American Hammered Dulcimer
The American Hammered Dulcimer is usually played on a stand. There are two moveable bridges. The Strings run in courses over these bridges between the non-parallel sides. A course is composed of consecutive strings, tuned to the same note. The courses alternate over the left bridge than the right and back and forth. In this way each course of strings provides two tones, one to each side of the bridge.
Also, by alternating courses over two bridges four playing surfaces are available, though usually only three are used. The American Hammer Dulcimer has two strings per course. It may be picked, plucked, or played with a bow, quill or hammer.
Included FREE: "Arranging for Hammered Dulcimer" by Jeanne Page
Beginning and Intermediate players who have developed a repertoire of melodies will be walked step by step through the process of arranging their tunes. Lessons provide a detailed explanation and numerous examples of root position chords and their inversions on the 12-11 and larger sized hammered dulcimer. Simple tunes are provided for the reader to incorporate newly acquired knowledge of chord theory. Descriptions of bounces, triplets, doubling, counter melodies, arpeggios, scale runs, extended chords, etc. are included as well as opportunities to create arrangements utilizing these techniques. 88 pages.
- 46 String
- 12 left, 11 right courses (12/11 = two 1/2 octave)
- Rosewood and movable bridges
- Book (shipped separately)
- Hammers included
- Shipping insurance included
- Brand new!
Note: Whether you purchase an instrument on-line or from a physical store locally, it is recommended that you change the strings on your new instrument as soon as you receive it. The strings of an instrument both in a store or shipped to you are exposed to air and different environments prior to you receiving it. During this time the strings WILL oxidize, decreasing it's life expectancy and reducing the quality of it's sound. On occasion instruments may even arrive with a broken string, therefore, it is recommended that you purchase a replacement set of strings and consider changing your strings as soon as it arrives. Learning to change strings should be the first lesson learned when embarking on the journey of playing a new instrument.