The History and Artistry of National Resonator Instruments [Paperback]

Bob Brozman (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 1993

These beautiful instruments have long been a favorite with musicians. This book is a history, source book and owner's manual for players and fans which covers the facts and figures necessary for serious collectors. In addition to many black and white historical photos, there is also a 32-page color section highlighting models. The book covers the company's full history, specific styles and models of all instruments, Hawaiian, blues, and jazz artists who have used Nationals, a history of their advertising, set-up and maintenance, and much more. Appendixes include serial numbers for all instruments, a company chronology and a Hawaiian Artist Discography.

Product Details

• Paperback: 296 pages
• Publisher: Centerstream Publications (May 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0931759706
• ISBN-13: 978-0931759703
• Product Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #360,668 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars History of National Resonator Instruments, March 14, 2006

By 

Robert I. Dailey "Old 'Mando' Bob" (Detroit, Michigan USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The History and Artistry of National Resonator Instruments (Paperback)

Bob's book gives a great insight into who actually researched, tested, and invented the instruments, where and how they were manufactured and sold, and who played them (blues, jazz, and Hawaiian musicians) the sound and music is terrific. What is really amazing is the craftsmanship of the old world engravers, I would love to own an original Tricone IV or Single Cone IV. This book introduced me to a new side of acoustic music I was not aware of, the readers of this book would do well to purchase Tone Poems III, Vintage Slide and Resonator Instruments played by three gifted musicians, David Grisman, Mike Auldridge, the Bob Brozman, the author of this book.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars History And Artistry of National Resonator Guitars by Bob Brozman, March 11, 2007

By 

Peter G. Thompson - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The History and Artistry of National Resonator Instruments (Paperback)

This book is the standard by which all or any others will be judged. Every aspect of the National resonator guitar world is comprehensively covered in detail. The book starts with the history of the Dopyera family emigrating from Hungary and setting up a musical instrument repair business in L.A.
There follows a very detailed family history covering what each of the family members of the next two generations did, including family feuds.
The history concludes with a chapter on the current owners.
After the formation of the National Guitar Co. we get a comprehensive discussion of its history including detailed early drawings of prototypes of guitars etc. and copies of the patent plans submitted. Every model of instrument made by the company is discussed in detail with reference to the different materials used and the various levels of decoration etc.
A qite sizeable section of the book deals with a number of National and Dobro players including Sol Hoopi,Tampa Red,Son House,Blind Boy Fuller et.al.. The book finishes off with a chapter of prints of early catalogues and advertisements which are fascinating for their historical content. There is also a discussion in the book of setting up the guitars and maintenance etc.
The book is a must for anyone interested in the behind the scenes development of National Guitars. My only criticism is of the section of colour plates contained in the book. While the photographs of the instruments cover a very large range and show the exquisite detail of the decoration on some very rare models,the photos mostly have a dark background that makes them feel oppressive and slightly indistinct. Having said that, the collection of instruments photographed is outstanding;very early tricones,mandolins,tenor guitars,ukes etc.
For anyone interested in the history of or looking at National Guitars
and other instruments this book is indispensible.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read for Resonator buffs, January 9, 2007

By 

Michael J. Paolucci "guitar addict" (West Bridgewater, MA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The History and Artistry of National Resonator Instruments (Paperback)

This book presents a fascinating history of the development and production of National Resonators and a comprehensive catalogue of vintage instruments. Brozman, in addition to being a spectacular player, is a fine writer. That this is a labor of love is readily apparent in his writing and the obvious effort he has expended in researching the subject. The prose is supported amply by numerous black and white photographs and the color plates of vintage Nationals are spectacular.
The only complaint I can offer is that it barely touches on the rebirth of the National company, a significant development especially in light of the high quality instruments they are currently producing. Hopefully this will be addressed in a subsequent edition.