mountain dulcimer (info from Bear Meadow Dulcimers)

The Appalachian Dulcimer is a fretted zither originally found in Southern mountain cultures, and is thought by some to be a descendent of the European zither, via the Germans who settled Pennsylvania and brought with them their square, three-stringed Scheitholt, a European folk zither of which there are many forms (see Epinette des Voges, for instance). Others believe the Appalachian Dulcimer is a true child of the Eastern American Mountain communities.

Whatever we may make of these opinions, the first Appalachian Dulcimers we know of were built in the mid-nineteenth century by rural craftsmen, who used whatever wood was growing around them, and whatever techniques would result in a playable instrument. The results were often crude, sometimes witty (some builders formed frets by hammering nails into the fretboard and bending them over), but always these little home-made instruments have a real charm and presence. Having been discovered by folk musicians, the dulcimer has grown beyond its mountain roots, and now attracts attention from musicians playing Early Music, jazz, blues, and ensemble music. This has created a demand for a truly accomplished musical instrument that will deliver concert quality when a performer needs true intonation, acoustic power and presence, and sweet voice.

From Sharon Kimball, (Appalachian Cultural Muesum)

The delicate haunting sounds of the Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer have been echoing through the hills and hollers of the southern highlands for many decades. The name itself conveys the simple beauty of the instrument for it comes from the Latin word dulcis meaning sweet and the Greek word melos meaning sound: dulcimer = sweet sound. The simple wooden instrument, traditionally with only three strings, is America’s oldest folk instrument and a truly authentic American creation.

Teachers! Order an inexpensive kit including a cardboard dulcimer and instructional materials. For a higher quality instrument go here. For Evo’s instructional dulcimer book go here.