Forum Activity for @dulcinina

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Here's an update and intriguing history.  I bought the McSpadden after trying it out and questioning the young man selling it.  The guy's girlfriend's parents bought a house with partial contents and the dulcimer was among them.  No one knew what it was!  When the owner developed dementia, her children sold the house with several belongings left in it.  The new owners gave the guy the dulcimer for helping them move.

The dulcimer was found in the bedroom with the owners manual, warranty and books and music.  From the loose tab sheets left, I think she may have belonged to a dulcimer group as the music is the same that I've acquired from my groups.  I called the fellow back and asked him to find out the name of the people who sold the house.  Maybe I can locate them and find out more.

The dulcimer really sounded good despite of the aged strings.  I offered him $100 less than he was asking and he readily agreed, having no vested interest in the instrument.  We both were happy.  I polished it when I got home and ordered strings from McSpadden.  I don't care for the strings our local music store carries.

So, I'm learning patience while waiting for the strings and just admiring my new to me dulcimer.  Dulcinina

 

 

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Really nice find Richard. 

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Well, we kind of got off track here. I have to agree with Richard that $225 would be a more realistic price.

Ken

The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Very nice indeed. Happy for you.

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

This is a beauty!  Congratulations on a great addition!

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Great find, Richard. Enjoy your second hand dulcimer.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

 

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Wow! Looks beautiful!

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

When I use the term 'traditional' I am only referring to the folks in Appalachia and building their mountain dulcimers. The first standard sheets of plywood were not introduced in the U.S. until around 1928 for general building construction. I doubt they were available for building instruments (dulcimers) in those remote geographical areas until later years. This is not a commentary on the quality of sound of plywood, just an observation of what may be traditional and more contemporary. 

updated by @kusani: 10/23/18 08:47:59AM

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

I agree, Richard, a really nice find.  Good for you!

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Don't know why the pictures loaded vertical. They were horizontal on my file on the computer from which I loaded them.

A Sweet Find

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

I recently found on ebay a "used" Mountain Valley Dulcimer Smokey River model. I prefer to call it "second hand" rather than used. This dulcimer came in a hard side case (chipboard) and appears to have been unplayed. I'm guessing someone purchased this intending to learn to play and then it was set aside.

There is not a mark on it. No indications the strings have ever been pressed down to the frets. No pick marks. It's made of beautifully grained book-matched walnut. I'll change out the friction tuners for some planetary tuners I have on hand harvested from another dulcimer. The real plus for me is that this '91 modern era dulcimer has a nice, clear, bright sound, which is what I prefer. I can see it becoming the dulcimer I use when playing with the dulcimer club where they like to use capos and other more modern playing styles.

My very first mountain dulcimer was a Mountain Valley Wildwood Mountain model, so this is a nice find for me.

updated by @richard-streib: 10/27/19 12:02:25PM

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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


updated by @brian-g: 10/22/18 11:04:21PM

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

'way back in the day, laminate or plywood was the 'carbon fiber' of the time -- amazing stuff it didn't have grain in the normal sense, it was strong and relatively lightweight, and capable of taking complex shapes if cut properly.

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Using a dulcimer made of laminate material (plywood) is not against the tradition. I have seen and handled many older dulcimers may of plywood.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

I was just surprised as I have always thought of him as wishing to pay tribute to the more traditional dulcimer lore. 

 

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

I do not know for sure, but I was told that he played a dulcimer made from a cherry laminate and liked it. Thus, when he designed his own model, he specified the cherry laminate. I am not sure where I read this. Since my files are not very organized, it may take me some time to find the original information.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

updated by @ken-longfield: 10/22/18 08:10:30PM

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Ken, do you know why Schnauffer requested laminates for side/back?

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Dusty, McSpadden stopped making dulcimers with laminate back and sides when the supplier stopped production of walnut and cherry plywood. I do not remember the year. It also was when the Schnauffer model was discontinued as David specified the cherry laminate for the back and sides of the model named after him.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Dulcinina,

Someone here such as @Ken-Longfield probably knows what year McSpadden stopped using ply and started using solid wood.  That is something to take into consideration, although I think we are too afraid of plywood.  You certainly want a solid soundboard, but I've played some wonderful instruments with ply sides and back.

