Hammered dulcimer builders

Hammered dulcimer builders. Rick Thum Dulcimers is now a recognized builder for the festival contest prize. We invite you to explore this fascinating world, and if it's all new to you, we I get into suggestions for electrics more on the electric dulcimer builder's page, so I'll let this go as it is. Brand: The Kentucky Sound; Model: Mountain Dulcimer. 00 away from free shipping Only $495. In my experience these instruments often have a very If you want to buy one dulcimer in the hope that you'll be satisfied with it long term, you should probably consider at least a three octave. We even provide dulcimer parts - machine heads and wood parts - for builders of all skill levels. Sounds great, New strings, clean. With permission from the Meet the Builders. Most other builders tell you to keep your dulcimer humidified in the winter because of the wood shrinkage problem. His workshop is known as ~Cloud Dusty Strings has been lovingly handcrafting hammered dulcimers in Seattle, WA since 1979. Hammer Time. Arizona. In fact, some players find a three octave dulcimer easier to learn with than a 2 ½ octave, because it requires less re-arranging of tunes to make them "fit" the instrument. These dulcimers are in a traditional hourglass shape Unless requested otherwise, they all feature scroll heads, heart shaped sound holes, four string set up, nickel/silver fretted fingerboards with strum hollow, quality Grover tuning machines and solid I have experience designing for Master Works Hammered Dulcimers, Folkcraft Mountain Dulcimers, and New Harmony Mountain Dulcimers. The D670 is our ultimate chromatic hammered dulcimer. Maker of Hammered and Mountain dulcimers. An accomplished instrument builder and teacher, he has taught workshops at Gerry is one of those builders. 00 Select Options; Swift Compact Chromatic Hammered Dulcimer Package $ 1,650. My dad designed and built himself an instrument. The younger generation learned from the older generation how The hammered dulcimer probably originated in the Middle East about 900 A. Compare Dusty Dulcimers. Indeed, the instrument That’s the image one conjures up after hearing the Appalachian mountain dulcimer. Folkcraft Instruments has been crafting handmade mountain dulcimers since 1968. (Yes we are still in business 2024) The Appalachian mountain dulcimer is a true American instrument dating back to the early 1800s in southwestern Virginia. Powered by GoDaddy GoCentral The hourglass dulcimer above has a Cedar soundboard, Cherry back and sides and Wenge fingerboard Thanks for your interest in my Mountain Dulcimers. Read more >>> The Best Hammered Dulcimers Reviewed for 2024. 66 Strings: 17 course treble/16 course bass: Range: D3 to F6: Soundboard To most modern Americans, the hammered dulcimer is a new and unfamiliar instrument. In this first Episode I will be building James Jones H3 Hammered Dulcimer Playing Hammers (1 set walnut, cherry or maple) Opens in a new window or tab. Pre-Owned. L. You'll see why McSpadden dulcimers are played by entertainers, champion folk music artist and people all over the world. Musical Instruments. $250. Like any stringed instrument, the dulcimer does have a learning curve. Tonewoods used for dulcimer soundboards include spruce, mahogany, The piano dulcimer squeezes 3. Training in hammer technique, composing skills, music theory, practice habits, scales and chords, and much more. Half Hourglass and half Elm Leaf shapes, the Most of the hammered dulcimer builders can also provide hammers. The instrument came out beautifully and sounds wonderful. Unclaimed: Claim this business . While the Chromatic Series is pattern-based like the traditional tuning scheme, the Piano Dulcimer is laid out in a more linear fasion, modeled after the keys on a piano. Start by downloading the strum hollow pattern and fret scale on our website (see onlineEXTRAS). showroom@songofthewood. The hammered dulcimer is referred to as “hammered” in reference to the small mallets (referred to as hammers) that players use to strike the dulcimer strings. He has crafted a workshop which describes many of the suggestions you sent to me. Revels Music. Hammers are typically made of wood (often hard woods, such as maple, cherry, padauk, oak, walnut, or some other hard wood). It used to be written with the characters 洋 琴 (lit. Native Kentuckian Warren A. 00 Folkcraft® Black Walnut Hourglass Dulcimer Kit, 27" VSL. In Since 1975 Jerry Read Smith has been building some of the most sought after hammered dulcimers in the industry. Jim Miller has been playing and performing traditional music for the past 47 years. Comes with several sets of hammers, many music books, tuning wrench, original literature, lots of extras. Buying a hammered dulcimer from Red Cow Music could not be easier. But in this article, we focus on how to play the traditional mountain dulcimer. If you ever need to replace it you will know what Melrose Dulcimer Zoom Jam – Every Friday! Join us online for the. A hammered dulcimer with 15 treble courses and 15 bass courses (known as a 15/15), measures about 21 in. Search Contents and Sheet Music. Mountain Dulcimer Sellers. Hudson Hammered Dulcimers-- Jerry Hudson started this company in Whitney, Tx. How to Build a Hammered Dulcimer, by Philip Mason. This is in part due to the sympathetic vibration of all the other strings of the Dulcimer Options. I only got the plans after Thanksgiving, so it was a bit of a time crunch, but I figured it would be a fairly The diatonic nature of the hammered dulcimer may limit certain key options, but skilled players often utilize techniques to navigate various keys effectively, expanding the instrument’s versatility. Guitar~Mandolin~Uke . The internal bracing system is more elaborate and sophisticated than our In the hammered dulcimer, the player uses small hammers or mallets to strike the strings, creating a percussive and melodic effect. While they share some similarities, they both have very distinct characteristics and playing techniques that set them apart. The dulcimer is believed to have originated in the Middle East and has a rich history spanning several centuries. Show More. Craigslist or eBay can actually be a problem if you don't really know the different builders, because the builders and the instruments are all so different in sound quality and general quality. Masterworks. About the Seller. This is the first time for me to build an instrument from scratch. Previous owner purchased this new at our shop in 1989. Some people use a ratio like 12/11 to describe the size of a Dulcimer. Maybe you’ve heard about a wonderful musical instrument called a hammered dulcimer — but have you ever heard one played? Ted Yoder is an expert player, and has a great story about how this old, traditional instrument gave him the rare opportunity to meet a genuine rock star. The hammered dulcimer is a trapezoid-shaped stringed instrument played with wooden mallets called “hammers”. Rare recorded music and instructional materials available for purchase. Allen has been making wooden stringed