Contestant Plays “Bones“ on Amateur Hour

From 1953, Akron, Ohio resident George Gilmore plays the bones on the weekly TV show Amateur Hour. For those who don’t know what’s meant by “bones,“ the word is used to describe the pieces of wood or, yes, sometimes actual bones which are played in a manner that makes them sound somewhat reminiscent of castanets. When played during live performances it’s surprising how loud the bones can be; their distinct sound is very much present even when played alongside amplified instruments. For those who’d like to