Tag: dulcimer musical instrument

Gifts

Dulcimer Gifts: Shirts, Mugs, Totes, Music, Accessories

by musician on September 12, 2015

Dulcimer Gifts

It’s so easy to find dulcimer gifts, because there is so much beautiful music to choose from. Everything from folk songs, to classics, to hymns, to Christmas music. There is a dulcimer sound for all tastes. If you’re shopping for someone who plays this beautiful string instrument, we’re always on the lookout for the best dulcimer accessories and tools. Choose from music, instructional books for players, posters, coffee mugs, colorful buttons, trucker hats, cotton canvas tote bags, refrigerator magnets, cooking aprons, and more unique dulcimer gifts.

Ethan Coen (Filmmaker)
The mountain music … is compelling music in its own right, harking back to a time when music was a part of everyday life and not something performed by celebrities.

Mill Run Dulcimer Band

Sing One Song For Me
Listen with Unlimited Streaming

Sing One Song for Me by Mill Run Dulcimer Band

Dulcimer Music

One of the best and most affordable dulcimer gifts is music.

The Best of Old-Time Hymns by Dulcimer Dan and The Blue Skies Band More of the Best of Old-Time Hymns by Dulcimer Dan and The Blue Skies Band

Nashville Dulcimers 28 Dulcimer Classics Audio CD Pine Street Musicians Hammered Dulcimer Christmas Audio CD

The Appalachian Dulcimer Book

by Michael Murphy

This top-rated book is an excellent guide for anyone who wants to learn Appalachian dulcimer music. In addition to music, the book includes a wealth of information about the instrument and some wonderful vintage photographs.

The Appalachian Dulcimer Book

Dulcimer Music Books

Share the beauty of mountain dulcimer music with the aid of these popular instructional guides.

Dulcimer Songbook: 70 Popular Songs for Dulcimer in D-A-D Tuning A Dulcimer Hymn Collection: Traditional Hymns and Spirituals for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-D Tuning

A Dulcimer Christmas – Beautiful Arrangements on 23 Holiday Favorites – A Mel Bay Publication A Dulcimer for Christmas: Traditional Christmas Tunes For Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A Tuning

Dulcimer Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans, including unique gifts for your favorite dulcimer player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our Dulcimer Shirts and Gifts collection.

Dulcimer Elegant Scrolled Heart

This bold design features an ornate, scrolled heart with the word “Music” elegantly nestled at its center, symbolizing the passion and soul of dulcimer melodies. Flanking the base of the heart are two more scrolls, creating an eye-catching composition. Below, the word “Dulcimer” stands out in bold, confident lettering, making a proud statement. With its robust graphic style, this design is perfect for anyone who wants to wear their love for the dulcimer with pride and flair. Visit the Dulcimer Shirts and Gifts collection:

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans T-Shirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans T-Shirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Premium Tri-Blend T-Shirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Premium Tri-Blend T-Shirt

Womens Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans V-Neck T-Shirt Womens Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans V-Neck T-Shirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Tank Top Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Tank Top

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Raglan Baseball Tee Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Raglan Baseball Tee

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Long Sleeve T-Shirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Sweatshirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Sweatshirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Pullover Hoodie Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Pullover Hoodie

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Khaki Color Tote Bag Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Khaki Color Throw Pillow

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Denim Color Tote Bag Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Fans Denim Color Throw Pillow

Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Lovers Music Theme T-Shirt Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Lovers Music Theme Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Lovers Music Theme Long Sleeve T-Shirt Elegant Scrolled Heart for Dulcimer Lovers Music Theme T-Shirt

Dulcimer Shirts

Everyone loves to receive shirts, and these designs were created specifically for dulcimers. There are dozens of styles to choose among for anyone from babies to adults. Click on any design to see loads of color and size options.

Folk Art Mountain Dulcimer T-Shirt Mountain Dulcimer Stained Glass T-Shirt

Cats and Dogs Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players

Here are some designs for animal lovers who are easily distracted by the sound of dulcimer players. Choose from playful cats and dogs in a variety of styles, colors, and sizes for the whole family.

Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes T-Shirt Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes T-Shirt

Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Long Sleeve T-Shirt Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Cat Easily Distracted By Dulcimer Players Music Notes T-Shirt Dog Easily Distracted By Dulcimer Players Music Notes T-Shirt

The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer

Who are the coolest people on earth? Dulcimer players, of course! Spread the word about this cool string instrument. Makes a great gift for any music student, music teacher, or dulcimerist.

The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument T-Shirt The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument Long Sleeve T-Shirt

The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument Raglan Baseball Tee The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument Pullover Hoodie

The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument T-Shirt The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument Raglan T-Shirt

Double Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer

This dulcimer design features a symmetrical heart formed by two mirrored bass clefs that face each other, their elegant scrolls meeting perfectly at the center to create a unified heart shape.

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Musician T-Shirt Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Musician T-Shirt

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Musician Pullover Hoodie Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Musician Pullover Hoodie

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Music Notes T-Shirt Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Music Notes T-Shirt

First Coffee, Then Dulcimer

Caffeine loving dulcimer players and fans will love to wear these shirts. Whimsical designs feature a large mug of hot coffee.

First Coffee Then Dulcimer Music Lover Musician Dulcimerist T-Shirt First Coffee Then Dulcimer Music Lover Musician Dulcimerist Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Dulcimer Trucker Hats

Dulcimer trucker hats are available in eleven color choices. Hats feature a 100% polyester foam front and a 100% nylon mesh back to keep you cool. Trucker hats are adjustable from 17 to 24 inches.

Love Dulcimer Pink Purple Butterfly Heart Trucker Music Notes Trucker Hat Dulcimer Mixtape Retro Red Vintage Cassette Tape Trucker Hat

Dulcimer Tote Bags

Versatile and durable cotton canvas tote bags are another practical gift idea for musicians. These designs are available in many style and color choices to please any dulcimer player or enthusiast.

Mountain Dulcimer Player Musical Instrument Musician Tote Bag The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer String Instrument Tote Bag

Cat Easily Distracted By Dulcimer Players Music Notes Tote Bag Dog Easily Distracted By Dulcimer Players Music Notes Tote Bag

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Musician Tote Bag Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Musician Tote Bag

First Coffee Then Dulcimer Music Lover Musician Dulcimerist Tote Bag Dulcimer Musician Plucked Instrument Hammered Dulcimer Tote Bag

Dulcimer Elegant Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Tote Bag Dulcimer Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Tote Bag

Cartoon Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Tote Bag Cartoon Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Tote Bag

The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer Tote Bag The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer Nebula Tote Bag

I Love Dulcimer Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Tote Bag Double Bass Clef Heart Sheet Music Dulcimer Tote Bag

Dulcimer Coffee Mugs

Mugs are one of our favorite affordable dulcimer gifts. Everyone can use a few mugs. Click on any mug to see how the design looks from different angles. Experiment with sizes, styles, and colors to create a personal gift.

Dulcimer Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Two-Tone Coffee Mug Copper Double Bass Clef Heart Dulcimer Two-Tone Coffee Mug

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Coffee Mug Running Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Coffee Mug

I Love Dulcimer Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Two-Tone Coffee Mug The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer Two-Tone Coffee Mug

First Coffee Then Dulcimer Music Lover Two-Tone Coffee Mug Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Two-Tone Coffee Mug

Bass Clef Heart Vintage Sheet Music Dulcimer Coffee Mug Bass Clef Heart Purple Nebula Love Dulcimer Coffee Mug

Dulcimer Magnets

Here’s one of our top inexpensive gift ideas for dulcimer players. Refrigerator magnets always come in handy. Standard size square magnets measure 2 by 2 inches, and round magnets are typically available in three sizes. Designs are printed on 100% recycled paper. Scratch and UV-resistant Mylar keeps magnets looking great for many years to come.

