Ellen Rice

Hi REllen, please see my message in your inbox, thanks!

Welcome to FOTMD, Ellen! I'm always interested in hearing about someone just starting out, what their concerns are, as well as their joys. Many of us started on cardboard dulcimers or student dulcimers that helped us know whether we had any aptitude for this. It would be great if someone could lend you one for a bit and show you some songs and point you to all the great videos on the internet that you can use for your personal instruction--I'd do that if I were closer! I do think it's a good idea to get as good a one as you can afford....but a "good one" might be one that has a pretty voice, or is unique (in a good way), is easy to play and tune....or will look really good hanging on the wall if you decide you like it better as "art"! Good luck in your search!

Hi Ellen, 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

Welcome, Ellen, to this little corner of dulcimer heaven. Hope you enjoy it here.

Rob

Thank you, all kind souls! I am learning a great deal just by poking about the site. My favorite posting so far is from Jim Edwards, who wrote:

Also, did you know that all of the D-Sensitized modes are considered to be drunken modes, since the low and high D's all have an open fifth between them. That is, except for the Locrian mode, which is considered to be a plastered mode, since the low and high D's have a DIMINISHED fifth between them.

HMM, this instrument has more to it that I knew . . .

Howdy and welcome to the FOTMD family!

Hey Ellen, welcome aboard. Glad ya found us.