History Of the Dulcimer

"America's Oldest Folk Instrument"

The Mountain dulcimer, also known as the Appalachian dulcimer, lap dulcimer, fretted dulcimer is basically a fretted zither which was derived from the German shieltholt.

It was built and developed by unknown builders in scattered pockets of and around the Appalachian Mountains. It was used for musical entertainment and for playing hymns at devotion time. Playing styles and shapes varied from area to area.

In the early 20th century, with the introduction of manufactured guitars and banjos into the region, the dulcimer almost went into extinction. A resurgence of sorts took place in the early 1950s with the urban/folk revival.

Today, it has become a very vibrant community of players and builders with established clubs and festivals. The dulcimer's popularity is based on its nostalgic charm, sweet sound and being very user-friendly, introducing many people to the world of music.

Michael is available for...

- Concerts - Festivals - Special Events - Churches - Workshops -

If you are involved with organizing a music festival or special event, or in a dulcimer club or local church and would like to look into the possibility of Michael performing and/or teaching in your area, please email him directly at Michael@MichaelShull.com.