String

Mountain Dulcimer

The mountain dulcimer is an American string instrument with three or four strings and a fretted fingerboard. It's central to Appalachian folk music and is often used to provide the main melodic line in ensembles. The instrument produces a sweet, mellow sound that's essential to American musical traditions.

Explore More Instruments

Instrument Image

Overview

The mountain dulcimer is an American string instrument with three or four strings and a fretted fingerboard. It's central to Appalachian folk music and is often used to provide the main melodic line in ensembles. The instrument produces a sweet, mellow sound that's essential to American musical traditions.

Cultural Context

The mountain dulcimer is central to Appalachian cultural identity and represents the rich folk traditions of the American mountains.

Famous Players

Jean Ritchie
Richard Fariña
Joni Mitchell
David Schnaufer

Fun Fact

The mountain dulcimer is often called the 'Appalachian dulcimer' and is one of the most important instruments in Appalachian folk music, often providing the main melodic line in ensembles.

Quick Facts

Origin

United States

Era

The mountain dulcimer is central to Appalachian cultural identity and represents the rich folk traditions of the American mountains.

Difficulty

Beginner

Ready to Learn More?

Explore more instruments, discover artists, or dive into music theory.