If you’re looking for the best dulcimer to add to your musical arsenal, look no further! In this guide, we’ll show you the 10 best dulcimers of 2023.
Table of Contents
Appalachian dulcimer
The Appalachian dulcimer is a stringed instrument of the zither family, typically with three or four strings. Its origins are in the Appalachian Mountains of the United States. The body shape resembles a trapezoid, and it is usually played held upright in the lap. The Appalachian dulcimer has many variant names. Most often it is simply called a “dulcimer”.
The instrument first appeared in the early 19th century among Scots-Irish immigrants who settled in the Appalachian Mountains. Dulcimers built in the early 21st century are significantly different from those of earlier periods. While 20th-century instruments retained traditional features, such as slanted soundboards and frets placed at intervals other than semitones, contemporary builders have incorporated modern innovations, such as extended ranges and alternate tunings.
The word “dulcimer” (sometimes spelled “dulcemel”, “dulcimel”, or “dulcinet”) is derived from the Latin dulcis (melody) and the Greek melos (song). It was used to describe any sweet sounding stringed instrument. The word “dulcimer” first appeared in print circa 1819, in an article about music in Jamestown, Virginia.
The earliest known American Dulcimer was made by Joel Walker Sweeney of Galax, Virginia around 1839. Sweeney’s dulcimer had two bridges and four strings. He later added a second pair of strings and moved one bridge, creating a 5-string instrument with 3 melody strings and 2 drone strings tuned an octave apart. This design became known as the Galax style dulcimer.
Sweeney’s nephew, Absalom Grimes, began making dulcimers around 1850. Grimes’ dulcimers had slanted soundboards and frets placed at intervals other than semitones. This design became known as the Appalachian style dulcimer.
Grimes’ son Robertadded a raised fifth string to his father’s design, creating a 6-string instrument with 4 melody strings and 2 drone strings tuned an octave apart. This design became known as the Grayson style dulcimer.
Dulcimers built in the 20th century retained traditional features such as slanted soundboards and frets placed at intervals other than semitones. However, contemporary builders also incorporated modern innovations such as extended ranges and alternate tunings.
One popular contemporary innovation is the mountain dulcimer capo which allows players to easily change keys without retuning their instrument. Another popular innovation is the use of electric pickups which allow dulcimers to be plugged into amplifiers for louder volume levels.
Mountain dulcimer
The Appalachian dulcimer is a truly unique and special instrument. It’s handcrafted with love and care, and it has a sound that’s absolutely beautiful. I’ve been playing the dulcimer for over 20 years, and I can say without a doubt that it’s one of the most rewarding instruments I’ve ever played.
The dulcimer is incredibly versatile. You can play anything from gentle folk songs to upbeat bluegrass tunes. And because the dulcimer is so portable, you can take it with you wherever you go.
If you’re looking for an instrument that’s fun to play and sounds great, then I highly recommend the Appalachian dulcimer.
American folk dulcimer
The American folk dulcimer is a beautiful and unique instrument that has a long history in the United States. It is perfect for anyone who loves music and wants to learn a new instrument, or for those who want to add a new dimension to their musical repertoire. The dulcimer is an easy instrument to learn, and it is extremely versatile, able to be played solo or in a group. It has a rich and full sound that will fill any room, and its unique appearance is sure to turn heads.
The American folk dulcimer is a fretless zither that is typically played with two or three strings. It is a member of the family of stringed instruments known as dulcimers, which also includes the hammered dulcimer and the mountain dulcimer. The folk dulcimer originated in the Appalachian Mountains of the United States, and it has been used by American folk musicians for centuries.
The American folk dulcimer is typically made of wood, with a wooden soundboard and metal strings. The most common woods used for the construction of the dulcimer are cherry, maple, and walnut. The dulcimer can also be made from other materials such as aluminum or plastic. The size of the dulcimer varies depending on the type of music that it will be used for, but most dulcimers are between two and four feet long.
The American folk dulcimer has a rich history in the United States, and it is still being used by folk musicians today. It is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres, including bluegrass, country, folk, and rock. If you are looking for an instrument that is unique and has a lot of character, then the American folk dulcimer is the perfect choice for you.
