Mountain Dulcimer Immersive Workshop

The mountain dulcimer is a simple 3 or 4-stringed instrument with a unique fretboard, easy for the novice to successfully begin playing songs with just one lesson, and fun for all levels of musicians to explore. Considered an American folk instrument, the mountain dulcimer is associated with the southern Appalachian mountains and is related to some European instruments from Medieval times. Participants in this immersive program will break into three groups based on skill level: Beginner, Basic II, or Intermediate. The Beginner level is for those with little to no experience. Basic II is for those with some experience, who should be able to tune their dulcimer and play a few songs. Intermediate is for the player who is ready to explore different tunings and strumming techniques, and has some experience with chording and making harmonies on one string or more. Each group will have three master sessions, led by each of the instructors. Then all participants will come together for a duets session where each of the instructors will teach a duet and small ensembles will form to practice playing them. The day will close out with a special concert by the instructors for all participants.

You do not have to own an instrument--mountain dulcimers will be available for students to use. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet people, to learn a new instrument, or to reconnect with your dulcimer if you've been neglecting yours, and to play music with others. Instructors are active performers and educators and perennial favorites at many folk and dulcimer festivals in Michigan and around the country. They share a love of Appalachian, Celtic and Folk music, and are enthusiastic in sharing what they’ve learned.