Forum Activity for @susie

Susie
@susie
11/25/23 07:49:53AM
494 posts

Reasons NOT To Get a Chromatic


Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions

Nightingale:

So, in my mind, let a guitar be a guitar, let a banjo be a banjo and let a dulcimer be a dulcimer.

 

This is my feeling as well. I play (or played) several fretted chromatic instruments. The dulcimer is unique in its diatonic tradition. I find it simple, yet challenging; which in turn provides a refreshing approach to my music. 

That said, I respect others who have personal and valid reasons for choosing to play a chromatic dulcimer.


updated by @susie: 11/25/23 07:50:34AM
Susie
@susie
11/16/23 06:54:10PM
494 posts

My first album is for sale!


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...

That's awesome Grant, congratulations! 

Susie
@susie
11/16/23 06:56:32AM
494 posts

Dulcimer and mandolins


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

@DaveBerry, beautiful music, talented artists, and awesome video. Thanks for sharing!


updated by @susie: 11/16/23 06:57:07AM
Susie
@susie
11/08/23 01:09:15PM
494 posts

FS: Kala Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele, Hard Case & Acc.


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...

Price drop to $375, with free shipping CONUS, as described in the original post.

Susie
@susie
11/06/23 08:42:00AM
494 posts

FS: Kala Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele, Hard Case & Acc.


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...

Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele, Hard Case and Accessories.

$390, which includes free shipping, UPS Ground with tracking and insurance, CONUS.

This is a top level ukulele from Kala.

Features:
• All solid acacia wood construction (top, back and sides)
• Maple wood bindings
• Herringbone purfling and rosette
• Satin finish
• Swirl fretboard inlays
• Rosewood fingerboard and bridge
• Mahogany neck
• Multilayered slotted headstock
• Graph Tech Nubone nut and saddle
• Chrome geared tuners
• 20” baritone scale length
• 30” overall length
• 1.5” nut width
• 10” width
• 3” depth

This ukulele is in like-new condition. It has had minimal use and has been kept in its case in our humidity-controlled, smoke-free home. The Oahu case is also in like-new condition.

When I ordered it a couple years ago, I had 2 deluxe ivory-colored strap buttons installed, to match the maple binding. Also, the ukulele was fully set-up, so it has a nice string height for strumming or fingerpicking. With the Oasis fluorocarbon strings that are installed, it has a beautiful, sweet tone with nice sustain. The intonation is very good, up and down the fretboard. 

Included with the ukulele are all of the following accessories:
1. Oahu Hardshell Case with Strap.
2. 2 Sets of Oasis Fluorocarbon “Southcoast Linear Baritone” Strings (one package, which includes enough to restring the ukulele twice).
3. Shubb L9 Lite Ukulele Capo (violet).
4. Levy's Leathers 1/2" Jacquard Weave Ukulele Strap with Dual Leather Strap Pin Ends.
5. Set of 12 BoloPick Felt Ukulele Picks.
6. A laminated card that I made that explains how to attach strings at the tie-bridge and the tuning pegs, during a string change.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE SALE: The stand that was used to take pictures for this ad is NOT included in this sale.

SHIPPING: Free shipping via UPS Ground (with tracking and insurance) CONUS. I've sold and shipped many instruments over the years, so I know how to package it well. I will provide the tracking number to the buyer.

PAYMENT: PayPal Friends and Family.

A.jpg B.jpg C.jpg D.jpg E.jpg


updated by @susie: 11/06/23 08:55:19AM
Susie
@susie
10/01/23 03:29:51PM
494 posts

Native American Flutes


Adventures with 'other' instruments...

steve104c:

If you look on High Spirits Flutes, you will see he calls them Native American Style flutes. Years ago the American Indians sued the people selling “Native American Flutes” when the person making the flutes had no Native American heritage. Now when selling a “Native American Flute” it must have been made by a “Native American “ or if not by an “American Native “, it must be sold as “Native American Style “. “Native American Flute Style “ donates the type. “ Native American Flute “ donates it is an official “ Native American”  made flute.


