Play dulcimer with me?

Subject: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,Kytrad
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 02:59 PM

To celebrate the dulcimer's becoming Kentucky's state instrument, I'm presenting my old dulcimer(that came to New York with me in 1947) to the Kentucky Historical Society Museum at Frankfort. This will be done during the program on the Old Capitol Mall on the evening of Sept. 29th. Program begins at 5:00 PM and ends around 11. My set is at 7:00PM. Friends are bringing dulcimers, all tuned to the key of G, and will play and sing along with me on my last number (all chose Amazing Grace, as everyone knows it, and it's easy!).

I would love to have any dulcimer-playing Mudcatters living in the area, to come and join in. If you're not attracted by the thought of doing this- the news that Sam Bush is closing the concert may draw you there just to listen... Love to all, Jean

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 03:04 PM

Oh, wow, Jean! That would be a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime treat! How generous of you. My son doesn't play, but he and his SO love good music and live near there. I'll be sure to let him know. Maybe they'll be able to attend.

Congratulations and thanks for letting us know and the invitation.

All the best,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Marymac90
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 03:25 PM

For those who might not know, the above invitation is from Jean Ritchie. Thanks, Jean. The Mudcat is honored.

I remember practicing from Jean's book, called, I think, _In Search of the Wild Dulcimer_, many years ago, with both my wooden dulcimer, and my cardboard one. The cardboard one came from Backyard Music, and over 20 years ago I used to prepare and assemble the dulcimer kits. David ....., (CRS!) the owner of the tiny company, moved from Phila to New Haven, but I would bet he's still making and selling cardboard dulcimers and kits. It's incredible to see him lead a sizable group of kids through the steps of putting a dulcimer together, and then teach them how to start playing, all in a couple of sessions over one weekend!

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,kytrad
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 03:41 PM

Thank you, Merrymac90- Mine is just called, The Dulcimer Book. In Search of the Wild... was Force/D'Osshe I believe. And yes, I'm Jean Ritchie (who seems to have lost her cookies, as I've suddenly become a "Guest.")

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 04:19 PM

I've learned from Jean's book, just this year, as has my sister, bet. It is an honour to have you here among us, Jean. Thank you.

Now about that cookie...here's a recipe of recovery for you: Go to the Quick Links box on the main thread page, or up above on this page, Choose Reset Cookie and follow that process. It should fix you up right as rain.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Marymac90
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 04:32 PM

Ooops! Sorry, Jean! I had more than one dulcimer book that I puzzled over back then. Sorry I mixed yours up with the other one! I told ya'll about my CRS!

If you have any trouble with kat's directions on re-setting your cookie, you can let Max and the elves know about it under the HELP heading.

Marymac

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Pinetop Slim
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 05:05 PM

This is about the greatest invitation any dulcimer player could ever hope to get. I just wish Frankfort weren't so far away. I'm marking the calendar to play "Amazing Grace" around 8 p.m. that day.
I'm curious about who built that first dulcimer. Guessing from the Dulcimer Book, I'd bet it was Mr. Singleton.

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 05:57 PM

I will mark my calendar also to play Amazing Grace at the prescribed time. While I cannot be there in person I will be there in spirit. Why don't we all try to play along with Jean at that time? Thanks, Jean, for the invite. Sorry I can't make it. :-(

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Sorcha
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 07:19 PM

I can do that!! Then, can we say we played with Jean? Lessee, 7 NYC time is 5 here, so say close to 6?

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 08:34 PM

Oh what a good idea! I will, too!

Sorcha, according to my handy-dandy world time clock thingie, Lexington, KY is only an hour's difference from me. I can't get it to zero in on Frankfort, so would one of you in that area let us know for sure, please. Point of reference, we are two hours behind Mudcat time. Thanks!

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 08:34 PM

EAT YOUR HEART OUT MUDCATTERS!

I'll be there! And this gives me a reason to practice up on Amazing Grace. Jean, I'll bring several dulcimer players with me...I'm sure the Louisville Dulcimer Club knows, but just in case, I'll pass the word to Vikinglass and JamesJim! Oooooo, this is gonna be fun!

(Sorcha, you didn't know that dulcimer you sent me would see such times as these.)

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 08:38 PM

kat, Frankfort is on Eastern time. (Mudcat time)

Louisville is west of Frankfort and also on Eastern time.

I'm southeast of Louisville and on Eastern time.

The Central time zone begins just west of Elizabethtown on the Hardin County border.