Hammered dulcimer
The hammered dulcimer is a stringed instrument that is played by striking the strings with small hammers. It is a folk instrument that originated in the Middle East and has been played for centuries in many different cultures. The hammered dulcimer has a unique sound that is created by the way the hammers strike the strings. The hammers create a percussive sound that is combined with the melodic sound of the strings. The result is a beautiful and haunting sound that can be used for both music and storytelling.
The hammered dulcimer is a relatively easy instrument to learn how to play. There are a few different techniques that can be used to create different sounds. The most common way to play the hammered dulcimer is by using two hands, one to hold the hammer and the other to pluck the string. This method is called the single-handed technique. The other method is called the double-handed technique and it involves using both hands to strike the strings. This method allows for more complex rhythms and melodies.
There are many different brands and models of hammered dulcimers on the market. Some of the most popular brands are Deering, Hammered Dulcimer World, and Mountain Dulcimer. There are also many different sizes of hammered dulcimers. The size of the instrument will determine how many strings it has and how big the soundboard is. The size of the soundboard will also determine how loud the instrument is.
When choosing a hammered dulcimer, it is important to consider what type of music you want to play. If you are interested in playing traditional folk music, then you will want to choose an instrument that has a simple design. If you are interested in playing more complex music, then you may want to choose an instrument with a more intricate design. It is also important to consider your skill level when choosing an instrument. If you are a beginner, then you will want to choose an instrument that is easy to play. If you are more experienced, then you can choose an instrument with more complicated features.
The Deering Goodtime Americana is a great choice for beginners. It has a simple design and only has 12 strings. It is also very affordable. The Hammered Dulcimer World Heritage Series is a great choice for those who want to play more complex music. It has a larger soundboard and 32 strings. It is also more expensive than the Deering Goodtime Americana.
If you are looking for a great gift for someone who loves music, then consider giving them a hammered dulcimer. This unique instrument will provide them with hours of enjoyment and they will be able to share their love of music with others.
Electric dulcimer
The Hammered Dulcimer is a stringed instrument that is played by striking the strings with small hammers. The dulcimer originated in the Middle East and has been played for centuries. The hammered dulcimer is a popular folk instrument in America and Europe.
The electric dulcimer is a relatively new invention. The first electric dulcimer was built in the early 1970s. Electric dulcimers are similar to acoustic dulcimers, but they have pickups and can be plugged into an amplifier.
Electric dulcimers are not as common as acoustic dulcimers, but they are gaining in popularity. Many people who play the hammered dulcimer also play the electric dulcimer.
The electric dulcimer has a bright, clear sound that is perfect for many types of music. The electric dulcimer is very versatile and can be used for a wide range of genres, including folk, rock, jazz, and country.
If you are looking for an electric dulcimer, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will want to make sure that the dulcimer you purchase has a pickup system. Some electric dulcimers do not have pickups and must be played through an amplifier.
Second, you will want to consider the size of the dulcimer. Electric dulcimers come in a variety of sizes, from small travel-sized instruments to large floor models. Choose the size that is right for you and your needs.
Third, you will want to decide what type of music you want to play on your electric dulcimer. There are many different styles of music that can be played on an electric dulcimer, so it is important to select the one that best suits your interests and skill level.
Fourth, you will want to consider the price of the electric dulcimer. Electric dulcimers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Choose the price range that is right for you and your budget.
Fifth, you will want to read reviews of electric dulcimers before you make your purchase. Reading reviews will help you learn about the different features of each model and help you decide which one is right for you.
There are many different brands and models of electric dulcimers on the market today. Take your time and research each one carefully before making your final decision. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect electric dulcimer for your needs and budget.
Chromatic dulcimer
The chromatic dulcimer is a great addition to any musician’s arsenal. It is a very versatile instrument that can be used for a wide variety of genres. I have been playing the chromatic dulcimer for a little over a year now and I absolutely love it. I play mostly folk and acoustic music, but the chromatic dulcimer can be used for just about anything. The possibilities are endless.
The first thing you’ll notice about the chromatic dulcimer is its unique sound. It has a very distinct tone that is unlike any other instrument. It is also very easy to play. You don’t need to know how to read music or have any experience playing an instrument to be able to pick it up and start playing. The chromatic dulcimer is also very portable, which makes it perfect for taking with you on the go.