 

Thank you for that explanation. I see that on the HS website. I understand and agree with the distinction.  That said, I think in causal conversation, when we speak of our flutes, there's no harm in calling the HS flutes, Native American Flutes. I know I do. I'm thankful for such builders who are responsible and respectful and build quality flutes. In doing so, they are still honoring the Native Americans, the instrument, and the music.


Thanks again! flute nod

Susie
@susie
08/13/23 10:50:28AM
494 posts

Kurt Vonnegut quote...


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

I just love that. I was raised playing sports; competing; excelling; career, etc. I reached a point where I got tired of it and just wanted to enjoy doing what I loved to do, one of which was music (since 1973). Now retired, it's a nice place to be in life, with my husband, family, and doggos. 


updated by @susie: 08/13/23 10:51:31AM
Susie
@susie
07/20/23 01:01:44PM
494 posts

Native American Flutes


Adventures with 'other' instruments...

I picked up another flute from High Spirits. I've been wanting one of their ebonized walnut flutes, so when I found a generous coupon code, I just had to get it. The turquoise cabochons really look nice too. Crow flute in the key of A. It has a beautiful, warm tone. I also picked up a second Spirit Flute earlier this year. I'm at 5 now, I think that's enough. winky flute

 IMG_20230720_115905876.jpg


updated by @susie: 07/20/23 08:29:52PM
Susie
@susie
06/24/23 03:57:26PM
494 posts

What to call your dulcimer collection?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Ken Hulme:

Mine!  Mine!  That's Mine.  That too!  Mine. Mine!

I was going to say the same thing, Ken...

Mine, mine, all mine!

Susie
@susie
03/19/23 06:16:29AM
494 posts

Gary Sager


OFF TOPIC discussions


marg:

Yes, many of us knew of Gary's health issues but you wouldn't know speaking with him.

You are right, I spoke with him last summer to place an order through his store and he was so pleasant and kind. It was his nature. Similar to my dad, fighting a battle, but strong!

Enjoy that special dulcimer! 


updated by @susie: 03/19/23 06:16:52AM
Susie
@susie
03/17/23 08:57:47PM
494 posts

Gary Sager


OFF TOPIC discussions

Like Robin, I knew of his health issues. Gary was such a pleasant person, whether seeing him at festivals or conducting business with him through his store. I'm sad to hear of his passing. We lost another great one. sniffcry

Susie
@susie
02/19/23 12:52:43PM
494 posts

Black Mountain Instruments Feb 2023


Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions

Total agreement that David has recognized this is what he needs. I commend him on his decision and wish him nothing but a bright future.

Susie
@susie
01/23/23 08:28:43AM
494 posts

Wanted: Case for a Galax Mountain Dulcimer


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...


Another suggestion  is to contact Richard Ash who owns Folkcraft. They do all their cases in their shop and Richard is always up for a challenge and is very accommodating. He welcomes custom orders (new ideas) on his dulcimers and I'm sure he'd have no problem doing a case that would fit your Galax dulcimer. His cases are well padded and very nicely done. If you had him do an envelope style case, it would be more streamlined from what you have. I'd give him a call. 

https://www.folkcraft.com/pages/contact-us


updated by @susie: 01/23/23 08:30:07AM
Susie
@susie
01/22/23 01:11:21PM
494 posts

Wanted: Case for a Galax Mountain Dulcimer


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...

Just a thought, have you called Toni and Steve Binkley (the daughter and SIL running the Dulcimer Bag Lady business) and asked if they could do something  custom for you, more streamlined?

Susie
@susie
01/22/23 01:06:36PM
494 posts

Wanted: Case for a Galax Mountain Dulcimer


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...


Kimberly Burnette-Dean:

The dulcimer is 39” in length, 11” wide, and 4.5” deep.

Thank you for that. Unfortunately, the one I had in mind won't work for you. Hopefully, you'll get some good suggestions still. 


updated by @susie: 01/22/23 01:11:06PM
Susie
@susie
01/22/23 08:59:14AM
494 posts

Wanted: Case for a Galax Mountain Dulcimer


FOR SALE:instruments/music items/CDs/Wanted to Buy...

