Old Town School of Folk Music Offers Dulcimer Classes
Contents
If you’re looking to take up a new musical instrument, the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago offers dulcimer classes for all skill levels.
Introduction
Dulcimer classes are now available at the Old Town School of Folk Music! The dulcimer is a stringed instrument that is easy to learn and play. It is a great instrument for beginners of all ages. Dulcimer classes are offered on Tuesdays at 6:30pm and Saturdays at 10:30am.
What is the Dulcimer?
The dulcimer is a stringed instrument that is often classified as a zither. It has a trapezoidal shape and some dulcimers have more than one pair of strings. Dulcimers can have either 3 or 4 strings, with 4 stringed instruments being the most common. The strings are plucked with the player’s fingers and the instrument is held in the lap. The dulcimer originated in the mountain regions of Europe, specifically the Balkans, and it is often used in folk music.
History of the Dulcimer
The dulcimer is a stringed instrument that first gained popularity in the Appalachian Mountains. It is typically played with the instrument laid flat on the lap, and the strings are struck with small hammers. The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago offers dulcimer classes for those interested in learning more about this unique instrument.
Where did the Dulcimer come from?
Most likely originating in Persia, the dulcimer was brought to Europe by the Crusaders in the 11th and 12th centuries. It quickly became a popular instrument in England, Ireland, Germany, and France. The English called it the “dulcimer,” the Germans named it the hackbrett (chopping board), and in France it was known as the tympanon. Dulcimers were also made in Slovenia, Hungary, Romania, and Greece.
The first dulcimers in America were brought over by German and Scottish immigrants in the early 1700s. By 1800, dulcimers could be found all along the Appalachian Mountains from Pennsylvania to Georgia. The settlers built them from whatever materials were available: cherry wood for the soundboard, Cherry bark for the ribs and back, maple or poplar wood for the sides and ends, willow or butternut wood for the pinblock (a plank of wood with holes drilled into it that each string is wrapped around and held in place with a tuning peg).
How has the Dulcimer evolved?
The dulcimer, also known as the Appalachian dulcimer or mountain dulcimer, is a stringed instrument with a trapezoidal soundboard; it is usually held upright in the player’s lap. The word “dulcimer” comes from the Greek melos, meaning “song,” and Latin duo-decim, meaning “ten-two.”
The first dulcimers were likely made in Persia or the Middle East and were brought to Europe by Crusaders in the 13th century. These instruments had from two to four strings and were played with small hammers. The dulcimer reached its peak of popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries, when it was played by professional musicians in towns and cities across Europe.
In America, the dulcimer was brought over by German and Scottish immigrants in the 18th century. It became particularly popular in Appalachia, where it was used to accompany folk dances such as square dancing and clogging. Over time, Appalachian musicians began to experiment with the dulcimer’s design, resulting in a larger number of strings and a unique “hammer-on” playing style.
The Appalachian dulcimer is now considered a symbol of American folk music, and it continues to be popular among amateur and professional musicians alike.
How to Play the Dulcimer
The dulcimer is a stringed instrument that is typically played with the hands. It is a relatively simple instrument to learn how to play. The Old Town School of Folk Music offers dulcimer classes for those who want to learn how to play this instrument.
What are the basic techniques?
There are a few basic techniques that you need to know in order to play the dulcimer:
-Plucking
-Strumming
-Bowing
-Picking
What are some easy songs to learn?
Although “Mary Had a Little Lamb” might be one of the first tunes you think of when you imagine someone playing the dulcimer, this isn’t one of the easiest songs to learn on this instrument. If you’re a complete beginner, try one of these three songs:
“Scarborough Fair” is a traditional English ballad that dates back to the 16th century. The melody is relatively simple, and there are many different versions of the lyrics. You can find the chords for this song online or in a dulcimer chord book.
“Tom Dooley” is an American folk song that was popularized in the 1950s by The Kingston Trio. The melody is catchy and relatively easy to play, and the lyrics tell the story of Tom Dula, who was accused of murdering his lover. The chords for this song are also readily available online or in a chord book.
“Wildwood Flower” is a popular American folk song that was most famously recorded by The Carter Family in 1928. This version features simple chord progressions and a lovely melody, making it a great choice for beginners. You can find the chords for this song online or in a dulcimer chord book.
Dulcimer Classes at Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago is now offering dulcimer classes! Dulcimer is a stringed instrument that is often played with a pick or by plucking the strings. It is a great instrument for beginners because it is easy to learn and play.
What is the class schedule?
Old Town School of Folk Music offers a variety of dulcimer classes throughout the year. Check the class schedule for upcoming offerings.
What is the cost of the class?
Dulcimer classes at Old Town School of Folk Music are available for all levels of experience, from beginners to those who have been playing for years. The cost of the class is $210 for non-members and $180 for members.
Conclusion
The Old Town School of Folk Music offers dulcimer classes for all levels of students, from beginners to those who want to learn more advanced techniques. The class sizes are small, so you can get individualized attention from your instructor, and the school provides all of the necessary materials for you to use during class.
