Top 5 Priorities for Choosing a Hammered Dulcimer

Are you looking for the best hammered dulcimer for your needs? This guide will help with your decision. The main topics include sound quality, quality construction, range, features, and portability. I hope this video answers many of your questions and inspires more. Please comment! JoshuaMessick.com
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|| Chapters
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:14 Expectations
00:00:39 Hammy the Dulcimer
00:00:55 Order of Importance
00:01:06 #1 - Sound Quality
00:01:23 1a - Guidelines for Good Sound
00:02:14 1b - Volume
00:02:44 1c - Projection
00:03:13 1d - Balance
00:04:13 1e - Quick Tip for Choosing a Good Luthier
00:04:32 #2 - Quality Construction
00:05:21 #3 - Range
00:05:51 3a - Minimum Range
00:06:19 3b - Chromatic Option
00:08:17 3c - Extended Range
00:09:16 #4 - Features
00:09:26 4a - Dampers
00:10:28 4b - Internal Pickup
00:10:49 4c - Visual Upgrades
00:11:17 #5 Portability
00:11:23 5a - Size
00:12:02 5b - Weight
00:12:40 BONUS - Used or New?
00:14:00 Master Works Representative

[@goblinslayer2876]

Until the day i can afford one i will save this video to remember. And until then i will continue to listen to your music on repeat

[@JoshuaMessick]

Aww, thanks! I appreciate the many spins. When you're ready to buy a hammered dulcimer, please reach out to me -- I'm here to help and would love the opportunity to earn your business. Thank you!

[@nailtechmom]

A wonderful video. I bought MY first dulcimer 30 years ago..and just recently replaced it with a custom made MasterWorks dulcimer. MasterWorks was wonderful to work with..treated me very well. I can't play the dulcimer I bought very well at all, and have not encountered any song I know, to need the extra octives..BUT I chose to get the additional things so I didn't regret not doing it later. And Joshua, you play so beautifully!!

[@JoshuaMessick]

Wonderful!! I'm so glad you a Master Works extended range. Yes, it is awesome not having to worry about upgraded again in the future. You have an instrument that you will always treasure and love. Thanks for commenting and listening to my music. I appreciate you!

[@DocFourFour]

This was extremely helpful. I am starting from a place of complete ignorance so your advice is appreciated.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Super awesome to hear! It is a pleasure to help. If you’d like to own a Master Works hammered dulcimer, I’d invite you to get in touch with me at JoshuaMessick.com

[@bxxj]

I've always enjoyed your unique style, technique, and perspective on the dulsemer. Your experience really shines in the advice you gave.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thank you!! It's treat to read this comment. Thanks for watching and commenting :-)

[@ABWEndon]

Dear Joshua. Thank you ever so much for making this guide. I appreciate the time and effort that must have gone into it. God bless.

[@JoshuaMessick]

And, I appreciate you, ABW! Thanks for watching and commenting :-) Yours, Joshua

[@mrice3274]

Thanks Joshua! Reaffirms my decision to get my Masterworks a few years ago. Appreciate all you do ...

[@JoshuaMessick]

Super! And I appreciate you :-)

[@dulcimerworshipmorewithdon1523]

Great video, thanks Joshua! 🙂

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@paca_bill4863]

Great video! I fully agree with your #1 pick, and that generally applies to any instrument someone wants to purchase. My second-hand dulcimer was originally made in 1970 by a minister in New Hampshire, and the materials used for construction were marginal at best. I spent time plugging (with maple) and redrilling the tuning pegs, and restringing the instrument. Also removed one or two strings from each course (4 strings originally) to reduce the overall pressure on the instrument. All that made it "playable", but I would have been worlds ahead by purchasing a new one in the first place.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thanks for staying connected, Bill! I appreciate your comments. Wow, what a bummer with your used dulcimer. Unfortunately, I've heard of this type of thing happening many, many times. Thanks for watching the video!

[@nytemoth]

Thank you for a great video ! I have just got a 12/12 Dulcimer

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Keep up the great work on the 12/12! It is amazing how much music you can play on a 12/12, even if it is a wee bit restrictive.

[@gregtucker3448]

Great video! Saving up for a MW Ultralight Chromatic Extended Range. Gotta have that low end. I went to Bennington about a month ago and visited with Russell and got to see the shop. Really enjoyed that. Looking forward to placing that order.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Wonderful! That's great! Master Works is a fun place to visit. I've been there many times and always get excited when I see the workshop. When the time is right, enjoy your new MW Ultralight Chromatic! Please tell Russell "hello" for me :-)

[@simpleysteve2536]

Yeah, harder to find a good lower end.