Dulcimer Elegant Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Square Magnet Dulcimer Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Square Magnet

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Square Magnet Running Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Square Magnet

I Love Dulcimer Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Square Magnet Double Bass Clef Heart Sheet Music Dulcimer Square Magnet

Dulcimer Posters

These versatile and affordable posters offer sharp, clean images with stunning and vibrant colors. These designs are available in several sizes and paper types. Need a frame? We can handle that too. Click on any image to see the options.

My Old Kentucky Home I Love Dulcimers Poster Pilot Mountain North Carolina Two Dulcimers Poster

Dulcimer Chef Aprons

Classic cotton-poly twill blend aprons are another of our top picks for practical dulcimer gifts. Choose from several style and color options. Spacious front pockets hold plenty of utensils and cooking tools. Aprons are machine washable and proudly made in the U.S.A.

Dulcimer Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Adult Chef Apron The Coolest People on Earth Play Dulcimer Adult Chef Apron

Double Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Adult Chef Apron Double Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Dulcimer Adult Chef Apron

Dulcimer Buttons

Here’s another idea for inexpensive dulcimer gifts that can be worn. Standard-sized square buttons measure 2 inches by 2 inches. Round buttons are available in several sizes. Designs are printed on 100% recycled paper and covered with scratch and UV-resistant Mylar for years of use and enjoyment. On many styles you can easily change the background color for complete customization.

Dulcimer Elegant Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Square Button Dulcimer Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Square Button

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Square Button Running Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Square Button

I Love Dulcimer Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Square Button Double Bass Clef Heart Sheet Music Dulcimer Square Button

Dulcimer Playing Cards

One of the most popular dulcimer gifts is a set of playing cards. Each comes packaged in a cardboard box for easy gifting. Poker size cards measure 2.5 by 3.5 inches, with 52 playing cards and 2 jokers per deck. Click on any design to see the available options. Standard cards are printed on smooth card stock, and premium quality Bicycle playing cards are printed on durable semi-gloss card stock.

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Playing Cards Running Dog Easily Distracted by Dulcimer Players Music Notes Playing Cards

Mountain Dulcimer

Joni Mitchell
Unlike some of my peers, I haven’t really hit a writer’s block. When I hit a block I just paint, which is an old crop rotation trick.

Play a Joni Mitchell Song

Learn How to Play “A Case of You” on the Dulcimer

Prominent folk musician Joni Mitchell wrote “A Case of You” in 1970 and it became one of her best-known songs. The iconic singer-songwriter has devoted entire sets to the dulcimer over her long and successful performing career.

Best Dulcimer Gifts Collection

Our Dulcimer Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Dulcimer Shirts and Gifts Collection

Dulcimer Information

Learn more about this unique string instrument and find out where you can buy a dulcimer online.

Shop for Dulcimers and Accessories

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that–at zero cost to you–we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

D’Addario EJ64 Set of 4 Dulcimer Strings: 3 Plain Steel, 1 Nickel-Plated Steel – Medium String Gauge String Swing Dulcimer Hanger Wall Mount Holder CC01D-C Solid Cherry Hardwood Block – Easy to Hang Noter for the Mountain Dulcimer – Made from Solid Rosewood – Rooseback Pick Included Dulcimer Songbook: 70 Popular Songs for Dulcimer in D-A-D Tuning – By Thomas Balinger

Courtesies

Mountain Dulcimer image by StillWorksImagery

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Instruments

Dulcimer Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 12, 2015

Dulcimer Facts

The dulcimer’s roots trace back to ancient stringed instruments, including the Persian santur and European psaltery. Modern dulcimers emerged in the United States in the 19th century, primarily among Scotch-Irish immigrants. Historians speculate that early settlers lacked the proper tools needed to craft the more complex, dramatically curved violin.

Once dulcimers were mass-produced, design changes resulted in an instrument that was easier to build and play. The body was made larger, and geared tuners replaced traditional wooden pegs, making tuning easier and more reliable.