It's rare that McSpaddens on Ebay go for much less than $300.

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

Dulciana, I agree that price seems a bit high. I did buy one made in '91 from an auction locally that was like new. The pick and noter were still sealed in a little kraft paper envelope. It appeared to have been purchased and never played. If you find one like that,  the $300.00 would make a good starting point to bargain for a selling price. Another concern to consider is if someone stored an unused instrument in a not so instrument friendly environment; such as a hot attic, a damp basement, or a non climate controlled rental storage unit. As for the plywood back, the quality of the plywood which McSpadden used was the very best and very stable over time. I would not allow that fact alone to cause much hesitation.

I would think a price $225.00 price range would be more reasonable.

Fortunately for those of us who look at used dulcimers, many were purchased and left largely unplayed. Sometimes someone picks one up at a yard or estate sale or a family member disposes of the estate without knowing a lot about a dulcimer. They can be real treasures when we find one.

Buying a used McSpadden questions

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

I'll be trying out a used McSpadden tomorrow that was made in 2000. I called the company and they said it's walnut and the back is made of plywood. It is not from a kit.  I read the posts from 3 years ago when someone asked about buying a used McSpadden.  What else should I consider when trying out this instrument.  He's asking $300.  Dulcinina

String gauge tolerance(s)

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

I'm glad to know about the Strothers string gauge guide. I can see that the gauge suggestions may be a little on the light side in view of what some folks have said, but it's a good reference to have when you're unsure. Thanks again to everyone for your responses.

motivation

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

Mountain dulcimers can play most any kind of music...check out Butch Ross, Stephen Seifert, Aaron O'Rourk, and Bing Futch among others (these just popped into my head--there's really a long list of mtn dulcimer players playing non-traditional dulcimer music or playing in non-traditional ways).  My advice:  play the music that's already in your heart or your head and see where it takes you!

Ron Gibson Dulcimers

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Diane, I have a beautiful Bonnie Carol dulcimer posted on this site in the for sale area - since you are in the market for another dulcimer.  Let's chat.  I may have the deal for you!  And I love Ron Gibson dulcimers as well!

Ron Gibson Dulcimers

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Early this year, I purchased a Ron Gibson Baritone dulcimer. Didn't care for the baritone, so I removed the heavy strings and installed 12/12/24 strings. I love it. Wonderful sounds, especially the bass string. I would never consider selling this special instrument.

However. Concerning an internal pickup. I much prefer the pickup on a McSpadden to the Pizzo..that Ron installs. I may be misspelling Pizzo..but that's close. The Pizzo is way to sensitive, you have to be very careful not to bump the area where it's installed.

With that in mind, I use it every week, playing out, with the pickup. Which means it's still manageable. Matter of being aware.

Good luck.

Ron Gibson Dulcimers

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That's a fine looking dulcimer, @Atilwi.  Ron Gibson has the best rosebud soundholes; they are just beautiful.  Happy strumming!

Ron Gibson Dulcimers

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Just got my Ron Gibson Kentucky dulcimer! It's my first one, so I don't have a lot of experience or anything, but I'm in love with it!

motivation

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

thanks terry i appreciate your words.

i appreciate all you who responded... thanks

after spending 25 years doing Renaissance Faires and finally giving it up this year, i bought a mountain dulcimer.... cause i always liked the sound and the ease of playing or the complexity of playing. 

It may all be due to the change of life style... So many friends on the faire circuit both performers and patrons. to now really nothing... no longer anything to inspire and require practicing. I guess also i am tired of "trad"music.

i have been wondering back and listening to music from my youth.... i have been finding inspiration in "Music from Big Pink" and "the Basement Tapes" diddling with some of the tunes and thinking they may sound quite cool on MD.

So right now i am picking it up several times a week almost daily sometimes for hours sometimes just to see if a song i like is doable.  Still not sure where i am going ... baby steps.  i miss performing.

Comprehensive List of Dulcimer Festivals

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

As Steve says on his home page:The only way this works is if you spread the word. So, please, yell it from the mountain tops. Talk about it in your newsletters. Tell your friends. Share a link on Facebook. We’ve got to let people know this is here!

