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Dulcimers

Shop Dulcimers at West Music

Dulcimers are fretted stringed instruments, perfect for adding a folk vibe to your classroom. Evoking the charms of traditional Appalachia, it will simultaneously provide unique flair to performances. West Music brings you some of the finest models for students, including handcrafted Applecreek dulcimer instruments. For use in a class or therapy setting, weâ€™ve included convenient bulk sets which allow users to make their own! These dulcimer kits for students require no sharp tools to construct, and come with the frets pre-installed for convenience and optimal tone. Additionally, the fretted string instrument packages include playing manuals, straight-forward building instructions and extra strings to make the process as easy as possible. Best yet, these student dulcimers kits are durable enough to last for years.

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Your network or browser security settings may be blocking the products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

1. To place your order over the phone, call us Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm CST at 1-800-397-9378.

2. Shop via a different browser or network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).

3. Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist js.klevu.com.

4. You can also click here to access our digital catalog. Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product, click a link to navigate the product detail page (product pages will load normally), and add it to your cart. You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number (i.e. "400278") to the end of our URL (i.e. Westmusic.com/400278).

The Dulcimer

The dulcimer holds a special place in stringed instruments with its distinctive sweet sound and traditional roots. Known for its simplicity of play and ethereal tones, the dulcimer has enjoyed enduring popularity among folk musicians and enthusiasts. From the classic teardrop dulcimer to the accessible backyard music dulcimer, the hands-on experience of building a dulcimer kit, and the rich resonance of the dulcimer soundbox, this instrument offers a range of options for players of all levels. Let's delve into the nuances of the dulcimer and explore how these variants cater to diverse musical tastes and skills.

Versatility and Ease of Playing

The dulcimer, in its various forms, is celebrated for its versatility and ease of playing. Typically featuring three to five strings and played with a combination of strumming and fingerpicking, the dulcimer can produce a wide range of melodies and chords. Its diatonic fretboard simplifies the learning process, allowing even those with no musical experience to begin making music quickly. This accessibility, coupled with the dulcimer's enchanting sound, has made it a staple in folk music and beyond.

Types of Dulcimers

Dulcimers come in two basic forms: those with a soundbox and those without. It is recommended that you start with one that includes a soundbox. The dulcimer soundbox is the instrument's heart, responsible for its characteristic sonorous quality. The construction of the soundbox, including the choice of wood and its shape, significantly influences the dulcimer's tone, volume, and resonance. A well-crafted dulcimer soundbox can produce a rich, full sound that captivates listeners and players, making it a critical component for anyone seeking a high-quality dulcimer experience.

The Teardrop Dulcimer

The teardrop dulcimer, named for its distinctive shape, is one of the most recognizable forms of the instrument. Its elegant contours contribute to the dulcimer's visual appeal and enhance its sound, providing a warm, resonant quality that players cherish. The teardrop design offers a comfortable playing position, whether resting on the lap or against the body. It is a favorite for beginners and experienced musicians seeking a traditional dulcimer experience.

The Backyard Music Dulcimer

The backyard music dulcimer embodies the spirit of folk tradition—making music accessible to everyone. These dulcimers are designed for casual play and education, often made from cost-effective materials without sacrificing sound quality. The backyard music dulcimer is an excellent choice for schools, community groups, and anyone looking to explore the joys of dulcimer music without a significant investment. Its straightforward design encourages participation and shared musical experiences in informal settings.

The Dulcimer Experience

The dulcimer, in all its forms from the teardrop dulcimer to the backyard music dulcimer, the hands-on appeal of a dulcimer kit, and the rich acoustics of the dulcimer soundbox, offers a unique and rewarding musical experience. Its gentle sound, ease of play, and deep cultural heritage make the dulcimer a cherished instrument among those seeking to explore folk music's depths and beyond. Whether you are a seasoned musician or a curious newcomer, the dulcimer provides a gateway to a world of musical expression that is both profound and accessible.