A dulcimer is a string instrument made up of a wooden trapezoidal, hourglass, or teardrop body and at least four strings. It is plucked by hand or struck by a mallet to produce a bright, ringing sound. It is played on the lap or set in front of the player.
Types of Dulcimers
Kinds of Dulcimers include the following:
Standard dulcimer
A standard dulcimer is made of solid birch and cedar.
It is also called an Appalachian dulcimer.
It measures 35 inches in length.
It is ideal for student players.
Custom dulcimer
A custom dulcimer comes in different shapes commonly hourglass and teardrop.
It is tuned an octave higher than the standard dulcimer.
It produces a ringing and bright sound.
Hammered dulcimer
A hammered dulcimer can be made of solid or carved rosewood.
The less expensive model is usually made of mahogany, walnut, and maple.
It has a rod-supported soundboard for improved tone and strength.
It has a movable bridge.
It is has 46 to 72 strings and nine to 12 right and left courses.
It plays in the keys F, C, G, D, and A in two to three octaves.
Choosing Dulcimers (Buying tips)
Number of hammered string courses: If you want a hammered dulcimer, choose a standard 12/11 one if you are a beginner. As you get better, you can move up to a 15/14 hammered dulcimer with an extra bottom and top notes. Buy or build: If you are a do-it-yourself kind of person, consider getting a dulcimer kit and building your own. However, be sure to ask help from people who have had experience in building one. For convenience, quality and accuracy, choose a ready-made dulcimer.
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