Jessica Comeau- Scarborough Fair (Arranged for mountain dulcimer by Jessica Comeau) Celtic/English

[@Tocsin-Bang]

I love KZbin I learn something pretty much every day. Today I came across the mountain dulcimer for the first time, and I'm 69. The tune I know well from my schooldays in the UK, but I've never heard a more beautiful version. Thank you Jessica.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

You are very kind, Stephen! Thank you so much for writing. This magical song has been a favorite of mine since I was a child, and it is my joy to be able to share my interpretation of it. I would be interested in hearing a version that you knew from your childhood! :-)

[@Tocsin-Bang]

I doubt very much if I could find a version. I know we learned a number of English, Welsh and Scottish folk tunes. We also learned folk dances, both taught be a lovely older teacher called Polly Roden.

[@Tocsin-Bang]

It would probably have been based on Cecil Sharp's 100 English Folk Songs archive.org/details/onehundredenglis00shar You will doubtless know of this.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

How lovely... I know I am going to spend many happy hours with this volume, Stephen! Thank you very much. :-) I once took a class with Ralph Lee Smith, who introduced us to some beautiful songs from this book. What a joy to have access to it!

[@marcmccook9154]

Beautiful

[@spencerbodine7118]

This made me feel nostalgic for a time I never even lived in

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

I know the feeling well, Spencer! I am glad that my music brought you to that place... :-)

[@drmichaelshea]

I lived in that time. I was a teenager when Simon and Garfunkel released Scarborough Fair. A perfect song for mountain dulcimer - nostalgic and mournful. Thank you, Jessica.

[@pensive_]

NOW I like mountain dulcimer. At last real music on a mountain dulcimer.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

There are many styles that are suited to the mountain dulcimer, "pensive," but I am glad that you have found one that resonates with you! Thank you! :-)

[@pensive_]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer What I meant is, that you use real diatonism and not just "modal drones" which is usually the standard. Therefore more musical, and more challenging.

[@rsshapiro]

I have been playing the dulcimer for 17 years and this is one of the most amazing pieces I have come across. Thank you very much for posting.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

You are very kind, R Shapiro! I love to play this song, and I was happy to share it with you. :-)

[@jwrine3631]

My mother played dulcimer when I was younger. This brings back memories!

[@martysmith1626]

Possibly the finest arrangement I've ever heard. I'd give that an A+++++

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Haha! :-) I am happy that my arrangement resonates with you, Marty. Thank you for listening!

[@ChildericdeTroyes]

Magnifique. Sometimes Angels lead heart and hands of humans. God Bless her in front of eternity

[@Robin18342]

this is the best interpretation of scarborough fair played on a dulcimer i've seen yet

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

"Scarborough Fair" is an inspiration in itself to me; the beautiful melody guided me in interpreting this song... Thank you so much for your kindness and for taking the time to listen! :-)

[@troubadouroutdoors2126]

That was so gorgeous that I am speechless. I want to be able to play as well as you eventually. You are amazing!

[@lanacain]

No matter who plays this beautiful, heavenly song l always feel b the same.🌎 peaceful

[@ConstantCompanion]

That is beautiful. I learned wind instruments growing up, but listening to you makes me want to learn this. My mom grew up in Appalachia. We have little concerts in my family still. No one plays this. I think I'd like to try.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, ConstantCompanion! Please let me know if there is any way I can help you as you begin. Perhaps my “How to Play the Mountain Dulcimer” videos might be able to give you some guidance: www.jessicacomeaudulcimer.com/lessons-and-tablature.html

[@arno-luyendijk4798]

Oh my. I sincerely hope you get to play the instrument, that sound is so attached to the music from the Appalachians, I hope you grab the opportunity to renew the tradition.

[@leslijones4443]

I would too. My folks bought me a dulcimer as a teenager at a medieval fair. This was many years ago I never learned to play it except a little strumming. I’m much older now- is it still possible to learn to play it well? I didn’t realize it had this kind of possibility! So beautiful, Jessica, and you look like a fairy princess!