What is the width and length of your dulcimer? That may help. I have one in mind, but not knowing the dimensions, I'm not going to recommend it unless I know it would work.


updated by @susie: 01/22/23 09:02:52AM
Susie
@susie
01/17/23 07:00:00PM
494 posts

CBS piece on Troublesome Creek Stringed Instruments


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions


Thank you for sharing, what a great program. 

https://troublesomecreekguitars.com/


updated by @susie: 01/17/23 07:02:09PM
Susie
@susie
01/12/23 10:57:49AM
494 posts

to get chromatic or not


Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions


Sam Edelston:

While respecting and loving dulcimers' traditional, diatonic roots, there's no reason why the instrument needs to be limited to that.

I know some people question whether or not a chromatic should be called a dulcimer, but the instrument doesn't care what you call it.

So, again, whether you should get a chromatic depends on what you want to do with it. It's totally okay to get one, and it's totally okay not to.

Sam

Well said, Sam. 

This is my approach to music and all my instruments.  Explore and play for yourself and don't try to fit inside a box created by others. 

ErthLing, have fun!


updated by @susie: 01/12/23 10:59:31AM
Susie
@susie
11/25/22 01:25:34PM
494 posts

Introduce Yourself!


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Welcome Mivo. You have a beautiful McSpadden and it sounds like you are well on your way. I agree to take the time to find your style. There are many paths to follow; all are good. 

Regarding fingerpicking vs flatpicking, I have a similar background.  I've been fingerpicking guitar since 1973, and also fingerpick banjo, both with fingerpicks. However, I've chosen to follow the chord-melody route on dulcimer, with a flatpick. I am enjoying  that, despite my fingerpicking experience.  It's all about you and your own choices.  

Susie
@susie
11/20/22 11:49:20AM
494 posts

Show Us Your Pets!


OFF TOPIC discussions

Milo and Frankie are real cuties!

Daffer and Annabell....gotta love the goats!

Susie
@susie
11/11/22 06:50:27PM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

ocean-daughter:

Well, I have another one!  I found it on the goodwill site.  It looks like a Black Mountain, but has no label. 

I'll post some pictures of some of my dulcimers a little later. 

This one came with only one string (the bass string); also the saddle is a bit damaged and the nut is a bit out of place.  So I'm going to take it to my favorite luthier down the road. 

Neat, congrats! Would love to see pics when you have time.

Susie
@susie
11/07/22 06:39:16AM
494 posts

Show Us Your Pets!


OFF TOPIC discussions

"Always the best hello, but also the hardest goodbye" ... says it well.

Susie
@susie
11/04/22 08:54:39AM
494 posts

Show Us Your Pets!


OFF TOPIC discussions

Strumelia:

Hugs to all who are missing their sweet furry companions... dog1 kittywink heartbeat



brokenheart grphug

Susie
@susie
11/04/22 07:37:01AM
494 posts

Show Us Your Pets!


OFF TOPIC discussions

We lost our beautiful Cody on January 5, 2022, just before his 14th birthday. 

041.jpg

A sensitive, loving, and funny boy. 

As you all know, losing a pet is very difficult. They live on in our hearts. We got this canvas print, which was so appropriate for him.

IMG_20220210_104043722.jpg

Susie
@susie
10/31/22 11:21:24AM
494 posts

Show Us Your Pets!


OFF TOPIC discussions

Fharlm:

My handsome fella

He IS handsome!

Susie
@susie
10/26/22 06:55:20PM
494 posts

Dulcimer Moving when I play


Playing and jamming difficulties...HELP ME!

As Dusty said, this is a common solution. When I first started playing dulcimer, I took this approach. It worked well. The warnings given already about not storing the material against the wood of the dulcimer are valid. Eventually, I did move on to using straps, which works better for me now. Don't rule them out, maybe it's something that will work for you later. If not, using the non-slip liner is just fine. Another case for straps is at festivals when people are moving around you. A strap helps secure your dulcimer in the event of an accidental hit. 


updated by @susie: 10/26/22 08:27:33PM
Susie
@susie
10/24/22 08:38:56PM
494 posts

Show Us Your Pets!


