Personal Journal

The Dulcimer Project

January 27^th, 2014

I had received my dulcimer on this day and immediately opened the new instrument. My initial reaction was one of mystification. What a simplistically extravagant instrument, the lines are something to appreciate. It is odd that this instrument is somehow labeled as a “common people’s “instrument, because of its elegant stature. However, this was one of the reasons I felt a pulling attraction.

This and the fact that I predominately listen to blues, folk, Cajun, and old R&B. which has no relation to what they consider music these days.  I am speaking of old Motown.

I must have spent a good hour just holding the instrument and studying its design and weight. Unfortunately, the night was getting late and it was time to place her away (Name still unknown).

January 29^th, 2014

It has been two days since I had first received the dulcimer. I have stared at it for some time and have even strummed my first note. I have to say, my initial reaction to the sound reminded me of a ukulele. This was not what I had expected, and was a little freaked out. However, after researching and learning how to hold the instrument correctly; this concern was soon lost.

I have found out that I may need a noter. Which is a tool used to slide up or down the neck of the dulcimer to create a certain sound. Therefore, I have placed and order. Along with this purchase I have decided to buy a bag (case) for the instrument as well. It has been advised by my teacher to keep it confined as to the dry climate in the apartment.

January 30^th, 2014.

I have taken my first lesson in the dulcimer, learning to tune my instrument. This was not as difficult as I had, had a tuner already; which came with a guitar I had taken in trade for some work I had done. The back story for that can happen later.

In addition, I have attempted to learn my first scale.  As seen here by the imprints. Generally they are a hint of black.

From February 1-6^th, 2014.

 I have gone through steps 1 & 2 of the “First lessons in Dulcimer” by: Joyce Ochs.

Working my way through the melody and scales, I have progressed into using two and three fingers. In addition, I have moved from strumming to plucking.  I have tried numerous times to upload 3 videos from my phone. However, it has not worked out so well. I have then migrated to a portable video camera called a flip, and that too is an issue. I will continue to seek alternate avenues concerning technology. It would help if I owned a computer.

I can say this. Thus far I have noticed that after playing, my attention to music has increased and my appreciation for chord structures is abounding. As I am listening, I find myself visualizing the chords that they are playing. I am more interested in the slide piece, which fascinates me to no end.

In addition, I have picked up several books from the library, e.g., “New Dimensions in Music, Looking at Music” a teacher’s guide, which is assisting me in reading music from a fundamental basis. Furthermore, I have found a book on how to play and make a dulcimer, which should be fascinating.