I believe Night Owl is correct in his evaluation of the dulcimer as a teaching tool. I was having much trouble with timing in my banjo learning process. After just a few days of playing with the lap dulcimer I had a better grip on the process and was able to transpose what I had learned to the banjo. I now alternate both instruments abvout equally and am even getting up nerve to pick up the long neglected guitar again! One of my main problems, I'm sure, is that I have been inable to find someone in my area (other than my instructor) to practice with. I really feel if you have someone sitting across from you with whom to trade playing styles it would be a great help.