[@yahuchanonyakov]

I currently play guitar and ukulele, and I might be taking up the hammer dulcimer next year, thank you for this informative video....

[@JoshuaMessick]

That’s awesome to hear - when you’re ready to buy one, please get in touch with me at JoshuaMessick.com. I’d love to help you out. I hope you have an awesome 2021! Best, Joshua

[@winkfinkerstien1957]

Thank you very much. You answered a few questions I had, such as the chromatic thing as well as the size. Good to know I should really get the 16/15 to avoid being restricted on the tunes I want to play. I might get a hard case suitable for air travel when the time comes. Good video. 😎👍🏻

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thank you!! If you decide to purchase a hammered dulcimer, I’d love to help you out. Please get in touch with me at JoshuaMessick.com. Best, Joshua

[@ellencain6461]

I'm.a Musician and I have played music all my life and very gifted with other instruments also.

[@AG-up7kx]

Looking at some videos here and there and finding a lot of hammered dulcimers that sound very much like a piano. But the kind of music I grew up with and really love with these instruments is the kind that sounds very tangy and unique. The kind you hear in "medevial" style music.

[@JoshuaMessick]

The sound you appreciate is partially the instrument. A more significant factor is how the player can create a “medieval” sound with the correct approach and technique. The hammered dulcimer is played in various ways to sound very different.

[@Boingercatable]

This was very helpful, Joshua. I would love a sound clip of a "too bright" vs. "too harsh" instrument. As a newbie, I'm not sure I know how to discern the difference.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thanks, Lauren! I'm very glad it was helpful.

[@TarkMcCoy]

Great video! I've been playing an ancient (1990) Dusty Strings Apprentice (12/11) for about 7 years now, and am amazed at how much you can play with just that basic an instrument. That being said, I think I'd rather spring for a new one extended range one.

[@JoshuaMessick]

It's great to hear from you, Tark! You've been playing hammered dulcimer longer than I have ;) I got my first instrument on Christmas Day, 1998. I agree, it is rather amazing what you can do with a 12/11 instrument. If you ever decide to get a Master Works dulcimer, you're welcomed to reach out to me. I'd love the opportunity to earn your business.

[@TarkMcCoy]

@@JoshuaMessick Hehehe, I WISH I'd been playing it that long! I meant to say that I bought it used (and started to play it) 7 years ago. It has a neat little signed card inside it that says it was made in 1990. From looking at the case it has been through a few hands before me, but I have dearly enjoyed learning to play it.

[@JoshuaMessick]

@@TarkMcCoy Well, I totally misread that! *blushes* So sorry :-) 7 years is still a long time -- keep it up! Your instrument has been very loved and I'm sure it can tell many stories! A 12/11 from 1990 would have been similar to the instrument Rich Mullins played.

[@judeiscool]

This was very helpful 🙂 thanks you! Do you a specific dulcimer you would recommend to someone new to the instrument?

[@JoshuaMessick]

As a general rule, it’s hard to beat the value of the Pioneer Package: joshuamessick.com/product/master-works-new-pioneer-package/ It’s a solid sipo mahogany soundboard, which is hard to find at this price point. If I could set back the clock 27 years, this is the instrument I would choose as a beginner.

[@elizabethkrause1500]

Thanks for the video! I think it is also important to be honest about what you're going to do with the instrument. I have a 16/17/8 chromatic Songbird Warbler dulcimer (a very nice second hand find). I mostly play medieval/renaissance music at little reenactment events. It's a good chunk of weight, and I get tired hauling it around. I don't need a lot of range or chromatics for what I usually do. I ended up buying a wagon so I could haul it around easier, haha. If I were going to get a new dulcimer, it would be a lot smaller. (Does Masterworks still have that cute little soprano dulcimer?) Sometime you should do a video with your thoughts on performing outside or maybe even camping with a dulcimer. I imagine you're cringing at the thought, but it seems like there are a lot of opportunities for outdoor dulcimer stuff.

[@JoshuaMessick]

The Ultralight weights about 11 pounds. Sure does make it easy to carry around! Let me check on inventory for the soprano and get back with you. It isn't still made, but there might be a few in stock. It's a fun instrument and also sounds really good plucked. It could be a nice compliment to your psaltery. I've played a whole bunch of gigs outdoors, no cringe at all--it's a fun experience! I haven't camped with my dulcimer, but I know it is a thing!