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Sorcha
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 08:40 PM

Mary, I'm just very glad "my" dulcimer has a good home!!

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Robin2
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 09:40 PM

This is great, Jean!

I am curious...who made that dulcimer Jean?

Robin

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 09:46 PM

What is this thread doing with a BS prefix huh???

*G*

Is there time to learn dulcimer? Just kidding. Ah, what a thing to do, it's grand.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: Play dulcimer with me?
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 11:52 PM

Thanks, MaryinKy!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: black walnut
Date: 23 Aug 01 - 09:46 AM

I live in Canada. Oy.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,kytrad
Date: 23 Aug 01 - 01:59 PM

What a lovely response- thanks y'all- I'll be hearing all those far-away dulcimers playing in my heart, on the 29th! But rethink your time if you want to be in synch, as it's the last song on the set, which will be forty-five minutes or so (well we can't be EXACTLY in synch, and it doesn't matter a whit).

That dulcimer was made by Jethro Amburgy of Hindman, Knott Co., KY, where Dad Ritchie was born and raised. Jethro, a second cousin once removed, was a pupil of his neighbor Ed Thomas.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 03 Sep 01 - 01:35 PM

Today is the 3rd of September, Labor Day here in the US. I'm refreshing this thread and aim to keep it alive until the 29th comes along. I fully intend to be here playing Amazing Grace to the best of my ability around 7:40 PM EDT. What a joyful noise we will all make!!!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mudlark
Date: 03 Sep 01 - 03:38 PM

Oh, what a thing...to be able to play along in spirit with the queen of the dulcimers! I'll be playing along on my old McSpadden....Thank you so much for this opportunity!

Nancy

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: bet
Date: 03 Sep 01 - 08:13 PM

Congradulations! What an honor. I've had my dulcimer only a short time and love it. The kids at school are enjoyng it also. I'd love to play but can't make it. I'm sure it will be great. Those of us who can't make it will be really missing somethng. bet

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 04 Sep 01 - 11:56 AM

Oh man! If I still lived in Columbus or Cincy., you wouldn't be able to see me heading that way for the dust storm behind me!

Would someone please report back on the doins' there?

This ol' Cherokee hillbilly is plumb heartsick.

I'll be adding to the far away chorus that day as well.

I hearby declare this day as National Lap Dulcimer Strummin' Day!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: SharonA
Date: 04 Sep 01 - 01:32 PM

Well, geez, now I've gotta go find myself a dulcimer. I only have less than a month to learn it... (we ARE talking about a mountain dulcimer, here, aren't we? I'd despair of learning hammer dulcimer in a month) Guess I know what song I'll learn first.

So what's a good dulcimer name to look for when shopping? (I don't particularly want a cardboard one)

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Sep 01 - 01:59 PM

Sharon....There are lots of threads and lots of opinions of course, but THIS is tough to beat. Very nice playing and sounding dulcimer at a great price....Ask kat....I convinced her and she likes hers a lot. Really....SPruce top, mahoghany bask and sides, all solid, 6 1/2 fret, graba gig bag and off you go!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: SharonA
Date: 04 Sep 01 - 02:17 PM

Yeah, I just took a glance at her "I got one!" thread, as a matter of fact! It's hard to tell from the picture you linked to: does this model have scrollwork at the head (I really like that little touch)?

BTW, catspaw, my apologies: in my previous post, I should have said "hammered" dulcimer, not "hammer". Shame on me. (Now THERE'S my dream instrument!!! pant pant pant)

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST
Date: 04 Sep 01 - 04:37 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 05 Sep 01 - 06:18 PM

Only twenty days to go!!!!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mudlark
Date: 05 Sep 01 - 11:32 PM

Sharon....I like my McSpadden just fine. But once you've heard a Blue Lion Dulcimer it's pretty hard to be satisfied with anything less. Not cheap, but worth the price. Wish I had it....the price, that is...here is a site with info

www.simplesounds.com/mtdulcimers.htm

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 07:45 AM

In a post back on the 5th I indicated only 20 days to go...Must have been anxious and misfigured...As of today there are 21 days to go. *BRFG* (Big RED FACED Grin)

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: black walnut
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 08:19 AM

I agree, Mudlark. You usually get what you pay for. I love my pricey Bear Meadow made for me by Dwain Wilder in Rochester. I have the black walnut standard hourglass, with planetary tuners, and where many dulcimers have heart-shaped holes, mine are shaped like mangolia blossoms. It's a beautiful instrument to play. I think that the better the instrument, the less you have to fight with it to make good music. And even a beginner deserves some of that kind of peace.

