How to Play a Resonator Guitar

Resonator guitars hold a unique place in the world of stringed instruments. Their distinct look and sound set them apart, making them a favorite for genres like blues, bluegrass, and even some rock. If you're intrigued by their twangy, metallic tones and want to learn how to play one, you're in the right place. This guide will walk you through the essentials of playing a resonator guitar, covering everything from the basics to more advanced techniques.

What Makes Resonator Guitars Unique?

Before we dive into playing, it's crucial to understand what makes resonator guitars stand out. Unlike traditional acoustic guitars, resonators use metal cones or resonators to produce sound, rather than relying solely on the vibration of the wooden top. This design was originally intended to amplify the guitar's volume, making it more audible in large settings. The result is a bright, loud sound that's perfect for cutting through a mix.

Resonator guitars come in various styles, including the biscuit, spider, and tricone designs. Each type has its own tonal characteristics, but they all share the signature metallic resonance that's so beloved by players. If you're thinking about purchasing one, it's worth trying out different models to see which fits your style best.

Choosing the Right Resonator Guitar

When it comes to selecting your resonator guitar, the options might feel overwhelming. But don't worry—finding the right fit is all about understanding your personal playing style and musical goals. There are a few key factors to consider:

• Body Type: Resonator guitars come in round neck and square neck varieties. Round necks are played like traditional guitars, while square necks are typically played lap-style with a slide.
• Resonator Type: As mentioned, there are biscuit, spider, and tricone models. Biscuit resonators are favored for blues, spider for bluegrass, and tricone for a more balanced sound.
• Material: While some resonators have wooden bodies, others are made entirely of metal. Wooden bodies offer warmth and depth, whereas metal bodies give a brighter, more pronounced sound.

Take your time to play a few different models, if possible. The right resonator guitar should feel comfortable and inspire you to play more.

Getting Started with Basic Techniques

Once you've got your hands on a resonator guitar, it's time to start playing. If you're familiar with traditional guitar techniques, you're already partway there. However, resonators do have their quirks.

First, ensure your guitar is properly tuned. Open tunings like Open G (D-G-D-G-B-D) or Open D (D-A-D-F#-A-D) are popular among resonator players, especially for slide guitar. These tunings allow for easier chord shapes and more resonant sounds.

When it comes to picking, many resonator players use fingerpicks or thumb picks to get a sharper, more defined sound. This technique can take some getting used to, but it greatly enhances the resonator's natural volume and clarity.

Mastering Slide Guitar

One of the most iconic techniques in resonator guitar playing is slide guitar. Using a slide—usually a metal or glass tube worn on a finger—you can glide over the strings to create smooth, continuous notes.

• Choosing a Slide: The slide should fit comfortably on your chosen finger (often the pinky or ring finger). The weight and material will affect the sound, so try a few different slides to see which one you prefer.
• Action and Setup: For slide guitar, a higher action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) is often beneficial. It prevents the slide from hitting the frets and allows for cleaner notes.
• Technique: Place the slide lightly on the strings directly above the fret wires. Use your other fingers to lightly mute the strings behind the slide to avoid unwanted noise.

Practicing slide guitar involves a lot of ear training, as you'll need to develop a good sense of pitch and intonation. But once you get the hang of it, slide guitar can add a whole new dimension to your playing.

Incorporating Fingerstyle Techniques

Fingerstyle playing is another technique that resonates beautifully on resonator guitars. This involves using your fingers to pluck the strings, allowing for more intricate and expressive playing.

• Thumb Independence: A key aspect of fingerstyle guitar is developing thumb independence. The thumb often plays a steady bass line, while the other fingers pick out melodies and harmonies.
• Travis Picking: Named after country guitarist Merle Travis, this technique involves alternating bass notes with the thumb while picking melodies with the fingers. It's a staple in resonator guitar playing, especially in bluegrass and country music.
• Arpeggios: Practicing arpeggios (playing the notes of a chord one at a time) can help you get comfortable with finger placement and improve your dexterity.

Fingerstyle playing might feel awkward at first, but it's a rewarding technique that can bring out the full potential of your resonator guitar.

Exploring Resonator Guitar Genres

Resonator guitars are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of musical genres. While they're most commonly associated with blues and bluegrass, they can also add a unique flavor to rock, country, and even metal.

• Blues: The resonator's raw, gritty sound makes it perfect for blues. Artists like Son House and Bukka White have used resonator guitars to create some of the most iconic blues recordings.
• Bluegrass: In bluegrass, resonator guitars often take the form of Dobros, with their bright, clear tones cutting through fast-paced banjo and fiddle parts.
• Rock and Metal: While not as common, resonators can add a unique texture to rock and metal. Bands like Led Zeppelin and Dire Straits have incorporated resonator guitars in their music to great effect.

Experimenting with different genres can help you find your own voice on the resonator guitar. Don't be afraid to break the mold and try something new!

Maintaining Your Resonator Guitar

Resonator guitars require a bit of extra care and maintenance to keep them sounding their best. Here are some tips to help you keep your instrument in top shape:

• Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your guitar after playing to remove any sweat or dirt. Pay special attention to the resonator cone, as it can accumulate dust and affect the sound.
• String Changes: Resonators can be hard on strings, so you'll likely need to change them more frequently than on a standard acoustic. Regularly check for signs of wear and replace strings as needed.
• Setup Adjustments: Periodically check the action and intonation of your guitar. Resonators can be sensitive to changes in humidity, so adjustments may be necessary from time to time.

Proper maintenance ensures that your resonator guitar continues to produce its signature sound for years to come.

Jamming with Other Musicians

One of the joys of playing the resonator guitar is jamming with other musicians. Whether you're in a band or just playing with friends, the resonator's volume and tone can add a unique element to any ensemble.

When jamming with others, be mindful of the resonator's powerful sound. It can easily overpower other instruments, so be sure to listen and blend with the group. Experiment with different tunings and techniques to find what complements the music best.

Collaborating with other musicians can be a great way to improve your skills and explore new musical ideas. It's also a lot of fun!

Final Thoughts

Playing a resonator guitar can open up a world of musical possibilities, from blues to bluegrass and beyond. With its distinctive sound and versatile techniques, this instrument can become a powerful tool in your musical arsenal. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, there's always something new to learn and explore with a resonator. And if you're interested in honing your skills further, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world's top metal guitarists, which can help you incorporate unique techniques into your resonator playing.