The mountain dulcimer changed my life.  In a matter of weeks, I obtained a skill set that I wasn't able to achieve for years on my guitar.   I teach it because:

• It is, simply put, the easiest instrument to play.  Even easier than the ukulele.

• It is an instrument of hope for so many who have given up on themselves, feel they have no musical abilities or have vision, physical or mental challenges.  

• If you can't carry a tune, it becomes your voice, because it is a melody instrument. 

• It is almost instantly playable. It is configured in such a way that one can play a simple melody with harmony back up in a matter of minutes, and with just one finger.  How cool is that?

• It is an American invention from the mid 1800's. It originated in the Appalachian Mountains by segregated simple folk who played ballads on it, passed down through their generations.  Most were illiterate and couldn't read music, yet music they played on it. 

• The ability to read music is not a requirement.

• Unlike the guitar, your fingers aren't so sore and you don't have to wait to play something.

• It sounds like the six string guitar, but only has three strings. Sometimes four.

• You stay motivated to play because you are instantly gratified when you do. 

• It is soothing, healing, and sounds like a cross between a harp and a guitar.  Yet, you can play it like a classical, country or rock guitarist. There are even electric dulcimers.

• Because of the fretboard lay out of the major scale, and do-rae-me is already ingrained into your DNA, you can pick out a simple tune and play it. Anyone can.  No musical experience required. 

My play room.  Not included in this picture is my collection of mountain dulcimers and native American flutes.

 MOUNTAIN DULCIMERS                                                                                               

McSpadden and Folkcraft are among the leading top quality dulcimers, though pricey.  However, I found a luthier that plays and makes high quality and very affordable mountain dulcimers.  Mark Willingham with Moriah Dulcimers in Charlotte, NC.  He may be contacted at johmarwill@aol.com.  He repairs dulcimers as well.  If you have an older dulcimer that has wooden pegs, it may be also missing the 6 1/2 fre which is used today in the DAd tunning.  If that isn't an option perhaps a local luthier at a music shop may be willing to change the pegs to geared tuners or add the extra fret.  The wooden pegs don't hold.

 If you are unsure if the dulcimer is the right fit for you or your family, I highly recommend ordering a Simplicity Dulcimer from Backyard Music. The cost is under $100.00.  They come with accessories in a variety of colors. Each has a nice mahogany fretboard with geared tuners, and a solid durable cardboard body so they are light weight.  They play well, except in the bathtub.                                                                                    

 Hammered Dulcimers__________________________________________________________

 I will teach you basic intro lessons and get you started, but you will need to have your own instrument.  Three of the finest hammered dulcimers are, Dusty Strings, Master Works (Russell Cook),  and Song of the Wood (Jerry Read Smith).  Mr. Smith lives in Ashville, NC at his shop.  He sells mountain and hammer dulcimers.  He is a luthier of the hammer dulcimer and sells various brands.  His custom made  instruments are very reasonable .   Visit his website and call him.  

   Native American Flute  David O'Neal at Rising Moon Flutes is my favorite flute maker.  His website is Rising Moon Flutes.  His home shop is in Raleigh, NC.