A guitar made out of clay? In a fascinating YouTube video, "A guitar made out of clay?" hosted by Dan Erlewine, viewers are introduced to a truly unique instrument: a kiln-fired ceramic guitar. This remarkable piece, which Erlewine admits he has never encountered before, not only captures the eye but also delivers surprisingly good sound quality.
Overview of the Video Content
The video opens with Erlewine showcasing the ceramic guitar, sharing observations about its construction and playability. However, he quickly notes a few issues, such as the first string frequently popping out of the saddle and the bridge being too low. To address this, he plans to create a new bridge that can be raised adequately for better playability and intends to amplify the guitar to highlight its sound. A man from Cleveland originally brought the guitar to Erlewine, hoping to identify its maker and gather more information. The guitar's parts are then examined in detail by Eric Coleman, another expert who helps date the various components. They deduce that the guitar features vintage hardware from the mid-60s, including P90 pickups and unique tuners that give insight into its age.
The Maker’s Story
The narrative deepens as Erlewine uncovers the maker's identity – Jake Kindle Sparkler. Sparkler was a mold shop employee at the Goodyear Tire Company and crafted just a handful of these ceramic guitars, with this likely being one of his first inventions, patented in 1965. Erlewine speaks with Sparkler's family and learns more about the craftsmanship and history behind the instrument, including anecdotes about Sparkler’s passion for creating such unique pieces.
Construction Insights
The video delves into the technical aspects of how the guitar was made. Ceramics experts from Ohio University discuss the process, confirming that the guitar was likely slip-cast from a liquid clay process and fired in an electric kiln. This knowledge contributes to a fuller understanding of how Sparkler ensured the pieces fit together correctly and maintained structural integrity during the firing process.
Restoration Efforts
Towards the end of the video, Erlewine focuses on restoring the guitar, designing a new bridge that accommodates its unique shape and structure. He shares the meticulous work of mixing epoxy to replace the original bridge while respecting Sparkler's craftsmanship.
Conclusion and Community Engagement
This remarkable journey from a unique find in Erlewine's shop to a deeply engaging story of creativity and legacy highlights not just the guitar's aesthetic and auditory attributes, but also the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship behind it. Have any of you ever encountered a similarly unusual instrument or had the chance to restore unique musical gear? Share your thoughts or experiences below!