[@kitiamuriel]

@@leslijones4443Hello, just seen your comment and will dare to boldly answer your question to the divine Jessica: yes, you are still in time! Sir Dulcimer is a most gentle fellow and will let you enjoy playing music starting any age. Btw, Jessica is coming to Europe, namely Italy for the first time soon, and I can't wait for it to happen. Cheers, ciao and slán!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Yes, of course you can!

[@mikescofield]

Your flatpicking is terrific and the music is beautiful.

[@Skarimir]

Absolutely beautiful ❤️

[@grimgoblinjack]

My favorite song.

[@Oldtech51]

The only word that comes to mind is WOW.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Mark! :-)

[@ppierquet1]

Oh my, I've never heard such a BEAUTIFUL performance of this tune!! Lovely!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

That's so sweet of you! Thank you for listening!

[@marvinthemaniac7698]

Sounds very medieval!

[@levishslair]

keep up good work!!!!

[@JeffJinx]

Haunting - wonderful.

[@slimyturtle4665]

I love this song and you play it so beautifully

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much! :-)

[@trackie1957]

The smile at the end says it all.

[@wren_bean]

A gorgeous, perfect arrangement. Well done indeed, and well performed!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Wren! :-)

[@MLOI18775]

Really nice and sweet version, Jessica, the dulcimer sounds very melancholic and "ancient"...

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, ML... You have described well the spirit with which I sought to infuse this song. :-)

[@vicw1224]

VERY special!

[@DustyThorburn]

That's a wonderful arrangement of the tune, Jessica. It is harmonically and rhythmically interesting and you keep the momentum going throughout. Great work!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

+Dusty Turtle It's good to hear from you again, Dusty! It's been a while. Thank you for your feedback! I very much look forward to arranging more pieces this summer. :-)

[@zaphrodneybeeblebrox3134]

Haunting and absolutely beautiful!

[@travisb1757]

Excellent! Great playing, nice touch and nuance.

[@mossybiscuit4226]

I just got a dulcimer for Christmas and I had no idea what one was up until now. After listening to you play it, I’m very excited to learn how to play it!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

That’s exciting news, LexieLou! Enjoy making the mountain dulcimer your own... :-)

[@jvhende64]

Such a beautiful and haunting melody. You performed it beautifully!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

+John Henderson Thank you so much! I enjoyed arranging this piece very much... It has to smell of herbs to hear it! :-)

[@lorianncostello531]

Beautifully played 🥰

[@mrgooddeeds3115]

Your book is definitely on my list of things to get next. Thanks for all your hard work on it.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much! :-) I hope that you will enjoy exploring my arrangements...

[@antonyhadjion8376]

Absolutely beautiful! 😍

[@sergio975]

Very nice, brilliant performance!😍 I loved it so much❤️ big hug✨

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Aw! Thank you so much, Sergio! I'm glad you enjoyed it. :-)

[@carypetrousek15]

Your rendition of this piece brought tears to my eyes. Lovely!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Bless you, Cary! I’m glad you stopped by to listen... :-)

[@sandraparker5757]

Love this arrangement and you know I love the CD it's on! :). Music and blessings! :)

[@joyciejd9673]

How beautiful! I never heard a dulcimer before. This young woman is so talented!!

[@jimmywolfe1873]

It simply takes my breath away every time. Jessica this is amazing. It leaves marks on my soul.

[@jonathankennedy2635]

great version......such a gentle sound!......

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Jonathan! The mountain dulcimer can certainly have a very gentle voice... :-)

[@wesleybilly8097]

Wow!!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Wesley! This song is on my new album "Faerie Memories: Fantasy Music with an Acoustic Heart": kzbin.info/www/bejne/jovNend_ecmgftk

[@Denso59]

I can only imagine a salve of applause at the end of this play 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@roddoe7312]

Breathtaking, beautiful arrangement!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

"Scarborough Fair" is a truly beautiful song, and it inspired me to make it my own. :-) Thank you so much, Rod!

[@elifineart]

You are a true Artist! very graceful, thanks for sharing

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

You're welcome, Eli! Thank you so much! :-)

[@HBCrigs]

I'm glad this exists

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Haha! Thank you, Benjamin! :-) I’m glad you found it!

