1. That's a good idea, BanjoRay. I hope Virginia Tam can make it.

2. In the first post, Tam wrote 'What I'd like to know is if anyone else has picked this instrument up in their later years and how easy or difficult is was for them to learn.'

Well, Tam, I did just that. Started playing at age 55. For many years, I played in DAA. I don't think there's any easier way to play WITH HARMONY than by playing a mountain dulc. in DAA.

Later I added DAG to my repertoire. I use stickers (as sold to little kids) to mark the notes to combine for harmony in DAG.

I have had piano and know which notes make up which chords. That made it easier, but you can get that knowledge without having music lessons.

3. But - I believe that any way of playing involves the wrists. Hold your hands up in front of you so that you are looking at your palms. Now flicker your fingers as if typing. See the amount of movement in your wrists and forearm?

(I use typing-type movements a lot with the dulcimer. I don't just play chords.)

Now close your hand as if holding a noter (or pencil). See the movement in the wrist area? See the wrist straighten out? Observe the tension on the inside of your forearm. Only you and your doctor can judge whether this is good or bad for you.

4. Some dulcimers will be easier to play than others. Try them out. Make sure the action isn't too hard and that the strings are not too far above the fretboard. You should be able to slide a nickel between the strings and the fretboard - and no more.

I hope it works for you - the dulcimer is a wonderful instrument.