genres and bands that have used the washboard?
The washboard has been used in various music genres and bands, including jazz, blues, rock, and folk.
Is it difficult to learn to play the washboard?
No, learning to play the washboard is relatively easy. With practice and experimentation, players can produce a variety of rhythms and sounds depending on the materials used and the type of movement employed.