LINK: Bear Meadow Dulcimers

~black walnut

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 11:20 AM

.....and I think that both of you should try one of Warren May's fine dulcimers.

I'm still not sure if I can do this on the 29th, but I'm trying to figure a way to be there.....we'll see.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 11:27 AM

If anyone wants to fly into Louisville or Lexington airports, I can pick you up!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: black walnut
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 11:37 AM

Hey, Spaw, I'll try ANY fine dulcimer! But up here north of the US border, there's really not much to see in the way of dulcimers at instrument shops or at festivals. A few months ago I went dulcimer shopping with a friend, and couldn't find even one dulcimer in Toronto that was either ready or willing to play even the simplest tune. I think that people buy these inexpensive instruments, thinking it's an easy thing to learn, but not wanting to put much investment into it, then they get frustrated, and then hang the dulcimer up over the fireplace as a pretty wall decoration.

I love to look at nice dulcimers on the web. But I love to play my Bear Meadow. I asked my friend Grit Laskin, the world-famous luthier, to examine my dulcimer for any major or minor flaws, and he declared, "There's absolutely nothing wrong with this instrument!". I know there are other great dulcimer makers out there, and I envy you guys who've tried them all, the good and the bad. I'm just glad that I got hooked up with Dwain Wilder, through Lorraine Hammond, and got an instrument I could grow into. It's a beauty.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: black walnut
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 11:44 AM

P.S. By the way, I should mention that I learned the basics of dulcimer on one made out of a cardboard kit, while I waited several months for mine to be made. The kit dulcimer was equal or better than many other dulcimers I've played. It was an excellent way to begin.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 11:56 AM

I know B-W!!! Hey, here's an article you might enjoy a bit about Berea (where I went to school) and about 2/3 of the way down, you'll find some info about Warren Mays. Just above that is a paragraph referring to Neil and Mary Colmer........Neil is a weaver and was a good buddy of mine in college and his wife Mary is Arnie Naiman's sister-in-law..........CLICK HERE

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: black walnut
Date: 08 Sep 01 - 12:17 PM

Oh, fun! Arnie and Kathy are friends of mine.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 09 Sep 01 - 02:02 PM

As of today there are 20 days to go!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 09 Sep 01 - 02:54 PM

Banjer, you tickle me with all this Refreshing...it's refreshing! Are you bringing your dulcimer to Kentucky on the 29th? Oh and as to that, IF any Mudcatters ARE there, please say hello. Jean

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 09 Sep 01 - 03:59 PM

No, Jean, unfortunately I won't be able to make that trip. Not physically at least, but I will be there in spirit, playing right along with your 'Amazing Grace' about 7:40PM.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 13 Sep 01 - 12:30 AM

In keeping with our various leaders and their advice as concerns not giving in to terrorist acts and carrying on with our daily routines after the tragedy at the WTC, I suggest that we all play our dulcimers or other intstruments in memory of those lost and in honor of their loved ones remaining behind.

We are taking the first step on the long road to healing and our music can make a difference!

Please, there are enough threads dealing with the actual attacks, let us keep this one purely musical. Thanks, Banjer

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 13 Sep 01 - 04:05 PM

Personally, I like my Keith Young model. I also built a kit instrument years ago that I use when not playing with the Brandywine Dulcimer Fellowship. I like it's high, sweet, and quiet sound.

Jean, if you are still there, your book was the first one that I played from. I still have it. A few years ago, a good friend of mine used the cover of it to lay out a cross stitch pattern and stitched it for me. I'm a lefty ( but I play right handed ) and she turned it around to show you playing left handed! It hangs on my wall along with my dulcimers and I get many favorable comments on it.

Jean, are you ever going to come out with another music book that has some of the tunes from your Kentucky Christmas album on it?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,Russ
Date: 13 Sep 01 - 04:18 PM

Walking Eagle,
BDF!? Hello

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 13 Sep 01 - 04:30 PM

I have a strong suspicion that you must be the ClanH man!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,Russ
Date: 13 Sep 01 - 04:48 PM

Who else?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 14 Sep 01 - 10:30 AM

Fifteen days to go!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 14 Sep 01 - 05:38 PM

Walking Eagle- What a good name- but why aren't you flying? Yes, I'm still here These carols are in my, Folk Songs of the Southern Appalachians:
Brightest and Best, The Little Bitty Baby, I Saw Three Ships, and Carol of the Cherry Tree.

