Bill, there are many fine dulcimers available. Deciding is sometimes overwhelming even for experienced players. Avoid those made overseas; Apple Creek and Roosebeck are two of the imports.
I would advise to get a good but inexpensive dulcimer to start. It can be new or used. You will need to play awhile and then you will know better what you want as you decide on your playing style, the sound you want, the types of music you will play, etc.
As for holding value many do reasonably well in this area. McSpadden and Folkcraft are two. Those by Ron Ewing and Blue Lion and a number of other makers hold their value.
The least expensive route for a beginner is one of the student models from several different makers. There always seems to be a market for the student models as one advances on and new players come on seeking an instrument.
If you do find a used dulcimer, have an experienced player check it over. I had my hands on one not long ago that was so poorly intonated that it is not good for anything but wall art.
Hi Bill, and welcome to the wonderful world of the Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer. It's a good place to come, spend some time, learn about the dulcimer, and to meet some good people.
Welcome, Bill, to this little corner of dulcimer heaven. There are a lot of choices in instruments. If you want to get one without playing it, then McSpaddens seem to be very consistent. If you want one from an individual maker might I suggest Jerry Rockwell who's not just a great player but an excellent maker as well as having become a great friend. jcrmusic.com Hope you enjoy it here.
Can anyone give me some ideas of what beginner/intermediate dulcimer to buy that will keep its' value. I have done so much research, I'm getting overloaded. McSpadden, Warren May, Ron Gibson, T.K. O'Brien, Berg, etc. etc. HELP!!!
Welcome Bill Straub to Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer. Glad you have decided to take up the dulcimer. Boy, getting that first instrument can be such a big event. Best wishes as you consider your options. Glad you have joined the forum. Post comments, ask questions. This is a super friendly place. Best wishes on your dulcimer journey.
Bill, there are many fine dulcimers available. Deciding is sometimes overwhelming even for experienced players. Avoid those made overseas; Apple Creek and Roosebeck are two of the imports.
I would advise to get a good but inexpensive dulcimer to start. It can be new or used. You will need to play awhile and then you will know better what you want as you decide on your playing style, the sound you want, the types of music you will play, etc.
As for holding value many do reasonably well in this area. McSpadden and Folkcraft are two. Those by Ron Ewing and Blue Lion and a number of other makers hold their value.
The least expensive route for a beginner is one of the student models from several different makers. There always seems to be a market for the student models as one advances on and new players come on seeking an instrument.
If you do find a used dulcimer, have an experienced player check it over. I had my hands on one not long ago that was so poorly intonated that it is not good for anything but wall art.
Hi Bill, and welcome to the wonderful world of the Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer. It's a good place to come, spend some time, learn about the dulcimer, and to meet some good people.
Ben
Hey Bill, welcome aboard. Glad ya found us.
Welcome, Bill, to this little corner of dulcimer heaven. There are a lot of choices in instruments. If you want to get one without playing it, then McSpaddens seem to be very consistent. If you want one from an individual maker might I suggest Jerry Rockwell who's not just a great player but an excellent maker as well as having become a great friend. jcrmusic.com Hope you enjoy it here.
Rob
Can anyone give me some ideas of what beginner/intermediate dulcimer to buy that will keep its' value. I have done so much research, I'm getting overloaded. McSpadden, Warren May, Ron Gibson, T.K. O'Brien, Berg, etc. etc. HELP!!!
Welcome to FOTMD Bill. It's good to have you aboard. I just spent three days with my sister at her home in Sliver Spring. Sorry I missed you.
Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."
Welcome Bill Straub to Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer. Glad you have decided to take up the dulcimer. Boy, getting that first instrument can be such a big event. Best wishes as you consider your options. Glad you have joined the forum. Post comments, ask questions. This is a super friendly place. Best wishes on your dulcimer journey.