[@markwilliams8532]

she is somthing amazing. the beautiful of this songs sound is a blissful state of peace.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Mark! :-)

[@JDvorak2009]

It's like I'm in heaven when you play that beautiful music!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

It is an honor to hear that my music brings you to a blessed place when you listen to it! :-) Thank you!

[@alexhenderson8356]

You bare your soul when you play. This is great. You are a unique woman. I enjoyed this much. I love the smile you give at the end of your videos.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

I love to play "Scarborough Fair"... Thank you, Alex!

[@ppierquet1]

Beautiful!!!......

[@stevefeatherston4977]

Very nice

[@TudorFencing]

My mind is blown - I didn't know you could play like this on a dulcimer.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

The mountain dulcimer will go as far as you invite it to, Jason. :-) Thank you for listening!

[@chadhilton5119]

Wonderful arrangement and such powerful yet nuanced playing - great technique- thanks for posting!

[@AiguretDuren]

Not my first time watching / listening to this particular arrangement, and it won’t be my last. It’s wonderful.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much!

[@AiguretDuren]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer Four years later. I just wanted to hear this rendition again. 😊

[@williamdowns4817]

that is so wonderful God has given you a gift

[@ABWeaver]

Chills

[@valeriewilleto5583]

Beautiful! ❤

[@manwar999]

thank you

[@MsPebble22]

Beautiful!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

+MsPebble22 Thank you!

[@MelonysCreativeCorner]

So beautiful. Played very well.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Melony! :-)

[@kyfho47]

That dulcimer looks identical to one my father made back in the 80's. He passed away in 99 and it currently sits near the hearth at my sisters house. I would love to have someone play it as beautifully as you do. Thank you for the sweet memories.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

It's a very friendly instrument, so you might be surprised at how easily you are able to make music on it within a short time. Thank you so much for listening!

[@ruthnofchissey9210]

Amazing arrangement.

[@magicdave93]

Very beautiful as are you. Thanks for posting.

[@johnlavers3970]

beautiful

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you! :-)

[@dearreader9739]

I just purchased a dulcimer today, with absolutely no idea how to tune and/or use it. This video has given me something to aspire to!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Trollaholic! You might find my videos on “How to Play the Mountain Dulcimer” helpful: www.jessicacomeaudulcimer.com/lessons-and-tablature.html

[@russ7414]

You should post a tutorial. That was beautiful.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Russ! I do teach a version of this song from time to time in my online workshops and at festivals, Russ! Perhaps you can stop in sometime when it’s in my course description! :-)

[@russ7414]

​@JessicaComeauDulcimer I'd like that Jessica. I came back to listen again. So sorry I didn't get your response earlier.

[@wulfgarmartinson5896]

this is truly beautiful

[@congerscott6064]

Very beautiful and well played, i can't wait to get one and start learning 👍🇺🇸.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you for you kind words, Conger! Perhaps my “How to Play the Mountain Dulcimer” videos might be helpful as you begin with the mountain dulcimer...

[@this_foooo]

This gave me chills and a new love for an instrument to learn. I searched dulcimer and you are the first I ever watch for such instrument. Thank you!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

That’s wonderful to hear! I have plenty of materials and resources at my website if you’d like to learn more: www.JessicaComeauDulcimer.com

[@rene32dk]

Omg! I love it.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much! :-)

[@pjuiliano]

How beautiful well done!

[@josephholley4017]

I cant get over this

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

In a good way, I hope! Thank you for listening! :-)

[@ElvensongMusic]

Beautiful arrangement, Jessica. I don't know how I've not heard this before today 🥰

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thanks for stopping by, Dean! :-) I'm glad you enjoyed it... The beautiful mystery of the melody simply begged for more mysterious improvisations and interludes... :-)

[@ElvensongMusic]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer well you certainly nailed it on this arrangement. Thanks so much for posting 🥰

[@lordoftheborg]

Thank you so much for this! I love this song, heard it in many versions but this is by far my favourite

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

I appreciate that, lordoftheborg! Thank you for listening... :-)

[@theunclejezusshow8260]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer Very beautifully played.

[@michaels728]

Thank you well done. I grew up watching my dad play one when I was younger and now he's gone. This brings back a lot of memories

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Michael. :-) The mountain dulcimer is certainly a special instrument, and I am glad that this song evokes your memories and connection with it and with your dad!