The following are in my, Celebration of Life:
The Holly Carol, I Saw Three Ships, Ring the Christ Church Bells, and In the Valley.

But your're right, some of those on the Christmas CD have not yet been published. Wintergrace, for instance. My son Jon's, A King Was Born we have in choral arrangement, sheet music, but not in a book.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 15 Sep 01 - 05:41 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 15 Sep 01 - 06:59 PM

Jean, I'm so sorry that I MIGHT not be able to make it afterall. I'll know more later, but may have to do some driving for a family member that weekend.

I borrowed my sister's McSpadden dulcimer and have been practicing Amazing Grace diligently. (Several tunings even! with and without the G7 chord!)

Whether I'm there in the flesh or not...I'll be there in spirit.

Mary (still practicing!)

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 15 Sep 01 - 11:48 PM

Yes, Walking Eagle, I also have been wondering, "Why is the eagle walking?"

~S~

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 15 Sep 01 - 11:52 PM

FAA Regulations probably.......

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 16 Sep 01 - 06:15 AM

The Eagle probably walks because all around him are turkeys and can't fly. It gets lonely up there with no company!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 16 Sep 01 - 08:30 PM

Mary in Kentucky- Oh, POOEY! I do hope you will be able to come after all, but quite understand if family matters have come up- Family is first, always. Jean

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,Walking Eagle
Date: 18 Sep 01 - 11:59 AM

12 more days!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 19 Sep 01 - 11:20 AM

In view of recent tragic events, I think that something that is purely American as our little instrument is a national symbol as well as our flag. Please, catters, those of you that can come DO come and don't be affraid. Display our little beloved dulcimers with pride! Amazing Grace is very appropriate! **Sigh** With many tears.

Eleven days and counting!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Frailin Gill
Date: 19 Sep 01 - 12:23 PM

I won't be able to join you in Kentucky as I'm a bit too far away (lancashire, U.K.)and I don't have a dulcimer but I would very much like to join you in spirit by singing the song and playing my clawhammer banjo (slowly). I'll have to do some sums to work out what time it will be here.

This will be a great honour as, Jean, you have been a great influence in my musical direction.

As walking eagle says, it will be a fitting tribute, and my little banjo was made in Philadelphia, brought over here by my great grandmother at the turn of the century.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Frailin Gill
Date: 19 Sep 01 - 12:35 PM

ps I mean,of course, the last century.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 19 Sep 01 - 03:19 PM

Banjer, I need a little help keepin' this here thread alive!

Nice to meetcha Frailin Gill!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 19 Sep 01 - 04:17 PM

By all means, Frailin Gill, play banjo, bongo- anything ya got now! If we get some guitars, fiddles, mandolins, basses- we'll have a whole string band (string orchestra?)! I'll be listening to you... Jean

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 20 Sep 01 - 06:52 AM

Walking Eagle, you are doing a fine job, but I will jump in and help. I had been considering recording myself on banjo and acompanying the recording with the dulcimer. I'll have to experiment and see how that works.
The thought also occured to me that those of us not able to attend the event with Jean could put together a playlist and carry on a bit after we paly Amazing Grace.
I agree with you that given the events of recent past, a betetr choice of songs could not have been made.
I have been playing with the idea of a rewrite of the Civil War song, Battle Cry Of Freedom.

Yes, we'll rally round the flag boys,
We'll rally once again,
Shouting the battle cry of freedom,
We will rally from the hillside,
We'll gather from the plain,
Shouting the battle cry of freedom
Our country together,
We'll show the world
Our glorious banner shall never be furled
Yes, we'll rally round the flag boys,
We'll rally once again,
Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!

Any thoughts as to where to go from there?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 20 Sep 01 - 05:27 PM

ten days to go.

I'm sure that 'catters could come up with some different words for the song. I'm not familiar with that one. A play list sounds good.

W.E.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 20 Sep 01 - 06:20 PM

Alright, a play list. We will of course start with Amazing Grace. I will probably follow that with some gospel numbers such as What A Friend We Have In Jesus, Jesus Bless The Little Children, Church In The Wildwood, Old Coubtry Church, and who knows from there! Any other suggestions, additions, or comments? Anybody?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: GUEST,Walking Eagle
Date: 21 Sep 01 - 12:30 PM

I'll Fly Away, Down in the Valley to Pray, and Bright Morning Stars come to mind for gospel. Pete Seegers' song about why he keeps singing, I've forgotten the title, comes to mind for the folk singers. For some humor, Alice's Restaurant.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 21 Sep 01 - 05:14 PM

That little song Pete (and many others) sings...
My life goes on in endless song
Above earth's lamentation;
I hear the real, though far-off hymn
That hails the new creation.
No storm can shake my inmost calm,
While to that rock I'm clinging
It sounds an echo in my soul
How can I keep from singing?