With just three or four strings and a simple diatonic fret pattern, the Appalachian dulcimer is one of the easiest string instruments to learn. It’s a wonderful introduction to the world of music.

The hammered dulcimer, an earlier form, was widely used in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. During these eras, a variety of instruments appeared across many cultures—from the Middle East to Asia.

Street Musician on Hammered Dulcimer

More Dulcimer Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a dulcimerist. This term is rarely used though. Most artists refer to themselves as dulcimer players.

Famous Dulcimer Musicians

The dulcimer saw a resurgence during the 1960s folk music revival, with musicians like Jean Ritchie, Joni Mitchell, and Richard Fariña incorporating it into their work. Today, festivals like the Kentucky Music Week continue to celebrate and teach dulcimer music with workshops and performances.

Other famous musicians have been known to play this simple instrument. Brian Jones of The Rolling Stones featured an Appalachian dulcimer on the songs “Lady Jane” and “I Am Waiting.” Pop star Cyndi Lauper played one on her songs “A Night to Remember” and “Sisters of Avalon.”

Dulcimer Nicknames

Over the years, the Appalachian dulcimer has acquired a number of nicknames including Mountain Dulcimer, Lap Dulcimer, Hog Fiddle, and Whamadiddle or Whimmydiddle. The hammered dulcimer’s nicknames include Whammer Jammer, Cimbalom, Stringed Piano, and Hackbrett (German for chopping board.) These nicknames vary by region, tradition, and the instrument’s role in local music.

Appalachian Dulcimer
Developed in the early 1800s in rural Appalachia, this fretted string instrument was crafted with simple tools and local woods like walnut or cherry. Its hourglass or teardrop shape was designed for portability and ease of play, often used to accompany folk songs and ballads. Appalachian dulcimers typically have 3–5 strings, with one or two melody strings and the rest as drones, creating a haunting, harmonious sound.

Play the Mountain Dulcimer

by Michael Alan Wood

A Dulcimer Hymn Collection: Traditional Hymns and Spirituals for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A Tuning Dulcimer on the Backroads: Old Time and Celtic Tunes for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A Tuning

Virtuoso Dulcimer Player Stephen Seifert

Nashville-based musician Stephen Seifert plays “Whiskey Before Breakfast” on an Appalacian dulcimer. If you’d like to learn to play, Stephen has a series of videos that you can find on his website. He’s widely recognized as one of the most versatile and talented contemporary players, and is a frequent performer at American folk music festivals. Stephen has also performed with a number of classical symphonies throughout the United States.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite dulcimer player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Dulcimer collection.

Find a Dulcimer Online

Applecreek Dulcimer Deluxe Pack

Product details:

Handcrafted in Europe using the finest material
Applecreek Dulcimer is the best student model you will find
Durable nylon dulcimer case with accessory pocket, handle and shoulder strap to carry like suitcase or backpack
Dulcimer Instruction Book with 19 all-time favorite songs
One of the most popular and easiest musical instruments to play

Applecreek Dulcimer, Known as the Appalachian or Mountain Dulcimer Deluxe Pack Includes Durable Nylon Dulcimer Case with Strap, Dulcimer Music Book

Hammered Dulcimer

Hammered Dulcimer
Unlike the Appalachian dulcimer, the hammered dulcimer is played by striking strings with small hammers, producing a bright, resonant sound. The instrument can have 100 or more strings, arranged in courses to allow for complex melodies and harmonies. It was a popular instrument, played in royal courts and folk settings alike.

Best Dulcimer Gifts Collection

Our Dulcimer Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Dulcimer Shirts and Gifts Collection

Unique Dulcimer Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite dulcimer player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Shop for Dulcimers and Accessories

Courtesies

Hammered Dulcimer image by maxmann

Hammered Dulcimer image by traveLink

Column: Historic, Lovely Tones of the Hammered Dulcimer