OFF TOPIC discussions

vetrn7:

Buddy is my 11 year old Jack Russell terrier.

Such a cutie!

Susie
@susie
10/22/22 08:51:59PM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Lenard:

I have six.  My wife purchase a McSpadden for me years ago, a banjo style and four that I made myself.

Welcome to the forum! Thanks for sharing your dulcimer collection!

Susie
@susie
10/20/22 08:50:46AM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Ken Longfield:

Congratulations on acquiring your eighth dulcimer. It is beautiful and I am sure it sounds great. Enjoy.


Ken


"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."



Thanks Ken! It does sound really nice. BTW, it's only #7, I surely don't expect a #8. winker

Susie
@susie
10/19/22 06:15:46PM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Kendra Ward:

Hi Susie! That is so beautiful! As it turns out, Bob and I actually saw it a couple of weeks ago at Folkcraft. ☺️ Richard showed it to us and told us about the wood. I drooled over the cat paw sound holes…lol…🐾🐾 Congratulations!



Wow, that's neat to hear. I saw the pictures of your visit to Folkcraft. It's cool you saw it. Richard and crew picked out a fabulous set of Hickory for it. I've been playing it today. It has such a pretty voice and the sustain is remarkable.  Of course, the workmanship is fabulous. But one correction, they are dog paws, winker haha. I do think he has cat soundholes too. Since I've had 7 family dogs in my life so far (#8 is on the way), you can officially call me a dog person.

Susie
@susie
10/19/22 03:55:22PM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Dusty Turtle:

Looks beautiful.  Congrats on your new baby.

Thank so much, Dusty!

Susie
@susie
10/19/22 03:19:25PM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Update, I just added dulcimer #7. My last. winker giggle2

I've wanted a Hickory dulcimer for awhile now. This is it. A Folkcraft FSH. I also had Richard engrave a maple leaf at the 5th fret, since my husband and I have been producers of Michigan Pure Maple Syrup since 2008. I'm really happy with this dulcimer....it sounds great and plays perfectly.

FolkcraftFSH (1).jpg

FolkcraftFSH 2.jpg

FolkcraftFSH 3.jpg

Susie
@susie
10/14/22 01:24:25PM
494 posts

Walworth capo issue


Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions


Elderly Instruments in Lansing, MI was the first to start carrying them (when I got mine....I have two). They are made in Chelsea, MI, just south of me. Elderly has been my go-to store since 1974. They are very helpful. I would give Elderly a call and see if they can resolve this for you, by either getting you the dense rubber pieces you need, or getting you the contact information for the company. 

https://www.elderly.com/pages/contactus


updated by @susie: 10/14/22 01:25:49PM
Susie
@susie
09/24/22 08:52:52PM
494 posts

Youth Dulcimer Club


Dulcimer Resources:TABS/Books/websites/DVDs

Getting the younger generation excited about music is awesome, Erin. I started into music when I was 9 and have made it a life-long passion.

Susie
@susie
09/07/22 04:55:46PM
494 posts

North country dulcimers floating bridge replacement


Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions

Your new dulcimer is beautiful! Keep us posted after you get it set up and are able to play. I bet it's got a nice voice too.

Susie
@susie
09/03/22 03:03:14PM
494 posts

How Many Dulcimers Do You Own?


General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

squeakyhawk:

I own 3 guitars one which I got as a gift in 1978 made by Eagle and two Taylor’s.  I am learning Native American Flute…..I have too many to count.  I have a McNally Stick, Djembe. I was given a mountain dulcimer for a my birthday and I bought another mountain dulcimer while on vacation .  I am not sure if I have enough mountain dulcimers.  Lol 😆 Along with miscellaneous musical instruments 



There's a group of us here with interest in Native American Flutes. You fit right in with your growing collection of them, along with your growing collection of dulcimers. winker

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