What though thunder o'er me rolls?
I feel the life it liveth-
What though the storm around me folds,
Songs in the night it giveth!
Above the tumult and the strife
I hear it's music ringing!
Since love is Lord of heaven and earth-
How can I keep from singing?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 21 Sep 01 - 06:21 PM

Thank you Jean,

I believe I've heard him sing something about tyrants hearing the death bells knelling, or some such a thing, in some new versions of the song.

Anyway, the song is most appropriate for these tragic days.

Thanks again, I'll be in KY in spirit.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 21 Sep 01 - 08:52 PM

May start working on some of our patriotic songs as well. 'America, (Oh Beautiful) would sound right nice on a dulcimer. I can play it fairly well on the banjo and will try to learn it on the dulcimer before our 'opening night'! Walking Eagle, those are some good suggestions you have there. Also add to the suggest pile a lot of Steven Foster's works. Camptown Races and My Old Kentucky Home lend themselves nicely.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 05:49 AM

Seven days, counting today! Must practice some of the songs I want to play. Foster's 'Hard Times' is another one I like to play on the dulcimer. Jean, what are some of the songs you will be doing?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 11:28 AM

Still practicing Amazing Grace here!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 01:15 PM

Jean, I just spoke with a freelance photographer for the AP and The Courier Journal. She'll see what she can do for coverage of the event.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Sharon
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 03:32 PM

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Sharon
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 03:39 PM

Just happened on this thread and was so impressed to see Jean R.'s posting. When I was a young Girl Scout, back in the 50's, our scout troop helped pass out programs at a program at the IMA Auditorium in Flint, MI. The performer was a beautiful young lady who played an instrument I had never before heard of..... a dulcimer. I loved the music, her songs, and her sweet presentation of all of it. I placed the newspaper picture and article in my scrapbook.... which I still have. Never did I dream that I too would one day play a dulcimer, and attend dulcimer festivals, even play in a music session at such a festival, with Jean, which I have done. Our lives certainly travel in wonderful circles, at times, don't they.

Jean, if you're reading this, thank you, from just one of the people your life has touched with music. Your love of the music of the people has spread into lives of others, who continue to spread it.

Sharon, in Indiana

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Pinetop Slim
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 06:46 PM

Six days.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 23 Sep 01 - 06:52 PM

Thank sfor sharing that with us Sharon. Does anyone else have any stories about Jean's influence on their music? She and I have never met but I feel that I have known her for a long time. She answered some e-mails that I sent to her at another website and just her friendly encouragement was an uplifting experience for me. Thanks, Jean, for being there for all of us.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 24 Sep 01 - 10:43 AM

What Sharon and Banjer said **Amen**!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 12:13 AM

Five days....

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 12:16 PM

Up,up,up!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 05:03 PM

Banjer, you asked what I'd be singing at the festival...well you know, I hardly ever decide until a very short time before I start singing- but I guess I'll be sure to do a ballad, maybe "Jackaro," as that has a happy ending, and I'm weary of sad endings these days. And a playparty, perhaps, "March Down to Old Tennessee." And I think that my "in memorium" song for our recent tragedy will be "Flowers of Joy." I do that without accompaniment, usually as a duet with son Jon, but he won't be with me this time, so a solo, with my old voice. Hope for me that it comes out all right!

I don't know what the other songs might be...thanks for your interest. Love to all, Jean

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 06:54 PM

OK Jean, I understand the concept of not editing a playlist before a program. It seems more spontaneous and I guess in many cases works better if one just plays what comes to mind. I will do likewise here at this end. (All except for Amazing Grace around 7:30) I'm sure that 'Flowers Of Joy' will work well, no matter how you do it. Sure wish I could be there!!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 05:27 PM

Counting today, four more days! I like Jackaro as well.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 06:03 PM

2001 Kentucky Folklife Festival: An Overview

Anybody else going? I will probably be there! The weather forecast is gorgeous for next Saturday!

Subject: John Jacob Niles
From: GUEST,JohnJacobNiles.com
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 07:27 PM

The Dulcimer, Kentucky history and John Jacob Niles are inseparable! We'd like to invite you to visit the John Jacob Niles Web site:

http://JohnJacobNiles.com

Thank you!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 08:08 PM

Interesting site...I would bet that Jean knows of him. I can't get the music to play but the reading is inteersting.

