The dulcimer is a striking and unique instrument known for its resonant, melodic tones and distinctive construction. While many might recognize it from folk or traditional music, this instrument carries with it a rich history and varied cultural significance. Though lesser known than some of the more mainstream instruments, the dulcimer has experienced a resurgence in interest, particularly among music enthusiasts drawn to its simple yet beautiful sound. This article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the dulcimer, its history, design, how it is played, and its place within various music genres.
What Is a Dulcimer?
The dulcimer is a stringed instrument that typically consists of a narrow wooden body with a series of strings stretched across its length. It is most often played by plucking, strumming, or tapping the strings with the fingers or a pick, producing a mellow and soothing tone.
Dulcimers are usually classified into two broad categories: the hammered dulcimer and the mountain dulcimer, which differ in how they are played and their general design. The hammered dulcimer is played by striking the strings with small hammers, while the mountain dulcimer is played by plucking or strumming the strings, sometimes with a pick or with the fingers themselves. Both types share a similar family tree of stringed instruments but offer different sounds and playing experiences.
The dulcimer is often associated with folk music and Appalachian traditions, though variations of the instrument have appeared throughout the world in diverse cultures. It is a versatile instrument found in a variety of settings, from casual home performances to professional concert halls. Its sound is soothing, yet it can convey a range of emotions, from joy to melancholy, depending on how it is played.
History and Origins of the Dulcimer
The origins of the dulcimer are somewhat debated, but it is generally accepted that the instrument has roots in ancient Persia, where similar instruments were used thousands of years ago. Early ancestors of the dulcimer were likely versions of the “Santur,” a trapezoidal-shaped hammered dulcimer that dates back to Mesopotamia. This type of instrument spread through Europe and Asia, evolving along the way.
In Europe, the hammered dulcimer found a significant place in the folk music traditions of many countries. However, the dulcimer that most people are familiar with today, especially in North America, is the mountain dulcimer. This version was likely developed in the Appalachian region during the early 19th century, with influences from the European hammered dulcimer and local traditions. It gained widespread popularity in the United States, especially in the Ozarks and Appalachian regions, where it was used as a home instrument, prized for its simplicity and emotional resonance.
Over the years, the dulcimer has undergone a number of transformations in both design and play style. The mountain dulcimer, in particular, became a mainstay in folk music, enjoyed for its accessibility to amateur musicians and its distinct sound. Despite periods of decline, the dulcimer has experienced a revival, particularly among folk music enthusiasts and those interested in the history and traditions of the Appalachian culture.
Structure and Design of the Dulcimer
The dulcimer, especially the mountain dulcimer, has a unique structure that sets it apart from many other stringed instruments. It typically features a long, narrow body with a raised fingerboard, where the strings are placed.
The Mountain Dulcimer
The mountain dulcimer generally has three to four strings and is played on the lap, making it one of the most portable stringed instruments. The shape of the body is often teardrop or hourglass-shaped, and the instrument is usually played while seated. The strings of the mountain dulcimer are tuned to a specific scale, often in DAA (a common tuning for beginners) or DAD, which allows players to create harmonious melodies with relative ease.
The Hammered Dulcimer
In contrast, the hammered dulcimer is larger and features more strings—typically between 12 to 36 strings, though some variations may have even more. The body of the hammered dulcimer is typically trapezoidal, and it is played by striking the strings with small mallets or hammers. This instrument is often positioned on a stand and played while standing or sitting, as the player uses the mallets to tap the strings, creating a sparkling, bright sound.
Material Used in Construction
Dulcimers are crafted from a range of materials, with wood being the primary construction material for both the body and the fingerboard. Common types of wood include spruce (often used for the top), maple, cherry, and walnut. The wood is carefully selected for its acoustic properties to enhance the resonance and tone of the instrument. The strings themselves can be made from metal wire or synthetic materials, with modern dulcimers often using steel or bronze wire for durability and clarity of sound.
Comparison to Similar Instruments
The dulcimer shares similarities with other stringed instruments, such as the zither and the guitar. While both the zither and the dulcimer are played by plucking or striking the strings, the dulcimer’s unique feature is its tuning and the way it is traditionally played, either by hammering or plucking, which distinguishes it from instruments like the zither or harp.