musical instruments including hammered dulcimers full time since 1977. I cannot say enough good The D500 is the ideal hammered dulcimer for the budget-minded player who doesn't need a lot of extra notes, but wants a fully-chromatic 3-octave dulcimer with a deep, rich tone and beautiful solid-wood construction. Your price may be more or less depending on how much materials cost you and what you have already at home. Accessed: 29 October 2024. Larger dulcimers are no harder to play than smaller ones. The trapezoidal yangqin (simplified Chinese: 扬琴; traditional Chinese: 揚琴; pinyin: yángqín; Jyutping: joeng4 kam4) is a Chinese hammered dulcimer, likely derived from the Iranian santur or the European dulcimer. Mitchell, Howie Mitchell, Dulcimer Construction, Dulcimer Making, Folk-Legacy Records, Dulcimer -- Construction, Dulcimer Publisher Folk-Legacy Records Collection manuals_sony; manuals; additional_collections Language English Rights Likely still in copyright by Folk-Legacy Records Item Size 20. We are proud to offer Gerry Heinrich's mountain dulcimers in our shop. John Sackenheim had begun compiling that in the late 1990s. 17 No. hammered dulcimer is much more than "just a folk instrument. Alabama. Let’s custom-design your dulcimer today! Tim Stuart Owner/Craftsman The hammered dulcimer is a wonderful instrument, and a very accessible one, at that. The grain on the red spruce top is fine, straight and parallel. The cold, on the whole, won’t cause so much damage to your dulcimer; however, the moisture and humidity in the air can absolutely cause damage! Read More Why the Word ‘Hammered’ In this brief article, we take a look at hammered dulcimer history. Photo courtesy of David Mitchell. In fact folks who can't play can usually find someone who can, so they can compare the sound. This model features standard fifth-interval hammered dulcimer tuning, plus an extended bass range (down to G2) and some additional chromatic notes to enable playing in any key. "foreign zither"), but over time the first character changed to 揚 (also pronounced "yáng Mountain dulcimer lessons in-person and long distance by Zoom. Mandolin Family. Hey Howie, It’s Been A While Vol. Yes, they are different. He has also taught guitar making, and invented his own version of Marimbula. After all, the soft sounds of a dulcimer are what attracts many to the instrument in the first place. " It has a gorgeous and captivating sound, is easy to learn, and can be The Hammer Dulcimer is one of the oldest musical instruments in the world, dating back somewhere between 3000 and 5000 years, and originating in the Middle East, probably in ancient Persia. This section will provide an exhaustive list of tools required for the project, including saws, drills, measuring tools, and safety equipment. We offer 2 sizes of dulcimer stand kits. More on that later! United Kingdom: If we trace the roots of the North American hammered dulcimer, we travel to the UK where its ancestors can still be found in Scotland, Canada: The hammered dulcimer also spread throughout Canada with the early settlers. Appalachian (or mountain) dulcimers are instruments with a long and proud history. ” Throughout the the hammered dulcimer to distinguish it from the lap, or Appalachian dulcimer (a strummed 4 string instrument originating in the Appalachian mountains in the 1800’s). " The Winston-Salem Dulcimer Festival for 2024 is on! We are working hard to get everything in place for our traditional date, the first Saturday in May (that's May 4th this year). The information in these pages will give you lots of details about what models I offer and my dulcimer building Hammered Dulcimer. We offer a variety of models and price levels to suit everyone from beginner to professional, I offer 10 different Custom Hammered Dulcimers available in the following ranges; 12/11, 15/14, 16/15 and the traditional Chromatic Custom Models 3/13/12 Travel, 3/17/17, 3/16/15/8, 3/16/18/10, 4/19/18/10, and 4/19/21/10. I have been designing and crafting primarily Hammer Dulcimers for over 45 years now. Showroom Phone: 828-669-7675 Most people who play the hammered dulcimer experience some variation of this problem at one point or another. Cook built his first dulcimer in 1979, and has gone on to build hammered dulcimers. This is the gauge of that string. To place an order please contact us. I have built lots of all solid dulcimers. Pricing: Custom Quilted Covers A yangqin on a stand. This year, Sam Rizzetta, Nicholas Blanton and Tina Bergmann will travel from afar to teach a variety of workshops and perform in the instructors' concert. Web. Oak construction with cedar top . The hammered dulcimer was around long before America was even a glimmer in George Washington’s eye. In other dulcimer variations, such as the mountain dulcimer, the strings are plucked or strummed with the fingers or a pick. This poses a problem for hammered dulcimer builders, but there are several ways to get around it: 1). The word “dulcimer” was originally Graeco-Roman and means “sweet song” (Latin “dulcis” means sweet, and Greek “melos” means song). Final Thoughts on How to Amplify a Dulcimer. We'd love to have you! By Appointment 7 days a week. The type of wood a dulcimer is made from is another thing you should check before making a purchase. Jess began performing on the hammered dulcimer at the Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View, Arkansas in the 1980s, where he was the featured hammered dulcimer player on the annual Christmas show for several years. Usually drawn or painted decorations on This issue of Dulcimer Players News features hammered and mountain dulcimer player and builder Berch. Detailed prints show you how to build every part needed to build this instrument. Most dulcimers on the market are made from hardwood like walnut, poplar, cherry, and sassafras or soft wood like cedar or spruce. 00 Also, while the dulcimer is laid out for a right-handed lead, For a right-handed lead, it is best to have the bass on the right, where you start more common ascending chords and scales, it would be perfectly reasonable to build a "left-handed" design, reversing the placement of the bridges. Shannon can fit any builder and model dulcimer! Cover patterns for most models in stock! Each cover is a unique work of art! HOW TO ORDER. Melrose Dulcimer ZoomJam. A good selection of dulcimers is on hand at I thought I'd film the making of Hammered Dulcimer # 26. If you're really strapped for cash, track down a new or used Meadowlark or a used student dulcimer from one of the other builders, and have at it. Hand-built from the Finest American Materials. The tuning keys are Grover Geared in gold or silver. owlmountainmusic. He played and shared the tale at TEDxDayton 2020. Like most old school Santoor, the Sadeghi Goldar Santoor comes in a trapeze-like shape. I am a classically trained trumpeter as well as a National Champion Hammered Dulcimer player. McSpadden Dulcimers McSpadden Dulcimers specialty is the mountain dulcimer; our five full-t If you want to buy one dulcimer in the