Hi Breanna,
I used to own a McSpaddenstandard hour-glass (spruce and walnut)dulcimer. My grandsons (beginning with the oldest who will be 18 this week) all learned to play on it. In fact, the oldest started "playing" when he was old enough to sit in my lap, with the dulcimer in his lap (probably about 18 months old at the time). He absolutely LOVED the dulcimer, and still does! While it did seem big for them, they quickly learned "Bile them Cabbage Down" and other simple tunes on it. It plays very easy and has a wonderful sound. Chords were a little more difficult for little fingers, but they were never afraid of it or discouraged by it. It now resides at their house - permanently. All 3 boys can play a variety of tunes. The 10 year old has been able to play Wildwood Flower for a year or so now.
I know there are different things to think about before buying an instrument, but I wanted to share my experiences with you. On a side note, the small dulcimers are fun, easy to travel with and I have a 3 string Ron Ewing dulcimette that my sister-in-law gave me and I happen to love it! I guess the reason I say this is - whatever you get, you probably will end up playing it too!
Good luck!
Cindy
Edward - I have used the Herdim picks forever - but after reading your post here, I am going to try the V-pick.
Anxious to get them (I am ordering a traditional, large and freakishly large - ultra light). I will post when I get them!
Thanks for the tip!
Edward I Ball said:
Hello Leighann, I tried different picks from Eldely, then saw from videos that Bing Futch endorsed V-Picks so I ordered couple each of there "Bing" dulcimer picks, I love the ultra lite, not to bendy, but they are an acrylic that is not sticky, but warms and grips to your hand, also have a great sound, I ordered couple more of each for a friend, who also loves them, little expensive, but last a long time. You can just look up V-Picks online, fast service.
