I don't think the difference between 24 and 26.5 is that huge. Long stretches like a 1-2-4 chord might be about 1/2 inch further. I would say that hand stretching exercises may be a good way to overcome that extra little bit of reach you'll need.
Personally, I prefer shorter VSL instruments for chording, but when I do play longer dulcimers, it doesn't take too long for my hands to get used to reaching just a little bit further.

I'm assuming you mostly play in DAd tuning?
Are you able to concentrate more on playing the melody notes without necessarily playing the full chords of the song you are playing? Perhaps some of the 3 finger chords you use can be played with only two of the strings strummed, avoiding strumming the third note of the chord altogether?

Another thought- people who do what's called 'fingerdancing' are sort of replicating noter style play but using their fingers .  This can be done over several strings, and you can learn to incorporate a little of that style and perhaps train yourself to play more the melody and less full chording. Not sure if i described this well or not.

I'll also mention that doing hand and finger stretching exercises actually CAN over time extend the distance that your fingers can stretch to make a chord. And such hand stretching exercises are supposed to be good for your hands and their dexterity.

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Hi Folks,      

Hope everyone is doing well.  I am interested in suggestions for someone who normally plays a 24 to max 25 VSL dulcimer and wish to get a specific instrument that has a 26.5 VSL.  As much as I appreciate noter style of playing, I primarily am a chord melody player.  I am looking for any suggestions as to alternative ways to play a longer VSL without killing my hands.  Thanks in advance for any suggestions that you are able to offer.  

updated by @debi: 08/07/25 04:42:31PM