hope that you'll be satisfied with it long term, you should probably consider at least a three octave. The hammered dulcimer is set before the musician, who in more traditional styles may sit cross-legged on the floor, or in a more modern style may stand or sit at a wooden support with legs. In 1976 Chris Foss saw a busker playing a hammered dulcimer on the streets of Key Beginner's guide to hammered dulcimers, general dulcimer info, & specifics about how we build them. The woods are top quality and highly figured. My Cart: 0 item(s) Your Shopping Cart Is Empty. Building on the popularity of the D650, the D670 adds a feature that players have long been yearning for - the ability to play those low, soul-satisfying super bass notes on the right side as well as the left. Once you have cut out all the parts, use the assembly instructions to put all the pieces together. It spread from there across North Africa and was brought into Europe by the Spanish Moors during the 12th century A. Join All evidence seems to indicate that the Appalachian dulcimer dates back no more than 200 years and that Bibles refer to the hammered type. Its visual beauty lies in its direct simplicity. Just added: Marina Albero, recently relocated to Seattle from I prefer to build my dulcimers one at a time, with design input from the customer. com or text or leave a message at 740-262-2660 "For over 40 years, I have been carefully handcrafting mountain dulcimers from hand selected solid American tone woods. Sandbridge Relaxed Week Hammered Dulcimer Retreat with Ken Kolodner & Mary Lynn Michal. We accept checks or credit cards. While I have incorporated modern improvements, such as . The instrument is played with two light-weight beaters called hammers that are shaped like long-handled spoons and are used to strike the strings. Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire. We With three decades of instrument-building experience and ingenuity behind it, the Spears hammer dulcimer is a highly sought-after item. Later that summer he bought a dulcimer kit, put it together, and taught himself to play. The mountain dulcimer is an invention of Scottish and Irish pioneers. We hope your Dusty Strings hammered dulcimer will provide you This is a hammered dulcimer hand built by the. A 12/11 or a 13/12 would be a 2 1/2 octave. Never been played. The frame is made from durable maple laminate, faced with walnut. Wild Acoustic Music Co is, indeed, a very special place. It consists of line drawings and an easy-to-read text, and Mason offers two plans from which to You can build a hammered dulcimer with a clear, brilliant voice from readily-available materials and using building skills that are little different from those required to build a box. Build the dulcimer in a controlled humidity environment with the wood at a stable moisture content before gluing to the frame (Masterworks, Dusty Strings, older Songbird Warbler and Whippoorwill models) then make it the buyer’s The role of Mr. The dulcimer is 42″ Our Hammered Dulcimer features a solid mahogany soundboard which provides a warm, rich tone. Some clubs are small, some are large – but each is committed to advancing the tradition of dulcimer playing in communities around the country. These pioneers settled in the Appalachia area of North We'd love to have you! By Appointment 7 days a week. Beriyth D312 Hammered Dulcimer - Natural - 1985. I bought my first Hammered Dulcimer kit fro Dale Ward, dulcimer builder - Pigeon Forge, TN. 580-847-2822. I started building in a basement workshop I set up in a house I rented back in the early 70's. Right away David realized he was looking for a different sound than the kit, so in November of that year he built Dan Loomis of Nashville, Indiana is the builder of Crooked Creek Guitars and other odd instruments. com . Consequently, no two instruments I have created thus far are exactly alike. Here's a link to a wonderful article about Bob and Janita Baker, who make the fine dulcimers featured here at Wildwood Music. Only $40. Most of the videos on this channel feature the Playing the dulcimer involves striking or plucking the strings to produce sound. We Jim Miller Musician - Performer - Workshop Leader. They can also be made Russell Cook is a hammered dulcimer builder and player from Oklahoma, United States. The soundboard wood establishes the essence of the sound signature. When did you start playing and what were your first influences? My first instrument was actually the recorder in school. Inexpensive Appalachian mountain dulcimers and easily assembled dulcimer kits and amateur instrument builders. It is possible that hammered dulcimers were played even earlier than this in Ireland, where they were called “tympanons. Next › The Hammered Dulcimer in America by Nancy Groce. We combine a variety of selected materials to make musical instruments with superior tone quality and exceptional tuning stability. He gives a web site and an email address where one can ask questions or get more information but Blue Lion Instruments Builders of fine, hand-crafted, mountain dulcimers and acoustic guitars. If you are humidifying your home for comfort, that’s fine, but don’t do it for the dulcimer’s sake. _____ Chris We all do better when we all do better. I don't have one to sell, but I can offer some advice. The sound quality of a hammer dulcimer is dependent upon five factors: the quality of the builder’s art, the striking surface of the hammers, and the performance style of the player. It is built with a metal internal frame which is why the instrument has held together so well for 42 years. These dulcimers are in a traditional hourglass shape Unless requested otherwise, they all feature scroll heads, heart shaped sound holes, four string set up, nickel/silver fretted fingerboards with strum hollow, quality Grover tuning machines and solid wood tops and backs. Lee Spears has built more than 2,100 hammer Hammered dulcimers are known for their sustain, or how long the notes ring after they are struck. Round Family in Grandville Michigan. The role of Mr. Contact David at: 654 Acorn Lane . If you are working with a different builder or craftsman, please consult with me and your craftsman so that I can determine their cutting and engraving capabilities and design according to their specifications. It is good if you just want to build one and not worry about why it is built that way. They began handcrafting and playing dulcimers in 1980. Crooked Creek Guitars features 2, 3, or 4-string creations from frying pans, oil cans, ammunition cans, cigar boxes, canoe paddles, garden shovels, and more. The dulcimer allows for both melodic playing and chordal accompaniment. My goal is making Appalachian dulcimers of superb beauty, projection, voice and action. If you want a great sounding, durable dulcimer that will stay in tune, and last into the next century, build it of plywood. However, Bonnie Carol dulcimers look and sound more Home of the hammered dulcimer and bodhran, features product for sale with images and description. Kentucky™ Dulcimers. Howie Mitchell, known for adding the 6½ fret to the mountain dulcimer, also made and played hammered dulcimer. 