WHAT IS MY PLAYING LEVEL?
Beginner – has little or no knowledge of the hammered dulcimer.
Advancing Beginner – can tune the HD, and can pick out melodies to a few tunes
Intermediate – plays in a variety of styles, can pick up new tunes by ear or by reading music, knows some basic chords (D, C, G, A), has started arranging tunes
Advanced – Plays a variety of styles very comfortably, accomplished musician, teacher, performer
FAQ
Do I need to know how to play before I can attend the workshop?
Absolutely not! Even if you have only had your instrument a short time and can only find a few melodies by ear, you will get a LOT from this workshop. You will also meet others in the area that have a dulcimer and want to learn to play. This is a great opportunity to meet other dulcimer enthusiasts, learn some tips and tricks, and have lots of fun and a very relaxed atmosphere.
What if I still have trouble tuning my dulcimer?
That's OK! Just arrive a little early and I'll help you get tuned up. Then, one of our first topics of discussion will be Tuning Tips!
What if I don't have an electronic tuner?
I have a few on hand for sale or loan, including the little alligator clip so you can tune in a noisy room.
What if I can't read music?
You don't need to. All the tunes I teach we will learn to hum or sing first, then I'll show you how to find the tune on YOUR instrument.
What if I NEED written music?
I'll provide written music for all the tunes I teach, but the emphasis will be learning by ear.
I'm not musical, I've never played an instrument, I don't sing, all I can play is the radio, etc
Not to worry. You will still have FUN and probably discover that you ARE musical (truly tone deaf people are very rare), sometimes NOT knowing another instrument is helpful because you won't be tempted to "translate". If you sing to the radio in the car, sang to your babies, dog, cat, spouse, then you can play the dulcimer!
What if I don't have a stand for my dulcimer?
I have one extra stand, or most dulcimers have a fitting on the back for a table top dowel. Just let me know ahead of time and I'll fix you up!
What if I can't stay all day?
That's fine. The morning session will give you plenty of information to take home.
What if I can't remember everything we cover?
Bring a small battery powered recorder, or you can use mine!
What if everyone else already knows more than I do?
Then you will learn more than anyone and get the most bang for your buck! Plus, you will make new friends and meet others that enjoy making music on the dulcimer.
