THE APPALACHIAN MOUTH BOW: EASY TO MAKE, EASY TO PLAY!

(Page 3 of 3)

May/June 1983
by Rick Sell 
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Of course, you may decide to leave your instrument as is, but if you want to stain or oil the wood, you'll need to dismantle the bow first. (Incidentally, don't use a heavy finish such as varnish, as it would interfere with the resonance of the wood.) Leave the screws in place-and the brad, too, if you used one-but do take off the string and tuning peg while you apply the finish. When it's well rubbed in and thoroughly dry, reassemble the instrument, set the tension, and get ready to play.

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CHEEKY DOINGS

Playing the bow is just a matter of using your mouth as a sounding box while the slat lies against your cheek (see the photographs to learn the correct way to hold the instrument). Grasp the center of the bow with one hand, and pluck the string with the other. Then open and shut your mouth, and stretch and alter its shape to change the resonating sounds. It's a lot like humming . . . and, with a little practice, you should soon be able to play Jimmy Driftwood and Johannes Brahms with equal ease.

The mouth bow is an ancient instrument, and maybe that's why its sound seems so refreshing and comforting in this modern world. Just gather with your friends for an evening of music, and you'll see!

EDITOR'S NOTE: Those readers who are unable to find suitable hardwood for this project might want to contact Educational Lumber, Dept. TMEN, P.O. Box 5373, Asheville, North Carolina 28813 for material. This firm has a variety of fine hardwoods, and will send a free catalog upon request. The company will also mill wood to the approximate dimensions, needed for this project . . . but be warned: A°=. 1/4" X 2" X 36" hardwood slat will cost anywhere from $8 to $12, depending on the type of wood and shipping fees. Direct your inquiriesto the attention of Mr. Carr.

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