[@hannahgalvan3308]

Thank you so much for your video!!! 🤗 I am a piano teacher by trade and also a church musician. I play a variety of other instruments, and I am building a collection of options especially for my son who is a heart patient in hopes he will desire to play any musical instrument his heart wishes since he has physical limitations and cannot play certain sports. (His cardiologist has said to steer him towards music, academics, and golf.) I am trying to decide between a mountain dulcimer and a hammered dulcimer...I absolutely love the sound of a hammered dulcimer. But as a mother of two small boys, my practice time is limited. So learning a new system such as a traditional hammered dulcimer doesn’t appeal to me. 😂 What is your opinion on the Piano Dulcimer (PD40 model) created by Dusty Strings in WA? It’s design is chromatic and keyboard-like and seems to make sense to me. Is it possible to even find piano arrangements that might “work” with this design? Thanks in advance for your input!!! 🎹

[@JoshuaMessick]

Hello, Hannah! Thank you so much for reaching out to me! My love and prayers are with your son. Dusty Strings makes a great instrument and is also a great company to do business with. The PD40 is an instrument that is easy for folks with a keyboard background to understand. I can understand why this layout is appealing to you. If you want to play basic melodies and enjoy the ethereal beauty of the instrument, I’m sure it will be a great fit. However, the PD40 is still a trapezoidal chordophone and it is not a piano. If you try to make it into a piano, I think you’ll be disappointed. While piano music could be transcribed, it is far from a seamless transition. The PD40 is still going to be primarily a left-hand lead (piano is right), the configuration is vertical (piano is horizontal), and it is mallet percussion (piano if finger). Speaking as hammered dulcimer player (not a pianist), I find the layout of the PD40 to be extremely restrictive and very limiting. Beyond a simple melody, there just isn’t much I can do with it. You will rarely (maybe never) see a professional playing one, except in very specialized situations. There is a reason why the traditional layout of the hammered dulcimer has been preserved for hundreds of years. It works extremely well. In summary, the PD40 is a niche market instrument designed to appeal to folks with a keyboard background. It accomplishes what it tries to do very well, but it is a very limiting configuration. If you’re willing to learn the layout of the hammered dulcimer, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. I know it will take some time, but I anticipate you will learn it faster than you think. If you’d like more assistance with this new journey, please reach out to me at JoshuaMessick.com. Maybe we can schedule a phone consultation. I’d love to help. I wish you much success!

[@tupperupbuttercup-melissac755]

I am glad I found this! Thanks for sharing. I have been wanting to get a hd for a long time to learn to play. I can only do $200-$300 though so am limited for sure. I am going to go look at one this morning and am already deciding that I shouldn’t buy it based off your video. I’ve only ever played piano and not proficient in it. So buying a used instrument that I have no idea what I’m looking for is nerve racking to say the least. The only thing I know about it is that it does have a stand and hammers but apparently there is no brand? My first thought is that is probably a red flag. I also have no clue what to look for to tell if the strings are good or bad. I can’t play it (since I have no idea where to start yet!) to check. I will ask about storage and the history/background of how old/where the instrument came from. Any recommendations for someone brand brand new to playing a hd, wanting to learn? It doesn’t seem like I have a community around me that I can get support from.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Bargains are difficult to find. I wish you the best. I think www.virtualdulcimerfest.com/ is a wonderful learning resource. Also, check out dulcimercrossing.com. You probably have more players in your area than you're aware of. Check out the Facebook Group "Hammered Dulcimer Players" -- you might be able to connect with someone local. Good luck!

[@fredstrutton7630]

Hi Joshua, and thank you for this; very helpful. Before I ask my question, a few things about me: I'm 72, retired, an avocational musician (guitars, electric bass, keyboards, banjo) and an experienced woodworker. Now that I have lots of time to spend in my workshop, I've decided to take on the project of building a hammered dulcimer (and learning to play it!). I expect that the time I'm spending researching this will greatly exceed the time it will take to build it. It will be either a 16/15 or a 15/14. Have not decided yet if I want to complicate it by adding a few more bass courses on the bottom, or not (I am a bass player, after all!). One of my biggest concerns is with adequate structural rigidity, and therein lies my question: Would it be wise to add a couple of braces extending from one pin block to the other, to help resist bowing of the pin blocks? The blocks will be hard maple, 3" wide x 2 1/4" high. That would of course complicate the installation of the bridge braces, but still do-able. Any other suggestions you may have are also welcome. I expect I'll make enough mistakes on this first effort that I'll want to do another one, but one more instrument I can play for God's praise and glory would be worth it. Thank you again Joshua; I love listening to you play, as well as your instructional videos.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thanks for listening! It is wonderful to have have you as a listener, and I appreciate you taking the time to reach out to me. Yes, internal bracing is something you want. Also, if you cut the pin blocks at a 45 degree angle, that will help pull some of the tension up, reducing pressure on the soundboard.

