What is a Wobble Board Instrument?
The wobble board instrument is a unique musical instrument known for its distinctive sound and playability. It was invented and popularized by Rolf Harris, an Australian musician and artist, and is featured in his well-known song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport”. The instrument consists of a thin, moderately stiff sheet that wobbles at a varying frequency, producing a characteristic “whoop-whoop” noise when played.
Invention and Popularization
The wobble board instrument was invented and popularized by Rolf Harris. Around 1960, Harris used the wobble board as a backing for his song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down”, which brought attention to this unique instrument and its distinctive sound.
Construction
The wobble board is constructed using a thin, moderately stiff sheet that is capable of wobbling at different frequencies. It can be made from various materials, including hardboard (Masonite) or tempered hardboard. These materials provide the necessary flexibility and springiness for the board to produce the desired wobbling effect.
Playing Technique
To play the wobble board, one holds the board lengthwise with the hands gripping the edges. By flicking the board outward, a characteristic “whoop-whoop” noise is created. The angle at which the board is held and the manner in which it is flicked can alter the timbre and pitch of the sound produced. This allows for variations in the musical expression and adds to the instrument’s versatility.
Impromptu Use
While official wobble boards were sold commercially for a period of time, almost any large, springy, and flexible sheet of material can be used as an impromptu wobble board. However, some materials may produce better results than others. The choice of material affects the instrument’s responsiveness and the quality of the sound produced.
In conclusion, the wobble board instrument is a unique musical instrument invented and popularized by Rolf Harris. Its construction involves using a thin, moderately stiff sheet capable of wobbling at varying frequencies. The playing technique involves holding the board lengthwise and flicking it outward to create the characteristic “whoop-whoop” sound. While official wobble boards were available commercially, improvising with various materials can also yield interesting results. The wobble board’s distinct sound and playability make it a fascinating addition to the world of musical instruments.
Sources:
- “Why does a wobble board wobble” – Rod Cross, Sydney University, July 2006 (http://www.physics.usyd.edu.au/~cross/Wobble%20Boards/WobbleBoard.htm)
- “Wobble board” – Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wobble_board)
- “Wobble board” – Academic Kids (https://academickids.com/encyclopedia/index.php/Wobble_board)
FAQs
What is a wobble board instrument?
The wobble board instrument is a unique musical instrument known for its distinctive sound and playability. It was invented and popularized by Rolf Harris, an Australian musician and artist, and is featured in his well-known song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport”. The instrument consists of a thin, moderately stiff sheet that wobbles at a varying frequency, producing a characteristic “whoop-whoop” noise when played.
How was the wobble board instrument invented?
The wobble board instrument was invented by Rolf Harris. Around 1960, Harris used the wobble board as a backing for his song “Tie Me Kangaroo Down”, which brought attention to this unique instrument and its distinctive sound.
What materials are used to construct a wobble board instrument?
The wobble board instrument can be constructed using materials such as hardboard (Masonite) or tempered hardboard. These materials provide the necessary flexibility and springiness for the board to produce the desired wobbling effect.
How is the wobble board instrument played?
To play the wobble board, one holds the board lengthwise with the hands gripping the edges. By flicking the board outward, a characteristic “whoop-whoop” noise is created. The angle at which the board is held and the manner in which it is flicked can alter the timbre and pitch of the sound produced.
Can any material be used as an impromptu wobble board instrument?
Almost any large, springy, and flexible sheet of material can be used as an impromptu wobble board. However, some materials may produce better results than others. The choice of material affects the instrument’s responsiveness and the quality of the sound produced.
What makes the wobble board instrument unique?
The wobble board instrument is unique due to its distinctive sound and playability. The wobbling effect produced by the board creates a characteristic “whoop-whoop” noise that sets it apart from other musical instruments. Its versatility in altering the timbre and pitch of the sound adds to its uniqueness and musical expression.