The dulcimer is a stringed musical instrument played with small mallets (hammered dulcimer) or by plucking the strings, as in the Appalachian dulcimer. Its origins are uncertain, but it is believed to have been developed in Western Europe during the Middle Ages. The name “dulcimer” derives from the Latin words “dulcis” (sweet) and “melos” (song), suggesting that the instrument was originally used to play sweet and harmonious melodies. It likely evolved from a similar instrument already widespread in the East during earlier periods, known as the Santur.
The dulcimer was very popular in Western Europe during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and was often played in churches to accompany religious singing. Numerous artistic representations, such as paintings and frescoes, depict dulcimer players and date back to these historical periods. Over time, the instrument evolved into various forms and styles depending on the country in which it was introduced. For example, in Germany, a crank dulcimer with a complex mechanism was developed, which became known in Italy as the hurdy-gurdy.
The dulcimer was also introduced to the United States by European settlers, where it was embraced by the African American community and helped give rise to new musical styles such as blues and bluegrass. Today, the dulcimer remains popular in the U.S. and is played at various events such as festivals, gatherings, and folk music concerts.
This stringed instrument has a long history and wide geographical distribution. It has been adapted into various forms and styles depending on the country where it was played and continues to be popular worldwide.
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Evolution and Technique
The body of the dulcimer is usually made of a wooden board or other material, onto which the strings, bridge, and tailpiece are mounted. The body can take various shapes, such as a rounded soundbox or a rectangular box.
The strings of the dulcimer are typically made of metal and are stretched between the bridge and the tailpiece. The bridge is a wooden or plastic component that keeps the strings under tension and transmits their vibrations to the body of the instrument. The tailpiece is made of metal or other materials and anchors the strings at the opposite end of the dulcimer.
One of the early evolutions of this instrument after the Middle Ages was the adoption of metal strings, which replaced the gut or silk strings originally used. This allowed for a more powerful sound and increased the sustain of the notes. The type of wood used for construction has also changed over time. Examples can be found made of rosewood, spruce, and other woods. Depending on the material used, the instrument produces a different sound due to the varying resonant properties of different woods.
Additionally, various playing techniques have been developed, such as the “paddle hammer” or “three-finger hammer“, which allow for different timbres and more complex melodies.
With the advent of electronics, this instrument has also been adapted for use with amplifiers or effects such as reverb or delay.
In summary, the dulcimer has undergone various evolutions over time in terms of materials and playing techniques. Today, it remains popular and is used in various settings, both acoustically and amplified.
How to Play the Hammered Dulcimer
To play the hammered dulcimer, its strings are struck with mallets, which can be made of various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. Different mallet grips produce distinct sounds; the most common grip is the “three-finger” technique, where the mallet is held between the thumb, index, and middle fingers to strike the strings.
When starting to play, it’s important to position the instrument so that the strings run parallel to your body and the mallets are comfortably held in your fingers. Beginners can start with simple melodies and, with practice, progress to more complex sequences and experiment with different playing techniques.
Another technique involves using the “paddle hammer“, where the mallet is rotated 90 degrees to produce different tones.
Music and Genres
The dulcimer can be used in a variety of musical genres; here are some examples:
- Classical music: The dulcimer has been used in works inspired by classical music traditions and pieces specifically composed for the instrument. Though less common in classical music, some musicians have innovatively incorporated it into orchestras. Classical dulcimer compositions can be performed solo or with small ensembles and accompanied by instruments like piano or violin.
- Folk: The dulcimer has traditionally been used in many folk music genres, such as British, Irish, and American folk.
- Bluegrass: A staple instrument in this American folk genre, characterized by its lively and fast-paced sound.
- Rock: The dulcimer has also been used in subgenres such as psychedelic rock or progressive rock, often creating atmospheric or psychedelic sounds with effects or for playing complex melodies and chords.
- World music: This string instrument is a key feature in world music genres, including Arabic and Chinese music.
Famous Musicians
Many renowned musicians have played the dulcimer during their careers:
- Mike Seeger: An American musician who dedicated much of his career to collecting and spreading traditional folk music of the United States. Seeger was an expert dulcimer player and used it in various recordings and live performances.
- Jean Ritchie: A U.S. musician who frequently used the dulcimer in her career. Ritchie was also a songwriter who produced numerous folk pieces, helping to popularize traditional American music internationally.
- Ralph Stanley: A notable American artist who played the dulcimer during his career. Stanley was a leading figure in bluegrass and mountain music, collaborating with many famous artists over the years.
- Doc Watson: One of the most famous names in bluegrass and folk from the 1950s onwards, Watson influenced many subsequent musicians with his unique dulcimer-playing style, both as a soloist and in larger ensembles.
For those interested in exploring compositions featuring this beautiful instrument, we recommend a few YouTube links where various musicians perform pieces from diverse genres:
2)Solo by Jeno Farkas with the Szalai Hungarian Gypsy Band
3)Pachelbel Canon in D Fantasia
4)Relaxed hammered dulcimer music