A washboard, also called a frottoir, is a percussion instruments played by tapping, strumming or stroking it. It is a solid, wood frame with a ribbed surface made of steel. It is played in the traditional way by stroking its ribbed surface with the fingers. It can be strummed using a thimble to achieve a variety of sounds.
The washboard is popularly used in old time, jazz, Cajun, and skiffle music. Originally an instrument for washing clothes, it has evolved into a unique musical instrument.
Types Of Washboards
Kinds of Washboards include the following:
Small washboard
A small washboard is made up of a wooden frame and a playing surface made of corrugated steel.
It approximately has a length of 18 inches and a width of nine inches.
It comes in different finishes.
Large washboard
A large washboard is made up of a wooden frame and a playing surface made of corrugated steel.
It approximately has a length of two feet and width of one foot.
It comes in different finishes.
Choosing Washboards (Buying Tips)
User: Choose a small washboard for a beginner child musician. A large washboard is ideal for adults.
Accessories: For easy playing, choose a washboard that comes with thimbles.
Playing surface: To get a better sound, look for a washboard with a playing surface made of galvanized steel instead of aluminum.
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