French Creek Fiber Arts
KNIT  -  CROCHET  -  SPIN  -  WEAVE

Home
Instruction
Showcase
Newsletter Sign Up
Contact Me

Please bookmark this site and return often!

HAMMERED DULCIMER INSTRUCTION

My dulcimer, built in 1986 by Michael Allen of Cloud Nine Dulcimers

What is a Hammered Dulcimer?

       The hammered dulcimer originated with pre-biblical Middle Eastern peoples.  Variations of it are found in nearly every culture in the world.  It is very simple in nature, being a hollow box with metal strings stretched taut across it, played with wooden mallets.  Its undampened strings vibrate sympathetically with the note being played, giving it a characteristic harmonic ring, not unlike that of a harp.

I want to learn -- do I need an instrument?

        In short, yes.  Like any other musical instrument, the most rapid improvement comes with daily practice.  Playing dulcimer is both an intellectual and a motor skill and playing once a week at the teacher's studio just won't cut it!  Since dulcimers are not mainstream band or orchestra instruments, most music stores do not carry them.  If you'd like to locate an instrument a good place to start is The Official WWW Hammered Dulcimer Page.  If you arrange lessons with me I'll be happy to help you in your search.

Who is the instructor?

    Peggy Strang (that's me) has been playing since 1982.  With a childhood background in piano, oboe, and recorder, I'm largely self-taught on the dulcimer, although I have attended workshops with many of the luminaries of the dulcimer world over the years.   I play a wide variety of styles, and do my own arranging.  I've been teaching for over ten years, and spent two years on the faculty of Cleveland's Irish Music Academy.  I've worked with students from beginning to advanced, with or without previous musical experience, by ear or from the printed page.

What's the cost?

    Weekly half-hour lessons are $17.50, payable a month in advance.  For advanced students, or students traveling long distances, 1 hour lessons every other week are an option. 

How do I get started?

    Drop me an email or phone (440) 934-1236 to set up a mutually agreeable time.

What do I need to bring?

    Your instrument, hammers and stand for starters.  Other useful items to bring to lessons are: 

• a notebook for keeping track of assignments
• a tape recorder with a dedicated tape for lesson material
• an electronic tuner and pickup (if you have them)
• a list of tunes you'd like to learn
• any dulcimer books you've been working with

Thanks for your interest!  Looking forward to hearing from YOU soon!

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]

Send mail to pegweaver@centurytel.net with questions or comments about this web site.