Sure Mary; here goes. Jim Good dulcimers are 5 string: a bass pair tuned G and b, a middle string tuned D, and a melody pair also tuned D. So you have a 1-5-5 tuning (G-D-D) with the addition of the 3 (the b.) The late Alan Freeman (who only played Jim Good's instruments) separated that bass pair just a little so he could fret them individually, but still, if he wanted to, fret the pair with one finger. I'm fretting the pair with one finger on this one, but on other songs I play those strings individually.
If this is clear as mud, let me know and I'll post a pic of an unmodified one and this one.
Rob, would you mind explaining this a little more? "I separated the bass pair like Alan Freeman did, tho' in this video I'm only using them as a pair."
Robin T. - Great eye/ear there. Yep, it's an all poplar Jim Good I found in a pawn shop in Morgantown. I separated the bass pair like Alan Freeman did, tho' in this video I'm only using them as a pair. I use it with the band for G tunes and have put away the carved archtop.
Peter - if'n my playing brought even a trace of a smile to your face, I am satisfied.
Rick - it's become one of my favorite tunes. Thanks
Sam. The tail is Simba's. I don't think he's quite as musical as he thinks he is.
Thanks, Patty & Dulcinina. I love the tune, too. It's become one of my favorite waltzes. Simba's tail was swishing there for a while and Sassy at the door. None of the "regular" porch cats were there.
Sure Mary; here goes. Jim Good dulcimers are 5 string: a bass pair tuned G and b, a middle string tuned D, and a melody pair also tuned D. So you have a 1-5-5 tuning (G-D-D) with the addition of the 3 (the b.) The late Alan Freeman (who only played Jim Good's instruments) separated that bass pair just a little so he could fret them individually, but still, if he wanted to, fret the pair with one finger. I'm fretting the pair with one finger on this one, but on other songs I play those strings individually.
If this is clear as mud, let me know and I'll post a pic of an unmodified one and this one.
Rob, would you mind explaining this a little more? "I separated the bass pair like Alan Freeman did, tho' in this video I'm only using them as a pair."
Rob, love this super relaxed recording. Sweet sound, fun tune! And the crickets were singing along!
Robin T. - Great eye/ear there. Yep, it's an all poplar Jim Good I found in a pawn shop in Morgantown. I separated the bass pair like Alan Freeman did, tho' in this video I'm only using them as a pair. I use it with the band for G tunes and have put away the carved archtop.
Peter - if'n my playing brought even a trace of a smile to your face, I am satisfied.
Rick - it's become one of my favorite tunes. Thanks
Sam. The tail is Simba's. I don't think he's quite as musical as he thinks he is.
Jim - thanks. Wartz next month! Can't wait
Way to go, Rob. Very nice.
Nice one Rob. Your kitty has better rhythm than I do !
Thanks Rob. I was feeling a bit miserable, but that cheered me up no end.
There's nothing like porch-play, Rob, and your waltz on a porch in WV played on a WV-made instrument is just right.
Thanks, Patty & Dulcinina. I love the tune, too. It's become one of my favorite waltzes. Simba's tail was swishing there for a while and Sassy at the door. None of the "regular" porch cats were there.
That's another good one, Rob! Was interesting seeing the furry tales flash across the video, LOL
That was great and I love the tune. Wish I were as relaxed as you look when playing. Oh, and liked your furry audience. dulcinina