Mountain Dulcimer

[Willard Foster]

Here is a mountain dulcimer I made for my wife. We were in a dulcimer shop and I (being some what of a smartass) said, "I can make that".

I knew nothing about music or instuments. I now know a little more about each. Years ago, I saw an article in Fine Woodworking about making a guitar. That was a little ambitious, so the dulcimer was a good place to start.

It's easy to play, but I wouldn't say I play well. Maybe I will learn how to play Smoke OnThe Water ;-)

The fret board is walnut and the rest cherry. I puchased all "non-wood" components at a local business that caters to Bluegrass musicians. (And future musicians)

Bill

[Derek Gilmer]

I grew up listening to bluegrass so this kind of thing is great!

Be sure and record Smoke on the Water when you get there, having a hard time picturing it on a dulcimer

[John Thompson]

I believe I saw this elsewhere and commented Bill. Again loved the comment you made about "dualing banjo's".. ha.. ha... ha..ha..ha..

[Paul Douglass]

Nice one, I've made several Cigar Box Guitars and a strumstick. Haven't done a dulcimer yet but I well eventually. I can't play anything but I love to build.

Have you checked out Cigar Box Nation? Lots of info there.

[Willard Foster]

Thanks for the info about Cigar Box Nation. Might have to make me a banjo!

Bill

[John Keeton]

Nice work on the dulcimer, Bill. They are kind of neat to play with, though building one might be even more fun.

I have one of curly maple made by Homer Ledford, now deceased. Homer gained some fame regionally here in KY for instrument making. I was always intrigued by Homer's methods, and often thought making a dulcimer would be a neat project.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

Bill,

Nice dulcimer! I have one I built in 1973 IIRC...it's in Idaho and I'm currently in Houston or I'd look at the tag I glued inside it.

[Dennis Lopeman]

Here is a mountain dulcimer I made for my wife. We were in a dulcimer shop and I (being some what of a smartass) said, "I can make that".
....

Bill

Saying just THAT has gotten me in more trouble than I can count. My project list is VERY long!!!

Nice job!

[Stephen Edwards]

Nice work on the dulcimer, Bill. They are kind of neat to play with, though building one might be even more fun.

I have one of curly maple made by Homer Ledford, now deceased. Homer gained some fame regionally here in KY for instrument making. I was always intrigued by Homer's methods, and often thought making a dulcimer would be a neat project.

Indeed, Homer Ledford was a well known old time instrument maker. His reputation stretched beyond Kentucky, too!

Nice job on your dulcimer Willard. Keep 'em coming!