I almost never use a pick...I like the 'softer' effect of my index finger. (yes, it does get a bit tender when you first start)...I'm afraid I don't use a lot of 'classic' approaches, but then I am usually the only one I need to please. I do play chords in Ionian tuning a lot. I have a dulcimer with walnut friction pegs, and currently one is broken, so I haven't played in awhile..(sometimes technology is MUCH easier...the guitar type tuners are a LOT easier to deal with)