How to Play the Dobro

The brand name Dobro is synonymous with resonator guitars. First crafted in the late 1920s, the Dobro's wood body evolved into an acoustic steel guitar with a metal cone called an internal resonator to increase the volume. The distinctive sound of a resonator guitar complements bluegrass, blues and country music. Guitarists can learn to play the Dobro with these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Steel slide
• Metal finger picks
• Plastic thumb pick

1. Decide whether a square-necked or round-necked Dobro interests you. Both types can be played in the usual way, but those interested in bluegrass may prefer a square-necked Dobro lap-style guitar. Resonator guitars work similar to steel slide guitars.
2. Tune the guitar or have it tuned. Guitarists tune Dobros with an open tuning instead of standard tuning. For example, an open G tuning would be D, B, G, D, B, G. Guitarists with previous guitar experience do best on Dobros.
3. Invest in accessories for your Dobro. Although finger picking is acceptable, resonator guitars shine with steel slides and fingerpicks.
4. Locate Dobro tablature. Better known as tabs, this type of sheet music shows notes and finger placement. Many guitarists use tabs as a visual way to read music.
5. Practice tab exercises and scales daily. As you adjust to the different playing style, you'll appreciate your Dobro more.
6. Start with one style of music, such as blues. After you accomplish one style, move on to others. Mixing the styles when beginning to play a Dobro often leads to frustration.
7. Spend some time with an experienced Dobro player or invest in some instructional videos so you can see instructions in practice.

Tips & Warnings

• Dobro guitars are also known as resonator guitars, resophonic guitars and lap style steel guitars.
• A helpful resource is "The Dobro Book" by Stacy Phillips (Oak Publications 00183-4), available at Amazon.