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!

[@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.

[@jwrine3631]

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

[@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. :-)

[@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! :-)

[@marcmccook9154]

Beautiful

[@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

[@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!

[@troubadouroutdoors2126]

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

[@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. :-)

[@JeffJinx]

Haunting - wonderful.

[@lanacain]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@mikescofield]

Your flatpicking is terrific and the music is beautiful.

[@wren_bean]

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

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Wren! :-)

[@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.

[@zaphrodneybeeblebrox3134]

Haunting and absolutely beautiful!

[@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...

[@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... :-)

[@sandraparker5757]

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

[@travisb1757]

Excellent! Great playing, nice touch and nuance.

[@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. :-)

[@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! :-)

[@levishslair]

keep up good work!!!!

[@elifineart]

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

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

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

[@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. :-)

[@jonathankennedy2635]

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

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

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

[@MelonysCreativeCorner]

So beautiful. Played very well.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Melony! :-)

[@Skarimir]

Absolutely beautiful ❤️

[@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!

[@joyciejd9673]

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

[@markwilliams8532]

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

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Mark! :-)

[@MsPebble22]

Beautiful!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

+MsPebble22 Thank you!

[@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!

[@vicw1224]

VERY special!

[@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

[@carypetrousek15]

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

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

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

[@lorianncostello531]

Beautifully played 🥰

[@grimgoblinjack]

My favorite song.

[@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!

[@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. 😊

[@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!

[@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... :-)

[@theunclejesusshow8260]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer Very beautifully played.

[@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 🥰

[@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...

[@antonyhadjion8376]

Absolutely beautiful! 😍

[@chadhilton5119]

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

[@rene32dk]

Omg! I love it.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much! :-)

[@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

[@Oldtech51]

The only word that comes to mind is WOW.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Mark! :-)

[@johnlavers3970]

beautiful

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you! :-)

[@Denso59]

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

[@ppierquet1]

Beautiful!!!......

[@michaeljking]

Beautiful interpretation. Many thanks.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

+Michael J King Thank you so much, Michael! I always appreciate your thoughtful comments.

[@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! :-)

[@wulfgarmartinson5896]

this is truly beautiful

[@LoneRevD]

Thank you for sharing, lovely voicing and chording thats in the favorites list for sure!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Reverend! Thanks for stopping by. :-)

[@williamdowns4817]

that is so wonderful God has given you a gift

[@stevefeatherston4977]

Very nice

[@lauricole6258]

Beautiful- Thank you for your music

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

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

[@magicdave93]

Very beautiful as are you. Thanks for posting.

[@Wuei108]

wonderful!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Maha! :-)

[@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

[@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

[@NrighthereD]

This sounds pretty. I plan on buying a dulcimer soon, and this is totally a sound I will be heading in my head and I flow the musical energy down the line :)

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much! Please let me know if you have any questions as you’re getting started with playing the mountain dulcimer. :-)

[@simplefolk]

I always enjoy your music

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

So good to hear from you! Thank you. :-) I hope your musical adventures are thriving...

[@rogerhoyos9985]

amazing !!!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Roger!

[@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! :-)

[@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 😞

[@shaunw9270]

Beautiful ! I'm in England and only seen a Dulcimer because John Boy played one in an early episode of The Waltons , which I watched again on dvd a few years ago .

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much, Shaun! I did not realize mountain dulcimers made an appearance on “The Waltons”! Perhaps some of the info at my website if you’re just starting out with the mountain dulcimer: www.jessicacomeaudulcimer.com/

[@shaunw9270]

@@JessicaComeauDulcimer I haven't bought one yet but thank you for the link . I'm considering buying a model made by Ozark , £150 here in the UK and it appears to be made in Romania, spruce top , mahogany back & sides with maple fingerboard. I have played guitar for many years and occasionally attempt 5-string banjo (a lovely Goodtime open back) .

[@westseraph]

A very fine arrangement with a delicate yet substantive touch.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

I appreciate that, westseraph! I love this song, and I am happy that you enjoyed my arrangement. Thank you for listening! :-)

[@claudiosandrini8130]

grazie ,è sempre bello ascoltarti.ciao.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

+Claudio Sandrini Thank you for listening, Claudio! I am glad you enjoyed it. :-)

[@poycivainoxler2878]

Beautiful!!!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you!!

[@2003xtrail]

Beautiful.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Svein! :-)

[@kitanimboy]

That's beautiful Jessica…. Wonderful old ballad..

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Chris! :-) I do love old ballads from the British Isles...

[@kitanimboy]

We have managed to produce a number haven't we :) .. I find the ones from England (Mercier etc) tend to be romantic in nature. The Irish socially realistic, and the Scottish ones to be social documents about the hardship of existence… Pretty much covers all bases there really :)

[@HBCrigs]

I'm glad this exists

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

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

[@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.

[@camjammin]

Beautifully played Jessica.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

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

[@MarcCarriere-y3r]

Just made me.almost cry...thank you

[@marcpol7754]

Beautiful. Extremely impressive. Thank you.

[@stacyclark5910]

Beautiful! Thank you for sharing!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

...and thank YOU for listening, Stacy! I appreciate it. :-)

[@stacyclark5910]

Still AH-MAZING! Thx so much!! … I played guitar for 20 years, but I had a stroke this past January 2021. I am trying to relearn the guitar & also the mountain dulcimer. One strum took so long because I couldn’t lift my right hand high enough…Tuning either takes so long because I don’t have all of the dexterity in my right hand back yet. What dulcimer tuning do you recommend for learning? Beginning videos? THANKS! You play beautifully! I used to play Scarborough Faire finger style on the acoustic guitar….. I will always LOVE to listen to your version! So beautiful & other worldly!

[@svart_kors]

Well done!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Scarlet Crusader! :-)

[@jimmywolfe1873]

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

[@mumbleypegjones6191]

Amazing!

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Mumbleypeg! :-)

[@kitiamuriel]

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

[@余語健]

amazing

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you! :-)

[@michaelcraig9449]

This is so great!

[@Melvorgazh]

Excellent playing! 👍🏻😼 I play the guitar only but love the sound of the mountain dulcimer.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you very much!

[@williampringle2307]

Absolutely beautiful, thank you ❤

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you so much!

[@RobertoFasciano]

Beautiful music an instrument. Well donne!!

[@graducau]

Excelente interpretación, saludos desde Bariloche, Patagonia Argentina

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Muchas gracias, Graciela! :-) Thank you for listening!

[@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!

[@lauraswan8647]

So soothing 😊

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

You are very kind, Laura! Bless you, and Merry Christmas to you! :-)

[@lauraswan8647]

Jessica Comeau I just saw this just now. Aww thank you so much . Blessing to you too . Happy New Year..I loved the song..my favorite

[@sandytaylor8482]

Just exquisite, Jessica.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

Thank you, Sandy! :-)

[@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... :-)

[@ejlilley]

Nicely done Jessica. I like the way you have mingled the melody, harmony and bass runs. Truly pleasant to listening.

[@JessicaComeauDulcimer]

It's truly fun to play as well, EJ! I enjoyed seeing what accompaniment emerged for the melody, which I have long loved... Thank you so much! :-)