I highly recommend the chromatic dulcimer to anyone looking for a new instrument to add to their collection. It is a great value for the price and will provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Pedal steel dulcimer
The pedal steel dulcimer is a great instrument for those who want to learn how to play the steel guitar. It is a very affordable instrument and is easy to find. The pedal steel dulcimer comes with a built in amp, so you do not need an external amplifier. The pedal steel dulcimer has a volume control and a tone control. The pedal steel dulcimer also has a tremolo arm, which allows you to create vibrato effects. The pedal steel dulcimer is a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Lap dulcimer
Lap dulcimer review in amazon.com
The hammered dulcimer is a stringed instrument with a trapezoidal shape. It is usually played while sitting on the lap, and has two bridges, one at each end of the instrument. The strings run over these bridges, and are plucked with the right hand, while the left hand dampens the strings that are not being played.
The hammered dulcimer originated in the Middle East, and spread to Europe via the Byzantine Empire. It is thought to have reached England by the 14th century, where it was known as the ‘dulcimer’. In America, the instrument was brought over by German and Scottish immigrants in the 18th century, and became particularly popular in Appalachian folk music.
The hammered dulcimer is a very versatile instrument, capable of playing a wide range of musical styles. It has a bright, ringing sound which can be used for both melodic and percussive purposes. The instrument is relatively easy to learn, and even complete beginners can be playing simple tunes within a few minutes.
If you’re looking for a unique and interesting musical instrument, then the hammered dulcimer is definitely worth considering. In this review, we’ll take a look at some of the best lap dulcimers currently available on the market.
Octave mandolin
Introduction
The Octave mandolin is a great addition to any musician’s arsenal. It’s a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres, including folk, bluegrass, and country. The Octave mandolin is also a great choice for beginners, as it’s relatively easy to learn how to play. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Octave mandolin and see what it has to offer.
Design and Construction
The Octave mandolin is a flat-top instrument with a body shape that resembles a cross between a guitar and a mandolin. The instrument has a total length of 26 inches (66 cm) and a body width of 13 inches (33 cm). The top of the instrument is made from spruce, while the back and sides are made from maple. The fingerboard is made from rosewood, and the bridge is made from ebony. The Octave mandolin has 20 frets, and the string nut is made from bone. The instrument has an open-pore finish, which gives it a natural look and feel.
Sound Quality
The Octave mandolin has a bright and cheerful sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres. The instrument produces a clear and articulate tone that is perfect for strumming chords or playing melodies. The Octave mandolin also has good projection and can easily be heard in a band setting.
Playability
The Octave mandolin is a very playable instrument. The neck is comfortable to hold, and the strings are easy to press down. The action on the instrument is low, which makes it easy to play fast passages without worrying about buzzes or other unwanted sounds. The Octave mandolin stays in tune well, even when played for extended periods of time.
Conclusion
The Octave mandolin is a great choice for musicians of all skill levels. The instrument is well-made and produces a clear and articulate sound. TheOctave mandolin is also very easy to play, thanks to its low action and comfortable neck. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile mandolin, the Octave mandolin should definitely be at the top of your list.
Hurdy gurdy
The Hurdy Gurdy is one of the most interesting and unique instruments around. It’s a stringed instrument that you play by turning a handle, which rubs the strings and produces a sound that’s a cross between a violin and a bagpipe. The Hurdy Gurdy has been around for centuries, and is still popular in many parts of Europe. If you’re looking for an instrument that’s a little different, the Hurdy Gurdy is definitely worth considering.
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a Hurdy Gurdy. First, there are two main types of Hurdy Gurdies: those with frets and those without. Fretless Hurdy Gurdies are more traditional, and tend to be more expensive. If you’re just starting out, you may want to consider a fretted model.
Second, make sure to get a Hurdy Gurdy with good quality strings. The strings are what produce the sound, so you’ll want ones that are durable and produce a good tone.
Third, take a look at the different sizes of Hurdy Gurdies. They range from small models that you can hold in your lap to large floor models. Choose the size that’s right for you based on where you’ll be playing it and how much space you have.
Finally, make sure to try out different brands of Hurdy Gurdies before making your purchase. Each brand has its own unique sound, so you’ll want to find one that you like the best. And don’t forget to read reviews before buying – they can be very helpful in making your decision.
The Hurdy Gurdy is a great instrument for anyone who wants something a little different. It’s unique sound will add an element of fun and excitement to any music session. With a little research, you should be able to find the perfect Hurdy Gurdy for you.