I have both an Appalachian and Hammer(ed?) Dulcimer gathering dust for the most part. When I'm ready to woodshed, the guitar and mandolin hold my attention more. I also have an accordian, fiddle and various pennywhistles. I'm years (if ever) from mastery of the latter instruments, but dulcimer, well.... I just play it. The learning curve is much less formitable.

I can appreciate, and even be briefly inspired by a great dulcimer player, but my natural approach is to "draw" music from a guitar rather than "beat" it from a dulcimer. I hope that you find more fulfillment with the dulcimer than I've been able to muster, and I hope that you report back on your progress.

Peace & Love Lucius