00. Bowed Instruments and Bass Viol. Davis does not explain why he uses the specific angles of the dulcimer. We believe you’ll struggle with tuning a lot less if the dulcimer is allowed to just adapt to the environment. 00 See Dulcimer. The Hammered Dulcimer of choice since 1978! email us at info@davidsdulcimers. 00 away from free shipping The small are ideal for standard spinet hammered dulcimers. Plans for 4 or 5 octave Whamdiddle Dulcimer $250. $65. Made In: United States. More on that later! United Kingdom: If we In December I put my guitar build away for a bit to try to build a hammered dulcimer for my wife for Christmas. We're proud to offer a professional quality dulcimer at an affordable price. It is heavy (35lb) even for a hammered dulcimer. Sponsored. Each dulcimer is signed, dated and numbered. The instructions are clear and well written. About the Artists Widely regarded as one of the best-known hammered dulcimer players in the world and a well-regarded Appalachian style fiddler, Ken Kolodner has toured for many years with some of the top players in the U. to discuss the specifications for your custom dulcimer. But if you find yourself competing to be heard, amplification may be necessary Regardless, neither type of dulcimer player gets enough love from the music-making or music-appreciating public, so let’s take a look at these instruments. While playing around on a hammer dulcimer made from a kit belonging to his brother-in-law, Russell Cook’s imagination was stirred. In fact, the hammers I use the most are the very light-weight custom double-sided hammers offered by Master Works. 21. The commonly accepted theory about the Buyer's Guide for Hammered Dulcimer - From Riverboat Music(tm), A friend reminded me that many dulcimer-builders take their ware to festivals, where folks can try them out. Long-time woodworker-turned-luthier Rick Gooden is the Company Founder and lead designer of the New Harmony Dulcimer line. For the dulcimer player who desires a larger bodied, longer scale instrument, I offer the 80 series. John Edward Thomas sold his dulcimers from the back of a mule cart or through mail order with some sold as far away as England. While some believe that the instrument dates back to the times of Mesopotamia, which was somewhere around 1600-911 BC, and Babylonia, others think that this instrument is so old that Retired from making new instruments, Hammered Dulcimer repair and refurbishment only, plus accessories. $35. Be transported as he weaves endless imagination with virtuosic performances. The hammered dulcimer (also called the hammer dulcimer) is a percussion-stringed instrument which consists of strings typically stretched over a trapezoidal resonant sound board. Shop now! Quality Craftsmanship Best Sound Berg Dulcimers No Laminate. It appeared The original German scheitholt was converted to a dulcimer by reducing the number of strings from nine to 3-5 and by using a larger sound box. History Another approach to a fully chromatic dulcimer is the Piano Dulcimer tuning scheme invented by long-time dulcimer designer and builder Sam Rizzetta and licensed to Dusty Strings. Itt’s important to know how the weather can impact on your hammered dulcimer. To embark on your DIY journey, you need the right tools and materials. J and K Dulcimers-- Jim's excellent reputation as a hammered dulcimer builder is well-deserved. Not only will you end up with a unique and custom-made instrument, but you’ll also have a deeper understanding of how it works. Kentucky™ dulcimers are an updated version of the dulcimers made by legendary builder J. While most aspects of dulcimer building allow for variations, the fret board must be precisely built. I have adopted " Instruments Of Change" because it fits what's happening on so many levels. Electronic Tuners. The house sat on 3 acres of land with streams in both the front and back yard. In the hammered dulcimer, the player uses small hammers or mallets to strike the strings, creating a percussive and melodic effect. It plays very well and sounds great due to Criteria for Purchasing a Mountain Dulcimer . Pigeon River String Instruments-- Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Mr. But when I first heard the hammered dulcimer played by a guy busking on the street in Key West, FL January 1, 1976, I knew I had to get my hands on one. or Best Offer +$80. along the bottom rail, 15–18 in. I thought it was the coolest sound I’d ever heard, and he was even playing my kind of tunes! and this extends to the dulcimers we build. March 23, 2024 Virtual. Hi Denise, I am not sure what the best paint would be. The two instruments have nothing in common except their names, and that they are both usually classified as members of the zither family. And the bass dulcimer, tuned a whole octave below a standard, is also growing in popularity. Our kits have solid wood fretboards, geared tuning machines Our dulcimer kits can easily be assembled with Elmer’s glue, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a hammer. In fact, some players find a three octave dulcimer easier to learn with than a 2 ½ octave, because it requires less re-arranging of tunes to make From a set of hammers to a complete build-your-own kit, all parts are pre-cut for easy assembly. Michael C. jamesinstruments (428) 100%. Hickok and the ODPC in the revival of the hammered dulcimer in America, is documented in the Smithsonian publication, The Hammered Dulcimer in America by Nancy Groce, published in 1983. Mary Lynn Michal received a master’s degree Though it has roots in the folk music traditions of many different cultures, hammered dulcimer is much more than "just a folk instrument. These provide the ultimate in control in how your final instrument looks and performs, but may not be for everyone. Hammered Dulcimer and Trumpet Videos by Mark Alan Wade. • Solid surface to Song of the Wood Store Page. The Hammered Dulcimer has a beautiful, rich, full sound and has been used throughout the world for many centuries, originating in the Middle East. Compare sound clips, prices and features of Dusty Strings hammered dulcimers. Regular price $305. Sharon Broyles Dulcimer Instructor Performer. Sign In; Create Account; Orders; My Account; Signed in as: filler@godaddy. When played (typically on the lap), the dulcimer exudes soft, sweet sounds. As always, the instruments I produce are innovative and offer an alternative to traditional design and production. Orders; This book contains the basic instructions on how to build a 15/14 hammered dulcimer. Bennington OK 74723. Dedicated to the Instruments and Music of Sam Rizzetta. But call me a Philistine, give me plywood any day. The standard dulcimer I make is a 16/15, so has a greater range than the usual 12/12 played by many in the UK, but is not much larger and probably lighter than most 12/12’s. Meeting Time/Location History and Origin of the Mountain Dulcimer / Appalachian Dulcimer. The hammered dulcimer is rectangular or trapezoidal in shape and has sets of multiple strings with a range of up to three octaves. The Tall Stand Kit holds the front edge of the dulcimer 37”. I didn’t make this but it is well made with little flaws. Sam Rizzetta Online. He has more than forty years of experience in professional furniture and dulcimer making. The author began this study in these pockets of surviving folk culture, hoping to find rich rewards in dulcimer lore and traditions, and soon discovered that the dulcimer is well remembered in many other The role of Mr. Unclaimed: Claim this business. 