Welcome. So you can’t sing, huh. Compared to who?
There are many many amateur entertainers who can’t sing, but they sing anyway. Learn two songs that are in your range, practice, and go for it.
Lisa, congratulations on your weight loss. IMO, a little bit along is better for your health than a sudden gigantic loss.
It’s blueberry time at your place, and figs at my place. In another 2 weeks my daughter will make enough fig preserves to last our whole big family another year.
Also, hello there. 👋
Hi Andi,
Welcome to the forum. There are many friends here that will gladly help you along in your journey.
“The dulcimer is an unknown instrument in Spain.”
That might be true, but in most places in the US The dulcimer is mostly unknown, too. I live in the deep southern part of the state of Georgia. If I had not learned to play this instrument & shared it with many people, it would still be unknown in these parts.
So, Andi. Challenge yourself to learn this wonderful instrument, and introduce it to the citizens of your great country, Spain. Who knows, in 30 years they may build a statue of you, in your capital city, holding a mountain dulcimer.
My wife has been a pianist since 6 years old. I always loved to hear her play, but for the Last 10 years or so, she doesn’t play much. But for the last months she has nursed and cared for me beyond measure. But the most significant enjoyment I’ve received is listening to her softly playing. On this special day, I give thanks to this special person in my life, and her talent with the ivory.
this site puts life into perspective and brings a great laugh....thanks Terry....not tupid......just engaged in listening. hummmmmmmm, gotta look up that song Antioch Church Choir.
aloha, irene
“Whatever happened to singing? “
”I have no musical talent at all.”
Lisa, while surfing, I accidentally discovered these two blogs you wrote about 10 years ago. That’s about when I got started learning to play.
Finding this brought huge smiles to my face. Everything you wrote is just so very true. And. Loved the comments that others wrote.
The truth is, I don’t even know how I stumbled across this treasure.
Thanks for making my day, once again.
Terry
I have several things I want to work on, but one in particular. Learn more songs with the dulcimer and harmonica played together. The good folks seem to love this combo, but I’ve been lazy and neglectful. Also, finally take the time to memorize all the verses on Wildwood Flower. What a beautiful song it is, High time I add some words with it.
"Live streaming" is the same idea as live television broadcast, except it usually means using the internet rather than the airwaves to transmit the signal. It also includes watching on a computer or smartphone rather than a TV with rabbit ears.
If you're interested in performing in front of a group, it would be a way for you to to that ... except you'd be performing in front of a camera, not (for lack of a better term) a studio audience.
Eh. I suppose it might be better than nothing. But I suspect it would be less satisfying. Then again, people record themselves while playing and then upload the video to YouTube, FOTMD, Facebook, and so forth.
I play at an Assisted Living Facility. I cancelled before I got word from them, because I just don't think any of us outsiders should be coming in there at this time. I have heard one the the Assisted Living Facilities in town isn't allowing visitors, I'm sure the one I play at and the others will follow suit.
Be smart. Stay healthy.
Hi Terry,
I just reached out to a library where I'm scheduled for a program later this month. The program I do is 100% public domain -- the joys of historical programs. I suspect material you are using is also public domain. They offered to either postpone the program or live stream it. I'm not sure how many of us have that option, I know I would need them handling it, but it's becoming a method for all manner of meetings and performances. I confess that techies would need to help me if I tried to do it on my own.
Just heard that Hong Kong is finding that survivors of the virus have 20-30% reduced lung capacity. Stay well & use it as you said, with new material work.
I might even find time to go back through the timeline here as I've had to be off it with rehearsals and performances.
Well, after a few years of performing at senior homes two-three times weekly, I’ve been locked out until further notice. Coronavirus.
Others having this experience? I wholeheartedly agree with their decisions. But it’s kind of a loose feeling. Missing the experience, but most of all the residents. After awhile, it’s like having a bunch of mothers. Even though I am older than some.
Gonna take this down time to learn some new songs, dulcimer and ukulele. Already working on this. I have decided I like Tom Waits. Write some new jokes. How many times can you tell the same old jokes before they figure you out.
Time to also work on some new devotions. With the reality of this virus and it’s potential outcome, I suspect it might be high time to delve into this a little deeper. Perhaps I need to have a gut check.
”Just rambling a bit with a sincere mine.”
I understand! I have different problems with my hands. Other than pulling up my pants and brushing my teeth, mountain dulcimer is the big consideration when something happens with my hands. :)
Sal- monella
In answer to your question about a good dulcimer learning book.
Beyond the Basics, by Linda W Collins, of Cabin Hill Music.
www.cabinhillmusic.com
A great great learning tool by video, are Strumelia’s old videos. She has posted many learning videos that are very valuable to beginners. Were to me, 8 years ago, anyway.
Good luck in your hopefully amazing journey.
Terry
You folks are ha ha 😄 funny.
