todd metcalf

Hello again Todd. As Richard pointed out 4 string dulcimers usually have a doubled melody string but can also be played with four equidistant strings (spacing between the strings). I have many 4 string dulcimers and on most of them I've taken one of the melody strings off. I prefer playing with 3 strings. Of course there are 5 and 6 string dulcimers as well. With four equidistant strings and with each string tuned to a different pitch you can play full chords which appeals to chord melody players. I play mostly noter style these days which is why I like the 3 string dulcimer. At almost 78 I find it easier on my hand to play that way rather than trying to make chords and change chords. Best wishes as you continue on your dulcimer journey.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

Hi Todd. A good beginning dulcimer is one that is playable. By that I mean that the strings are not too high off the fret board making them easy to press down. Today most dulcimers come with "extra" frets, notably the 6 1/2 and 13 1/2. I don't recommend any more than that for beginners. On four string dulcimers I look for nuts and bridges that are notched for by double melody string and four equidistant stringing. Personally, I prefer to play with only three strings.

As to brand, that depends upon your budget. Dulcimers made by Roosebeck and Applecreek tend to need work to make them playable. The quality of these instruments from overseas is from shoddy to almost playable. Good American made instruments are Folkcraft including Folkroots, and McSpadden, but new ones are expensive. You can find good ones in the used market. Others are New Traditions, Ron Gibson, Cedar Creek, T.K. O'Brien, and there are others. A good place to try out dulcimers is at a festival or, if there is a dulcimer club in your area, members will often let you try their dulcimer. I noticed that there was a David Lynch student dulcimer on eBay the other day. If you can find one of those they are excellent beginner instruments. Unfortunately, Dave died a couple of years ago so new ones are no longer available.

Feel free to contact me any other questions you may have. This is my fiftieth year of playing dulcimer. My first one is one I built as I couldn't afford to by a new instrument back then. The parts cost about $25 back then and I had access to an excellent teacher who led me through the process of building a dulcimer.

Best wishes on your search for an instrument.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

Hi Todd, and welcome to the wonderful world of the Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer.  It's a good place to come, spend some time, learn about the dulcimer, and to meet some good people.

Ben

Hey, Todd, welcome aboard. Glad ya found us.

Welcome ToddMetcalf to Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer. So glad you joined. An extra big welcome to  a beginning player. This is a knowledgeable and friendly forum. Look around, Join in some of the discussions. Learn all about the dulcimer. Make many new dulcimer friends. And be sure to ask questions as you have them.

Welcome to FOTMD, Todd. It's good to have you aboard. This is a wonderful community of mountain dulcimer enthusiasts. Let us know if you have any questions as you begin your dulcimer journey. I look forward to you participation here.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."