I was at the Appalachian Dulcimer Heritage Day in Sperryville, VA when I learned of Gary's death. It is sad that another great builder and player is gone. I met him at a festival once. He was struggling that weekend and not feeling at all well. He made it through but was not his normal self. He made really nice dulcimers. He will be missed by many in the mountain dulcimer world. 

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

I met him in Lexington years ago. He made some very interesting pieces!

I was fortunate to get to hear Gary in Lancaster OH some years ago.  He was a great player and luthier.  

I played the tunes with Gary on one occasion. He played A & G tunes DAd tuning. Yeah like D tunes. Big tone, precise and clear picking. One the great dulcimer flatpickers. A gentleman. 

Thanks, Jon, for sharing that sad news.

I heard about this as well and was hoping to find an obituary before posting anything.

Gary was not just an amazingly innovative dulcimer player, but he and his brother also made wonderful and unique dulcimers.  The Gary Gallier website is still up, and I'd encourage everyone to explore it and learn about Gary's approach to flatpicking on the dulcimer in multiple keys.  There is lot's of tab available as well, although it ain't for beginners.

--
Dusty T., Northern California
Site Moderator

As a musician, you have to keep one foot back in the past and one foot forward into the future.
-- Dizzy Gillespie

Going by Bing's post, it looks like Gary Gallier just passed away. I loved his music and also the arrangements he and his brothers came up with.  I just thought I'd pass this information on to those who weren't aware.   take care of everybody from Jon Lilley