4 thoughts on “ Dulcimer Finishes ” Doug Berch says: January 15, 2012 at 10:37 PM. To find festivals near you, try the following link on the Everything Dulcimer Mountain Dulcimer R. Short biographical sketches are given for these Each dulcimer has four strings with a double melody string for optimum noting qualities. A good selection of dulcimers is on hand at Explore our wide range of hammered dulcimers for sale. 00 Canada: The hammered dulcimer also spread throughout Canada with the early settlers. " e-WV: The West Virginia Encyclopedia. Alaska. Reseller of second hand refurbished Mountain Dulcimers. 812-372-8576. The hammered dulcimer once flourished in this United States. The Gardners invite you Tuning charts vary, and are specific to each builder and model of the hammered dulcimer. A 16/15 or a 15/14 would be a 3 octave, an 18/17 or so would be 3 1/2 octaves, etc. I hated it. Some mundane fundamentals of technique may seem mindless and appear to need no attention. Hammered Dulcimers and Zithers. Rick Gooden. Home of hammered dulcimer makers Chris & Melanie Foss of Muscatine, Iowa. Designed in collaboration with Sam Rizzetta, a highly respected inventor, builder and player of hammered dulcimers since the This detailed plan/drawing is a full scale size pattern for building your very own 12/11 hammered dulcimer. from top to bottom, and 2 ¾ in. com. Dulcimer Kit - 12/11 Size: - The pin blocks, sides and internal braces are made of hard maple. Regular price $16. Sign This was a ton of fun to build. 00 Select options This product has multiple variants. Because we The additional charge for such special requests is 20%, and please allow 2 weeks for building your hammers from scratch. When we are working on them, we are constantly The hammered dulcimer (also called the hammer dulcimer) To fill in the gaps, many modern dulcimer builders include extra short bridges at the top and bottom of the soundboard, where extra strings are tuned to some or all of the missing pitches. and is related to the much older psaltery. The Western North Carolina Dulcimer Collective is a member-supported group of players of mountain and hammered dulcimers, and those who enjoy listening to dulcimers and/or playing other traditional instruments with them. Online video lessons and Skype lessons and classes. , Lake Odessa, MI. Find the perfect instrument for your mountain dulcimer music. A fourth-generation musician, Bergmann began playing music at age eight, learning the mountain dulcimer from her mother in the aural tradition and learning the hammered Welcome to the new face of Stephens Lutherie. So much has changed in the past two years that a new motto seemed appropriate. To most people around the world, this is the real dulcimer. S. While some believe that the instrument dates back to the times of Mesopotamia, which was somewhere around 1600-911 BC, and Babylonia, others think that this instrument is so old that Finely crafted hammered dulcimers and hammer dulcimer music from North Carolina luthier Lee Spears. May has spent his lifetime working with wood. That is part of the point, they give our dulcimers a distinctive, elegant look. The exact dimensions and shapes are given to you so you can make your own masterpiece of an instrument. 4:00-5:30pm (Eastern) Drop in or stay a while! Monthly In-Person Jam! Find Melrose Dulcimers on YOUTUBE! Our next in-person gathering will be held at the Melrose Center, 307 State Road 26, Melrose FL on Wednesday, October 30, 11am-2pm (always the LAST Wednesday). Additionally, you’ll learn about the types of wood that work best for this project, ensuring durability and stability. Here is number 98, another fine Minstrel Modern Mountain Dulcimer (below): ~♥~ The Carty Model. Bill of Materials (PDF) Would you like to add a damper system to your vary, and are specific to each builder and model of the hammered dulcimer. There are simply too many strings on the darned thing for tuning to be smooth and easy every time, and it can be quite frustrating when you can get one side or the other of the treble bridge in tune, but not both sides at the same time. 5M The hammered dulcimer is also known as “hammer dulcimer”. We provide a wide selection of hammered dulcimers for sale, as well as all the necessary accessories. ” This particular hammered dulcimer is a 16/1 The Hammered Dulcimer, H. His Whether you're new to the hammered dulcimer and not quite sure how to start, or you haven't played in a while and could use a dose of inspiration, or you play all the time and can think of nothing better than to hang out and jam with other dulcimer players for a weekend, the Spring Fling (Hammered Dulcimer) Rendezvous could be exactly what you beautiful one of a kind handcrafted hammered dulcimer. The hammered dulcimer is also avaiable as a DIY Kit you can build yourself! Hammered Dulcimer. What scales for hammered Music Instruments makers / Luthiers Directory / Microphones makers ; Inscription 100% free - Information ; Contact x Hammered dulcimer luthier USA - Mountain dulcimer luthier USA x Click on yours states:. Jess is the 2013 Though it has roots in the folk music traditions of many different cultures, hammered dulcimer is much more than "just a folk instrument. However, for over 100 years many players in Western Canada play the Ukrainian tsimbaly. Early varieties were rather simple, having The hammered dulcimer, an ancestor of the piano, has changed significantly in the last 15 years. 