How Does a Dulcimer Sound?
The sound of a dulcimer is often described as soothing, sweet, and resonant. The tones can range from soft and melodic to bright and sparkling, depending on the playing technique and the instrument’s design.
The mountain dulcimer tends to produce a warm, soft sound, perfect for melodic lines and harmony. It’s often used in folk music for its mellow and easy-to-play qualities. Its tuning options also give it a unique tonal palette, with the player able to create a variety of chord progressions and melodies without the complexity of other stringed instruments.
The hammered dulcimer, on the other hand, produces a much brighter, sharper tone, with a crisp percussive quality when the strings are struck with mallets. The sound is often more resonant and expansive, capable of filling larger spaces in live performances. When played skillfully, the hammered dulcimer can produce a captivating sound that feels like a cross between a piano and a harp.
How to Play the Dulcimer
Playing the Mountain Dulcimer
Playing the mountain dulcimer is relatively straightforward, making it a great choice for beginners. The instrument is typically played while resting it on the player’s lap or on a table. To play, the player uses their right hand to either pluck or strum the strings, while the left hand is used to press down on the frets. Many players use a pick to strum, though some prefer using their fingers for a softer sound.
Playing the Hammered Dulcimer
The hammered dulcimer requires the use of mallets to strike the strings, making it a more physically demanding instrument. Players need to carefully control their strike and rhythm to create the desired tones. The mallets are usually held in both hands, and the player uses them to strike the strings in various patterns. The hammered dulcimer is often tuned to a pentatonic scale, and the player must be aware of the specific tuning of the instrument to produce harmonious sounds.
Dulcimer in Music Genres
The dulcimer is most commonly associated with folk music, particularly the traditions of the Appalachian Mountains in the United States. It is a staple in American folk, country, and bluegrass genres, where its soothing sound complements the storytelling nature of the music.
However, the dulcimer has also found its place in various other music genres. The hammered dulcimer, with its bright, resonant tones, has appeared in classical music, especially in compositions that require a unique, sparkling texture. It can also be found in contemporary genres, such as new age, experimental, and world music, where its haunting sound adds depth and emotional nuance to musical compositions.
Notable Dulcimer Players
Throughout history, there have been a number of notable dulcimer players who have contributed to the instrument’s development and popularity. For the mountain dulcimer, musicians such as Jean Ritchie and Donald Zepp are known for their influential roles in popularizing the instrument within folk music circles. Ritchie, in particular, is regarded as the “mother” of the mountain dulcimer and brought the instrument into public consciousness with her recordings and performances.
The hammered dulcimer also has prominent players, such as the virtuoso performer and composer, Ivo Papasov, who helped to popularize the instrument in world and jazz fusion music. His complex playing style brought the dulcimer to a global audience.
Choosing a Dulcimer: What to Consider
Beginner vs. Professional Models
When choosing a dulcimer, it’s important to consider your level of experience. Beginner models tend to be simpler in construction and easier to play, often coming pre-tuned with fewer strings. These models are typically more affordable and can be a great choice for someone just starting out with the instrument.
Professional models, on the other hand, offer more customization options and superior sound quality. They are often crafted from higher-quality woods and feature more advanced tuning systems and string configurations.
Valve Types, Bore Size, Material, Finish
For the mountain dulcimer, it’s crucial to consider factors such as the materials used in construction, as well as the finish of the instrument. A well-crafted mountain dulcimer should have a smooth fingerboard and carefully finished wood that enhances the instrument’s tonal qualities.
For the hammered dulcimer, players should pay attention to the type of wood used in the construction of the body, as this can affect the resonance. Mallets also play an important role in how the dulcimer sounds, and choosing the right mallet for your playing style is an essential part of the experience.
Conclusion
The dulcimer, whether hammered or mountain, is a versatile and enchanting instrument that has carved out a significant place in the musical world. Its unique sound, rich history, and simplicity make it an appealing choice for musicians of all skill levels. Whether you are drawn to the folk music traditions of the Appalachian region or you are exploring the dulcimer as a unique addition to your musical repertoire, this instrument offers a unique experience for both players and listeners alike.