[@lasinajensen4577]

Hi! I have dreamed of buying a hammered dulcimer and learning to play for over 20 years. My great grandmother came from Poland and married my great grandfather who was from the Ukraine/Galicia-the hammered dulcimer was played at their wedding. ❤️ I felt that the opportunity would would come back to me when I was ready, and it has! I am enjoying your music so much. I went to your website and it doesn’t seem to exist. Do you have a new one? Thank you for this valuable resource. Very helpful!!

[@JoshuaMessick]

What a beautiful story - thanks for sharing this with me. My website is JoshuaMessick.com. If you’d like help purchasing a dulcimer, please get in touch with me vis the contact page and I’ll be glad to help. I appreciate you!!

[@lasinajensen4577]

Joshua Messick Yes, I found your site and I’m looking at 2 possibilities but I will reach out via your contact page soon! I’m excited and listening/watching you play is drawing me closer to this. God brought me full circle to this. ❤️ I’ll be in touch!

[@JoshuaMessick]

@@lasinajensen4577 Super awesome! Drop me a line, and I’ll be super glad to help. As a Master Works rep, I would be to delighted to help you buy a dulcimer. I’ll also help you get introduced to your instrument and help connect you to learning resources and the dulcimer community. I’m excited for you!

[@jssherrard]

I've been playing on my sweet 12/11 for a little over two years. It's been a terrific instrument to learn on; however, even as an 'advanced beginner' I find I'm ready for a significant upgrade. I'm currently working on the Toccata from Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D-minor. Trying to fit that piece onto a 12/11 is challenging! *LOL* Admittedly, there is something giggle-inducingly delightful about playing a piece of music composed for a massive organ on such a diminutive instrument. But as soon as I can afford to, I'll be upgrading to a Master Works DulciForte. Just gotta save a few more pennies!!! ;)

[@JoshuaMessick]

Keep up the great work! Bach sounds wonderful on the hammered dulcimer. I agree, the 12/11 isn't enough range for a lot of Bach's music. As soon as you're ready for a DulciForte, please get in touch! I'd appreciate the opportunity to work with you.

[@jssherrard]

@@JoshuaMessick Will do. I'm also looking forward to learning what classes you'll be offering for the upcoming QuaranTUNE 2.0!

[@JoshuaMessick]

@@jssherrard Thank you! :-) Yes, I'll be teaching 4 classes. I hope it works out to see you there!

[@ellencain6461]

What are the right ones that you hit are the right sound I see you hit but how do u get them to chime

[@lisac3089]

Very helpful information. What happens if someone already purchased a used HD for you for Christmas? Is it best to contact the maker to get information? All I know is the size and the maker and that the original hammers did not come with the instrument. Further clarification: It's a Rick Thum 16/16 and the hammers the store provided are basic Dusty Strings hammers.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Congratulations on your dulcimer! Yes, I'd reach out to the builder. I hope you're enjoying your instrument!

[@ellencain6461]

How do you know which key to tune it like a harp just one key like C or For any Half Notes

[@phartrn]

I am just learning about dulcimers and plan to purchase in the near future. Is there one that you would suggest for a beginner. I play other instruments.I would like a 16/15 I know the importance of having enough octaves. A suggestion on which one to purchase would be great .

[@JoshuaMessick]

Hey Peg! I'd love to help you out. How about we take this conversation to email? You're welcomed to reach out to me at JoshuaMessick.com -- I look forward to visiting with you! Best, Joshua

[@ellencain6461]

Do they tune to all the keys that you can play and do they have minor sounds

[@codylanham1846]

What is the general price range for a moderate to higher quality hammered dulcimer? I’m very interested in learning how to play one but I’m not sure where to even start looking for one. Also I definitely understand the quality and beauty being a factor. I play guitar and am always more likely to pick up the more beautiful sounding and looking ones.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thanks for watching! I'm glad to help you out. If you haven't already, I'd recommend watching this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGqqi5VtZph2jbM For your instrument, I'd recommend either the Pioneer or Ultralight. You can check them out here: joshuamessick.com/product-category/hammered-dulcimers/ For learning how to play, check out: www.virtualdulcimerfest.com If you have any other questions, please let me know! Just drop me a comment or get in touch at JoshuaMessick.com

[@codylanham1846]

Thank you so much!

[@daniellevergara6552]

Hi Joshua, I'm curious, what do you think of the songbird dulcimers? I am a complete beginner, and looking to buy one that's reasonably priced, as well as has a good quality build. I was looking at a 16/15 dulcimer from songbird dulcimers. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Hello, Danielle! Thanks for reaching out to me. Songbird dulcimers are well built. If it is a sound you enjoy, I'd say go for it.