00 shipping. Email us, and we can discuss your needs. Our goal is a full-sized, long-lasting, easily-tuned Dusty Strings D10 hammered dulcimer: 12/11 courses, solid mahogany construction. Even people who know much about American music often confuse the hammered dulcimer with the three- or four-stringed “mountain” or “plucked” dulcimer. Like mountain (or “Appalachian”) dulcimers, hammered dulcimers are known for their soft, sweet sounds. Check out the deal on 17/16 Hammered Dulcimer KIT at Musicmakers. And the learning curve for a hammered dulcimer may be steeper than that of the mountain dulcimer. along the top rail, 42 in. It has different variations and names builders whose love of wood, fine craftsmanship, and music results in some of the finest hammered dulcimers and harps available. The Hammered Dulcimer is a fantastic instrument and a joy to play. By the 1930s it was nearly extinct, but in isolated areas along the Michigan-Ohio border it has survived to the present day. Harp Guitars. Designed in collaboration with Sam Rizzetta, a highly respected inventor, builder and player of hammered dulcimers since the 1960s, these instruments have his signature asymmetrical design, which places the treble bridge perpendicular to the strings for ease of playing. Mountain Dulcimer. such as photos and details of the restoration or building process, and sometimes that information is I make these dulcimers at my shop in Crestwood, Kentucky (where Mountain Dulcimers are the official State instrument) Brand New items are sold by an authorized dealer or original builder and include all original packaging. First thing would be to find out what type of finish was already on the dulcimer and then research what is compatible. The name originates from the Latin word dulcis and the Greek word melos, which translates to “Sweet Tune. The makers of this fascinating piece stuck to the old ways of crafting traditional Santoors. $600. Product Search. Kentucky between the years 1870 to 1930. Hailed by Pete Seeger as “the best hammered dulcimer player I’ve heard in my life,” Tina Bergmann has been performing concerts, and teaching workshops and private lessons from an early age. The Instructors. To order a custom dulcimer please email ron@gibsondulcimers. They do, however, reflect the traditional style and construction techniques of the mountainous region from whence I came. The ODPC created a market for the instrument and builders started building again. With a background in music, acoustics, electronics, New design hammered dulcimer. 765-720-7373 dulcimerbysharon@gmail. Learn more. Also, while the dulcimer is laid out for a right-handed lead, For a right-handed lead, it is best to have the bass on the right, where you start more common ascending chords and scales, it would be perfectly reasonable to build a "left-handed" design, reversing the placement of the Internationally recognized as one of the two or three leading builders of the traditional Appalachian dulcimer (or . 00 Select Options; Chickadee Hammered Dulcimer Package $ 524. Nonsuch Online Spring Hammered Dulcimer Workshop Day. Thousands of dulcimers were produced in American homes, shops, and Since our first mountain dulcimer in 1962, we have developed dulcimers. I did and the sound is quite amazing! I was able to build mine for around $70. Gracious and professional. com: Mountain & hammered dulcimer, autoharp, & bowed psaltery. The group meets once per month at the Folk Art Center in Asheville to share tunes and information. Handcrafting Hammered Dulcimers since 1992 he 17/16/8 Finch Chromatic dulcimer is available with Most other builders tell you to keep your dulcimer humidified in the winter because of the wood shrinkage problem. For 20 plus years we built hammered dulcimers with round sound holes, and they were very generic looking. Since the instrument does not have mechanical dampers, builders have attempted to reduce decay times by changing bridge caps, slotting bridges, reducing weight and stiffness, and reducing soundboard impedance. Forums » Discussions » General mountain dulcimer or music discussions » Page » Dale Ward, dulcimer builder - Pigeon Forge, TN @marg 2 years ago 616 posts (Dale had a shop in Pigeon Forge in the 1990s ) Thanks for the information - could it be Dale didn't make/sell many dulcimers, that it's hard to Since our first mountain dulcimer in 1962, we have developed dulcimers. And his 50+ years as a woodworker gives him the skills needed to properly craft these instruments. Some Hammered The hammered dulcimer produces a captivating blend of melodic and percussive sounds, making it a versatile and engaging instrument. Over time, dulcimer builders have experimented with different shapes, sound-hole patterns and strings. 12-3 string courses34 1/2 (width at bottom) Colorado Springs-based National Hammered Dulcimer Champion Joshua Messick breathes new life into the ancient and enchanting hammered dulcimer. The sound quality of a hammer dulcimer is dependent upon five factors: the wood of the soundboard, the design of the instrument, the quality of the builder’s art, the striking surface of the hammers, and the performance style of the player. schedule. Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials. com The national instrument of Iran, although it is also found in the traditional music of Kashmir and Jammu, the Santoor or Hammered Dulcimer is a very old and intriguing instrument. Spectacular music for your special occasion! CHELSEA & DEXTER, MI & ON-LINE LESSONS Hammered Dulcimer. Showroom Phone: 828-669-7675 The hammered dulcimer, an ancestor of the piano, has changed significantly in the last 15 years. The list grew so large and had so many additions that it Song of the Wood Store Page. David will be glad. Called “a world class instrumentalist” by Sing Out!, Kolodner has more than 20 recordings. Once you Dulcimer Tall Stand Kit. Our focus is on the music and acoustic instruments usually found in Americana, bluegrass, and folk music, but you will also find acoustic If there’s one thing that 20 years and building over 8,000 hammered dulcimer has taught me it is that the anti plywood bias is nothing but mythology. We also steadfastly refused to put rosettes over our sound holes because they are a really bad idea See more Prussia Valley Dulcimers features many quality musical instruments, including Prussia Valley dulcimers, Tacoma guitars, Masterworks hammered dulcimers, mid-Missouri mandolins, and other fine acoustic instruments. Medium sized hammered dulcimer. 3 (1991) by Erik Blomstedt. Grassroots has been producing hammered dulcimers of exceptional quality and fine detail since 1976. Because of its ancient origins, the Hammered Dulcimer has traveled to many parts of the world, and has many different forms, tunings, and traditions. Unless you’re performing in a public venue, odds are you may not need to amplify your mountain or hammered dulcimer. The true hammer dulcimer is a close relative to the psaltery, the chief difference being that the psaltery is usually plucked and the dulcimer is usually struck. Deep chiming sound with tons of sustain. He gives a web site and an email address where one can ask questions or get more information but In this series I am building a hammered dulcimer. Carve out the sound holes and install the bridges, which will hold the strings at varying lengths to produce different Dulcimer Kit - 12/11 Size. Now, thanks to a collaboration between dulcimer builders David Beede and Terry McCafferty, there is a whole new class of dulcimer available, tuned two full octaves below a standard dulcimer. Unclaimed. Shop Our Catalog . These covers not only keep the dust off your hammered dulcimer when you are not playing, but they also help stabilize your tuning! See below for ordering and inquiries. By building one yourself, you gain a profound appreciation for its craftsmanship and the magic it brings to music. JRS Professional Introductory and Professional Recording model Hammered Dulcimers are bespoke instruments, built to order specifically for the customer who Dulcimer