[@Dovid2000]

Soothing.

[@ghostboatsofsouthernmichig5978]

Most excellent

[@daviddkilpatrick]

That looks just like a McSpadden I bought in Sedona a long time ago. I also play fretted not noter but fingerstyle not plectrum, and have not seen the capo before - useful! I also only play about once a year 😞

[@MrMarkar1959]

Thanksgiving Day 2022👍🏼 Very Nice🌹Thanks and Hope All is Well🙏🏼

[@TravelingCitrianSnail]

Nice❤

[@foodproducersforum]

Gorgeous version. Thank you.

[@karenzilverberg4699]

👍🏼 Excellent! 👍🏼

[@WADERTYUIOP123]

Aragorn: "You have my like" Legolas: "... And my subscription" Gimli: "... And my Notification Bell" Wonderfully played!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Haha! Thank you so much! :-)

[@camjammin]

Beautifully played Jessica.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Chris! One of my favorites... :-)

[@curtism7409]

Beautiful arrangement!! Love the whole song, but that third verse was exceptional!! Keep those videos coming!!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

I've have lots of musical projects big and small underway... You never know, Curtis! Thank you so much, though! I have also included it on my new album "Faerie Memories": kzbin.info/www/bejne/jovNend_ecmgftk

[@wittvonwitt4403]

Beautiful. Simply beautiful. I don't play that instrument but have always been a fan.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you for listening, T.E. You might be surprised by how friendly the mountain dulcimer is! :-)

[@wittvonwitt4403]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer thanks! I play guitar and mandolin and a few others. In may have to picknone up

[@michaelcraig9449]

This is so great!

[@kitiamuriel]

Wonderful sound and the finest arrangement, as usual. Thank you!

[@jasonryan8415]

Never thought I'd say it.... "I give up the mountain dulcimer!" 😆

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Whatever you do, don't do that! Keep the music going... However, I sense that there's a compliment in there somewhere, so if so, I thank you for that! :-)

[@jasonryan8415]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer definitely a compliment! Beautiful arrangement ❤️

[@余語健]

amazing

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you! :-)

[@Tull1996]

Very nice.....among your others, you also did a version of Saltarello which has been a favorite of mine since I first heard it done by Dead Can Dance....you're quite good....your arrangements are always spot on.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Ozzpocket! I have always loved "Saltarello," ever since I first heard it as a child; it has always engrossed me and held me spellbound! :-)

[@Wuei108]

wonderful!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Maha! :-)

[@DerekPicard]

Awesome 😎👍🏼

[@zombieboy5665]

Awesome

[@marcpol7754]

Beautiful. Extremely impressive. Thank you.

[@lanacain]

I like Morning is broken played on this musical instrument. Have no idea what it is. Yes! Home again

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

It’s a mountain dulcimer, Lana! :-)

[@Aquaman1054]

Jessica ... Such a sweet rendition of Scarborough Fair. Very pretty.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Aquaman1054! :-) "Scarborough Fair" was a song that seemed to invite interpretation... I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@TheComfortInStatic_Official]

Just got a dulcimer for Christmas. After being a guitar player for 20 years, I'm thinking "It's a stringed instrument. How hard could it be to learn to play?" Boy, do I have some practicing to do. Haha.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

You’re in for an adventure! Enjoy the journey... :-)

[@TheWildhound]

Amazing ! Thank you.

[@shanep5121]

That was incredible.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Shane! :-)

[@shanep5121]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer You are very welcome. I've spent some time in Gulf Breeze; that area is beautiful, but I didn't hear a lot of mountain music there. What influenced you to play the mountain dulcimer?

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

I began coming to a local dulcimer group following a recommendation from one of my favorite local Celtic bands... I thought that I would find a room full of hammered dulcimer players when I came, but instead, I heard a room full of people playing the approachable little zither my grandmother had been learning to play! The mountain dulcimer has been a special part of my life ever since.

[@MyFoodsRtouching]

Stumbled on to this vid. Splendid arrangement! I like how you really accentuated the holdovers in between the phrasings.

[@lauricole6258]

Beautiful- Thank you for your music

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Lauri! You are most welcome. :-)