I probably am the only active mountain dulcimer at Paint Creek Folklore Society, but we have a few players who like to get hammered, so I sent it to our hammered dulcimer playing vice president and to our newsletter editor, oh & I'm going to send it to Wanda Degen & Deedee Tibbetts, who have an event coming up & also do workshops in the summer at Interlochen.

Let's spread the word (& thanks, Steve, like you I find past events give a planning guide when looking ahead).

motivation

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

J.P., hang in there. Unless this is medically related, "This too shall pass."

I believe it's pretty common to have a total burnout. Doesn't mean we are giving up, just taking a break with life. Sometimes we just need to take a deep free your mind and relax.

Sounds easy, huh? Not so. But you can do it. Why? Because you want too. That's why you brought it up on this forum.

Comprehensive List of Dulcimer Festivals

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

That looks good, Steve!  I'm imagining the site will get lots of traffic as it builds. 

Comprehensive List of Dulcimer Festivals

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

If you tried to sign up and had trouble, try again. We fixed it.

Comprehensive List of Dulcimer Festivals

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

That's cool Stephen!  

Comprehensive List of Dulcimer Festivals

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

And here it is: http://dulcimerevents.com . Are any of you interested in helping me test this website? Head on over there and submit an event. I hope everything's clear and easy. If not, post back to this forum topic or use the contact form. THANK YOU!

updated by @stephen-seifert: 10/17/18 03:34:46PM

Comprehensive List of Dulcimer Festivals

General mountain dulcimer or music discussions

I'm going to go with Strumelia's advice. I'm creating an online hub for dulcimer events. I'll get the details out when it's ready. 

Show Us Your Pets!

OFF TOPIC discussions

Here is Lacey on her 18th birthday. She used to be a big fan of my dulcimer playing but is mostly deaf now. She is still pretty active - likes to watch the leaves falling and the birds at the feeder. She can't jump like she used to and here is a picture of her using the steps I made for her so she can get up on the bed.

Show Us Your Pets!

OFF TOPIC discussions

Sally's looking sleek and sassy, Dave.     

String gauge tolerance(s)

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

There's also a funny paradox at play with this...  

Generally, you use a lighter gauge string to help you tune to a higher note without breaking, and a heavier gauge string to help you tune to a lower note without being floppy. That's why 'bass note strings' are heavier than melody strings.

However, there comes a point at which this can be taken too far.  For example, a super thin .008 string tuned to a high note may actually break because it's so thin, and perhaps a .009 in its place might not break for that same note.  Likewise, if you go to TOO heavy gauge in an effort to attain a real low note, the string will not fit properly in the nut and bridge slots, creating buzzes and becoming difficult to fret.

There's a practical range to work within when trying to balance the three factors that govern this:  1) scale length/VSL  2) note you are wanting to tune to, and 3) string gauge/thickness.  No matter how thin your string, you'll never be able to tune two octaves higher than typical DAdd on a normal sized dulcimer. And no matter how thick your string, you'll never be able to tune a normal sized dulcimer to the same low note you could on an orchestra's standup double bass viol for example.  Stringed instruments are certain sizes for a reason- they are designed to be tuned somewhere within a certain reasonable range of notes for their size.

String gauge tolerance(s)

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

I used to be mystified about string gauges until I found the Strothers string guide online. Just go to strothers.com and choose string gauge calculator under the dulcimer tab. You just plug in the note you want and the VSL and bang! it gives you a gauge. I think the general feeling is that the gauge suggestions are a little light but this is something that varies from player to player. At least it gives you a place to start. I have also found that through experience, I can judge by feel when I am pushing my luck with a string. As you tune up, just press on the string to feel how much give there is. If it's starting to feel tight, you would be wise to back off.

Hope this helps, Barb

How does your pet react to your Dulcimer playing?

OFF TOPIC discussions

Our previous cat really liked me to play the dulcimer. She'd walk over to it and meow at me then lay down when I'd start playing.

The new cat, Sally, at first didn't show any interest the first few months when she was a little kitten. Maybe it was scary to her.

Sally is 7 months old now. Now when I play she comes over to me squeaking and rubbing my legs. I haven't figured out if she is saying she likes it, if if she's saying, "if you're not doing anything worthwhile give me a hug..."