[@ellencain6461]

How do you tune one

[@christinetantum1718]

How do I know what type I have acquired? Where(location) are the brand name, model number and manufacturer locations on the item.

[@JoshuaMessick]

Looks like we connected by email :) Thanks for commenting!

[@jilljones1502]

I’m buying a Hammered Dulcimer for Christmas, I’m getting a new one. I play mountain dulcimers have written 15 songs and I can transpose some of them to the Hammered dulcimer. I need to know what would be the best Hammered Dulcimer to buy,? do I need the things that muffle the strings?lol don’t know what it’s called but I know what they do. I had a songbird,but had to sell it. I don’t want a small one I would like to get the biggest one I can. Hope you can help and thank you for your time

[@JoshuaMessick]

Jill - I’d love to help. Could you get in touch with me via my website, JoshuaMessick.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

[@simonhemingwaygmail]

I've had a 3/15/16/8 semi-chromatic for years

[@JoshuaMessick]

Awesome! That is a very useful range and configuration. Keep up the great work!

[@wendiblanco3060]

Like I was told by my teacher when I went into college on oboe…. Buy the best one you can afford!

[@JoshuaMessick]

Thanks for watching and commenting! :-)

[@ramameir]

Hello Joshua...i wrote you on your page about the Pioneer model....How will you mail it to California ?

[@JoshuaMessick]

Hello! Thanks for your interest :-) The Pioneer ships via UPS direct from Master Works workshop. The shipping costs for the pioneer package is currently $69. You can order at my website, JoshuaMessick.com PS -- I did reply to your email on June 26. So sorry you didn't receive it! Maybe it went to spam? Thanks for following up with me -- I appreciate your support.

[@ramameir]

@@JoshuaMessick do you ship to israel?

[@JoshuaMessick]

Rama Meir Suissa yes! International shipping is no problem. However, it is very expensive. I would anticipate at least $300-$400 US for the Pioneer. Because of the expensive shipping, many people consider the Ultralight or betterfor International orders.

[@cw4959]

Are there any makers that you like?

[@Balthazar2242]

I'm torn because the ones I find affordable are little backpack ones, but the range is so small

[@JoshuaMessick]

Steven Bowser The backpack dulcimers have a useful application, but I don’t recommend them as a first/primary in instrument. If you’re able to save up a little longer for a 15/14, such as the Master Works Pioneer, you won’t regret it ;-)

[@jessecerasus9621]

Hi! We all have a different reason to start play a dulcimer. I have been playing drumset for 25 years and vibraphone for a few years but... I had a revelation when I was hanging with a guitarist friend of mine; I want a percussion instrumen so I can chill around a fire with friends without annoying them. For obvious reasons a drumset doesn't make it and I just can't imagine bringing my vibraphone to a party. lol Soooo I decided to buy a little dulcimer for that purpose and I am really happy with my choice. Of course this in not comparable to the magnificient instrument showed in this video, but it fills perfectly the purpose. You have to ask yourself why you want a dulcimer and how serious you want to invest time in it. If you are willing to invest yourself and become a good player, this video is very helpful. Otherwise, consider buying the backpack one.

[@hergestthered5314]

What do you think of James Jones' hammered dulcimer? I have his 4 octave bowed psaltery and I absolutely love it, so I imagine his other instruments sound great.

[@JoshuaMessick]

James Jones builds a wonderful instrument! And, he is an all-around great guy. If it is something you love and enjoy, I vote go for it. It is important to buy what you want and love. By the way, if you ever decide to give Master Works a try, please get in touch with me -- I'm here to help and would love to earn your business.

[@carolynleedonovan]

I am interested in JJ dulcimer. I heard one and fell in love. I believe it has to do with the redwood sound board. Please let me know how you like yours. Like everyone says I am outgrowing my started one

[@derekd2841]

Persian Quality Santoor Santur Dulcimer for $299.00 does that sound like a good beginner one ?

[@JoshuaMessick]

That is an instrument I’d strongly recommend avoiding. It won’t stay in tune and the construction methods are highly questionable at best. I’d recommend something more along these lines: joshuamessick.com/product/master-works-new-pioneer-package/

[@JoshuaMessick]

Also, there a massive different between a santoor (India), santur (Iran), and hammered dulcimer (USA / Western Europe). These are 3 different instruments.

[@ellencain6461]

Why s there so many strings in the keys all at once

[@user-hf7fr6vd2j]

mine is over 20kg(abt 45lb) ... :(

[@JoshuaMessick]

Wow! That is very heavy. Yes, the American hammered dulcimer is very portable.