maker, luthier, and musician: custom Appalachian mountain dulcimers for sale made using the best of traditional and contemporary lutherie. The story features excerpts from his letters and interviews through the past 50 years, plus an update on what he is doing now. His furniture and mountain dulcimers have been featured in Popular Woodworking, Fine Woodworking, Woodwork magazine, Kentucky “Killer Technique: Hammered Dulcimer" is a book that uniquely focuses on improving the everyday elements of dulcimer playing. On our diagrams, we also include a number beside the note name of a string. We're happy to build a custom mountain Hammered Dulcimer Variety Hammer Dulcimers come in lots of different sizes. The hammered dulcimer, which is also known as the santoor is an intriguing instrument that can produce beautiful and stimulating sound. Thomas of Knott Co. For the past 9 years Zachary has been learning how to Full size blueprints and complete assembly instructions for our 17/16 Hammered Dulcimer. Winter is a particularly risky time of year because cold outside air can’t hold much moisture, and when it’s brought inside your living space and heated, the relative humidity drops - sometimes to dangerously low levels. The soundboard is the heart of the hammered dulcimer and plays a crucial role in producing sound. and easy to build, it answered the pioneer’s need for music on the western frontier. A Builder's Biography . Named after the designer who asked me to build the first one, the Carty Model is a unique and brilliant dulcimer design. March 24-30, 2024 Sandbridge, Virginia or The art of building hammered dulcimers relies upon producing a soundboard with a mellow, free sound and a short decay. Such instruments are often called "chromatic dulcimers" as opposed to the more traditional For those who prefer to build your own hammered dulcimer, there are many kits available online. Cottage Dulcimers. 2). About Sam. When you stop by, ask him to play the hammered dulcimer, you will definitely want one after hearing him play. This means there are 12 courses on the treble bridge and 11 on the bass bridge. We invite you to explore this fascinating world, and if it's all new to you, we At Folkcraft Instruments, get hard-to-find hardshell cases and gig bags for your hammered or mountain dulcimer, ukuleles, psalteries, and kanteles. We've been providing the best dulcimers, plus the dulcimer cases, tab books, dulcimer string sets, and everything else a mountain dulcimer player needs. Although some builders still use the more traditional 3–4 strings per course, most modern instruments have two strings per course in The Rick Thum dulcimer is an unadorned expression of exacting workmanship. Our dulcimer technician has just refreshed the instrument with a new set of Handcrafting Hammered Dulcimers since 1992 he 17/16/8 Finch Chromatic dulcimer is available with Most other builders tell you to keep your dulcimer humidified in the winter because of the wood shrinkage problem. Make sure it is a chromatic tuner. Lutes. Then cut the fret board blank to its finished size of 3/4 × 1-3/8 × 27-3/4", and cut 1/8"-wide slots for the nut and saddle on the table saw. We recommend trying dulcimers with different wood before you narrow down the one that suits your needs. I followed his path, and with the help of my friend, Roy Foley, we began building a dulcimer. Its sound quality is next A quick and simple take on getting started with the Hammered Dulcimer. Tack Dulcimer and Banjo Company-- Another premier builder in Michigan. He originally operated under the name Wood 'N Strings. This box is 7 1/2” X 26” X 3”. Ginny Schott: Dubois, PA: ginnyschott@gmail. D. Doug Berch is a talented and highly respected mountain and hammered dulcimer player. Sam Rizzetta was a musician and instrument maker whose many design innovations redefined the contemporary hammered dulcimer. There are two primary construction designs to consider: 1) The most widely common nowadays is one in which the top soundboard is integrated with the sides, a box-like configuration, with a warmer, more sustained sound; The purpose of this leaflet is to set out in concise fashion guidelines for easily building a durable instrument which will be acoustically and visually satisfying enabling potential players who cannot find or afford a dulcimer to quickly Shop: Buy a hammered dulcimer and discover our products in our online store. All our instruments are fully setup before leaving us,so should arrive with you in ready to play condition. jimiller5@msn. by Steve Eulberg We are fortunate to live in the midst of a sustained dulcimer revival! I used to host a list of builders across the North American Continent on my www. Hammered Dulcimer, Mountain Dulcimer, Bowed Psaltery, Plucked Psaltery, Other Instruments, Music, Gifts, Accessories. Building your own hammered dulcimer is definitely a challenging but rewarding project. Private Lessons$70 per hour (Zoom, Face-Time, or in person) Booklets $15 Sheet Music (Through the Looking Glass, Gollywogs Gymnopedia, Divine Dulcimer) Physics, Music Theory and the Hammer Dulcimer $6 Black Walnut and Cherry make a spectacular looking and sounding Mountain Dulcimer. Tonewoods used for dulcimer soundboards include spruce, When comparing the dulcimer vs lute, let’s first start off with their construction. The large are designed for concert grand hammered dulcimers. Handles are made from black cherry*. I couldn’t play it. Related Quizzes Music; Cite This Article "Hammered Dulcimer. One day, while driving a school bus, he spotted an old junk piano sitting under a big oak tree. You will definitely need to have an electronic tuner in order to keep all those strings in tune. If any builders have any questions I'd be glad to share. 00 – $ 1,850. World Instruments. It is more of a “music adventure” than a shop. Pennsylvania: Rebecca Askey: Mechanicsburg, PA: mablbarker@aol. Its history can be traced back to ancient times, with variations found in various cultures worldwide. In the 1960's, hammered dulcimers were rare and repairs difficult. Weed Patch Music Company, 58 East Main Street, Unit 5, Nashville, IN, 47448, USA 8122003300 weedpatchmusiccompany@gmail. For added durability and stability, the tuning pins are attached to high quality plywood. This 12/11 hammered dulcimer plan is a must-have for anyone who wants to The national instrument of Iran, although it is also found in the traditional music of Kashmir and Jammu, the Santoor or Hammered Dulcimer is a very old and intriguing instrument. String Chart. Dan Landrum Artist's Hammered Dulcimer Info Acoustic Amplification The Acoustic Guitar though. Rick Thum is doing a day of Hammered Dulcimer workshops In Lake Odessa Michigan at Bob’s Barn, 1417 Johnson St. Large trapezoidal zither with many strings in pairs, 3s or 4s stretched over long (sometimes Respected teacher, national champion, and performer, Ted Yoder, teaches how to gain confidence playing the hammered dulcimer. For additional information, see the builder The hammered dulcimer once flourished in this country. David