Mark, Michael was actually the inspiration for this dulcimer (kind of a tribute to him). I can't imagine not using the thumb myself, but there are many who do just great without it. To me, if it's there and it works, let's use it! Thanks for checkin' it out!

Wow...thanks y'all! Dusty, what you say is true. My reasoning was showing a "working" example of why to finger the A chord as shown (leaving both the thumb and index finger free for other notes). In the brief time I had in the video, I had to make a decision on which direction to go for the continuity of the overall lesson. Showing that one note with the index finger was the direction that I chose. I opted not to point out the other so as not to "cloud the issue" with two approaches for those just starting out. The cool thing is that folks can read your comment and try it that way (one of those reasons why FOTMD is the wonderful place that it is). Patty, I am thrilled that this video has helped you to fix an issue! Mary...lemme see if I can attach a pic here. It's a Folkroots with all zebrawood on the outside. It has a Galax back, but the resonating back (the one on the inside) is walnut. Thank y'all VERY much for the comments!

Great video, John, just like its predecessor. Your choice of such a well known song to demonstrate this technique is brilliant, and you are clearly a thoughtful and patient teacher.

My only comment: the thumb can also be used on the middle string. There is one note here you get on the second fret of the middle string. You use your index finger here, which necessitates an ever so slight alteration in the angle of your wrist. But you could easily use your thumb there with no such angle change. Some folks even use their thumb to fret the bass string; I find that impossible myself. But the middle string is a different story, so viewers of this video may want to try their thumb for that note instead of their index finger. Maybe the thumb is more magical than even you thought.

Great work as always, John. You have performed a fine service to the dulcimer community. Thank you.

John K., I watched your video and will probably watch it a few more times. Yes, I had been using my index finger and thumb for the 1 0 1 chord. Today I started using my middle and ring finger. Sure is a bit different but I'm hanging in there. Thanks for your videos. They truly are helpful to me. By the way, thanks for showing me the wrist action for the strum. I don't have the pain inside my elbow like I was having. I don't mind having soreness in the muscle but don't like having pain in the joint. Thanks Teach!!!

Thanks Chuck and Steph! I'll be tickled if even one person starting out in the chord/melody style can find this video useful. The thumb can be an invaluable asset for playing if you have one and it works.

Thanks CB! I hope it'll be of help to someone out there.

Thanks Karen (and thanks for the camera work too)!