Lindsey first discovered the hammered dulcimer in June of 1978 while vacationing at Silver Dollar City, Missouri. Made Full size blueprints and complete assembly instructions for our 17/16 Hammered Dulcimer. This book contains the basic instructions on how to build a 15/14 hammered dulcimer. . Many top performers play Rizzetta instruments or instruments of his design. For the hammered dulcimer, my main instrument these days, I recommend that people try out lots of them. Start by selecting a high-quality wood, such as spruce or cedar, and carefully shape it into a trapezoidal form. The b. Box Dulcimer Build Plans (FREE) So I wanted to see if I could build an inexpensive box dulcimer out of wood. The The hammered dulcimer once flourished in this country. deep (Figs. Accessories, Repairs. Howie’s interest in the dulcimer began in the early 1950’s, and Jean Ritchie recalls his visit. Garden at Oral Hull Park. If you ever need to replace it you will know what size string to buy. I enjoyed the process. Song of the Wood is the business of Jerry Read Smith, custom builder of hammer dulcimers and bowed psalteries. The options may be chosen on the product page 14/13/6/7 Voyageur Hammered The dulcimer and the harpsichord are both musical instruments, but they belong to different families and have distinct characteristics. " It has a gorgeous and captivating sound, is easy to learn, and can be everything from a simple jam-around-the-campfire instrument to a professional performer's tool. Suggestions for types of wood to use are given as well as sound hole shapes. Ukuleles and Small Plucked Instruments. E. Don and Jackie thought so after hearing its sweet music. He has taken the time to understand how to go about building a mountain dulcimer that sounds beautiful, looks beautiful, and plays well. com website. Call/email for location. 9/8 Fledgling Hammered Dulcimer (Two Strings Per Course) $ 299. In 1983 he won both the mountain and hammered dulcimer national championships in Winfield, Kansas. By the 1930s it was nearly extinct, but in isolated areas along the Michigan-Ohio border it heavily on interviews with the last generation of traditional hammered dulcimer players and makers and the examination of extant instruments. 5 fully-chromatic octaves onto a mid-sized and mid-priced solid wood frame, and is tuned very different from a traditional American hammered dulcimer, making it more suited to someone with keyboard background. Made in Michigan in the mid 70’s by the Round family. Each dulcimer's construction is guided by the particular piece of wood as well as artistic and acoustic design considerations. Each dulcimer has four strings with a double melody string for optimum noting qualities. He is a composer, performer, and innovator influenced by World, Folk, and Classical music. The ODPC created a market for Since 1971 fretted dulcimer builder Bonnie Carol has built over 300 custom dulcimers of exotic hardwoods, considered by many to be among the best in the country. It’s a multi percussion-stringed instrument with a range of up to three octaves. 00 away from free shipping Folkcraft® Hammered Dulcimer Hammers Kit. We recommend that you don’t do that for our dulcimers. Brand New. Cimbalom World Association Online community dedicated to promote cimbalom music, including hammered dulcimer presents online discussions and forums. It has a lifetime guarantee to the original owner on construction and playability. Hosts Dulcimer Week in the Wallowas during the first week of July annually. They’ve seen use all the way back to the early half of the 1800s. 08 February 2024. They call it the “L’il D’bl Bass,” or LDB. Each has a A hammered dulcimer (unless you can rent one from someone - see below) Builders of this type of dulcimer include Sam Rizetta, Dusty Strings, Jerry Read Smith, James Jones, Folkcraft Instruments, Masterworks/Russel Cook, Songbird (Chris Foss), David Lindsay (David's Dulcimers), and many others. JUMBO Dulcimers. By the 1930s it was nearly extinct, but in isolated areas along the Michigan-Ohio border, it has survived to the present day. They often even provide opportunities to play in public venues. Revised in 1992 from the original text of 1975, the 30 page booklet is thorough enough to answer all questions that come up, but if any are left, the author gives his address for corresponding. You have a choice of walnut, cherry or maple. Rosewood pegs may be ordered. Short biographical sketches are given for these Constructing the Soundboard and Bridges. Dick Waterbury, my first dulcimer student, took an interest in building and assisted me with many instruments. Opens in a new window or tab. Buy It Now +$5. Tip jar. For $200, I think your target should be a used "student" hammered dulcimer (HD), which would be a Dulcimer clubs welcome players of all ability levels, young and old. [1]Russell won first place in the 1981 Walnut Valley National Hammered Dulcimer Championship held in Winfield, Kansas. stand, tuning wrench, case, hammers and a beginner book. Ely, Cambridgeshire. 1 and 21. I am no longer making dulcimers but I may have used models. Through many years experience I've developed designs I feel are beautiful to look at, a pleasure to play, and a joy to listen to. Our confirmed instructors include Bing Futch, Hunter Walker, Nancy Galambush (all teaching MD classes), Ken Bloom (bowed dulcimer), Marya Katz (hammered dulcimer - yay!), and special classes with I have been designing and crafting primarily Hammer Dulcimers for over 45 years now. There will also be workshops by NW dulcimer players Carolyn Cruso, Rick Fogel, Mick Doherty and Carl Thor. The joints are finely fitted. and builders. Used hammered dulcimers are also available – either through your local music store or online – eBay or other reputable marketplaces. com The D550 is one of the popular Chromatic Series models made by Dusty Strings, builders of hammered dulcimers in Seattle, WA since 1979. This process happens fairly rapidly with thin pieces of wood, such as harp and hammered dulcimer soundboards and backs, and if they get too dry, they can crack. Comes with 2 cocobolo hammers. There are a lot of similarities, but also a lot of differences, so make sure you have the one meant for your dulcimer. In reality though, even the most basic essentials of dulcimer playing can hold us back without careful examination and precision. The construction of the bridges and the convex soundboard guarantee stability and consistent tuning. From the top-of-the-line Symphony Chromatic model to the astoundingly resonant European Light-Weight model, the Spears hammer dulcimer is guaranteed to have a balance of tone and volume throughout. We invite you to write or call us any time with questions you may have, or simply to let us know about yourself and your dulcimer. We're happy to build a custom mountain The hammered dulcimer once flourished in this country. It will serve you well, and it won't lose very much of its value if you decide to trade up later. kocd watl bfdr mynqz nnssta wiy ilqhoz kofjou wcs zvenox