This evening plus three days to go!!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 05:15 PM

Mr. Pen, was that you blowing your horn? I do wish I had time to see the JJ Niles site, but this time I've got only the short weekend. Someday soon! And yes, Banjer, I knew Mr. Niles very well (intimates called him Jack), and his wife Rena- both gone now. Niles and I shared many a stage and singing party together. We met when I was nine or so; he came to our home in Viper, Kentucky, bringing Doris Ullman, photographer...that's another story. Anyway, he saw his first dulcimer in our house at that time.

Had a little scare today- my Dr. almost forbade me to go to KY tomorrow (a bit of arhythmia- I've had it on and off for years, and don't worry much about it). He put me on coumadin and digoxyn and looked very fierce, but I have talked him out of the ban... Crossed fingers & prayers, please- and LOTS of playing and singing! Jean

Forgot to sat that there's some sort of seminar (highfallutin name for some folks sittin around talkin and swappin tunes) at 3 PM. The other "sitters" I know of besides me are Eddie Pennington, Sam Bush and Clyde Davanport. Drop in if you get there early, and ask me a question, for goodness sake, to untie my tongue! J.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 08:09 PM

Wow, if Mr. Niles (Jack) was still with us I bet he could tell some interesting stories. Imagine, he saw his first dulcimer at the Ritchie homestead!! He passed it on to many others I'm sure. The more I hear and read, the more I KNOW I am much richer for having made Jean's acquantaince. I wish taht some day we could all sit around and listen to some of the stories she could tell. Ah, one can but dream!!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 28 Sep 01 - 05:59 PM

Tomorrow night! Tomorrow night! I can't wait!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 28 Sep 01 - 08:03 PM

Take care of yourself, dear Jean! We want you and your beating heart back with us after this wonderful-sounding weekend!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 28 Sep 01 - 10:07 PM

Jean, you take care of yourself and I'll have the arrhytmias for both of us......okay? Seriously, do what your doctor says!!!

I'll be here playing along although I was hoping to be in Frankfort. Just not a happening thing though......Kids are WAY too active in soccer and scouts and all that stuff this year. Oddly enough though, I'm playing as an intermission of sorts during a program at the Presbyterian Church here tomorrow night for our little village's Oktoberfest. I'm supposed to fill in about 20 minutes or so and most will be on Hammered, but at 7 (when I should be acting as "filler") I'll pick up my App and play Amazing grace with all of you. The story alone of why I am doing that will kill 5 minutes!!!

BANJ......We've run a couple of threads about Niles here and I guess you missed them, but one dealing with his authenticity is HERE. There are a couple of others as well, but that one contains one of Art's best lines: "JJN's voice always reminded me of a banshee in heat---or the sounds that filled the night when the orphanage burned down."

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 04:43 AM

......TODAY'S THE DAY!!!!!!

Thanks 'Spaw, I'll go look at the Niles info in a bit.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 05:46 PM

I'm leaving now for the Presbyterian church and I'll be clock watching! With any luck, that ought to hit about right.

Jean, I know that we'll all be with you tonight.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 07:24 PM

She should be about halfway through her set. In about ten minutes I figure we will play 'Amazing Grace'. Just finished with 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' Oh, how I would love to be there......

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 07:46 PM

Pulled it off nicely, we did. It sounded great! I even snuck in a version of John Prine's 'Paradise', 'Sloop John B, (get a nice calypso rhythm with a quick back stroke), 'Sweet Bye And Bye' and 'Homestead And A Farm' (aka: 'I Wonder How The Old Folks Are At Home') also got some play time. What an evening!! Earlier this evening, 6:30 t0 7:00 PM I had the great fortune to tune in to the Cumberland Highlanders Show on the Outdoor Channel and watch part one of the dedication of the refurbished Monroe homestead. The first time in 75 years that the old home heard Uncle Penn's fiddle. They played 'Soldiers Joy'. It's funny what can bring tears to the eye!!

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 08:55 PM

Well Banj, that sounds great! I probably was a bit off on the timing of playing as the break came a bit early....But the story of Jean and the Appalachian Dulcimer went well (probably better that my rustyass playing) and we had about fifty folks from here singing Amazing Grace right along. I lined a couple of verses and the whole thing went pretty well.

Thanks again to you Jean for bringing so much of the mountains to so many.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 09:19 PM

I just got home from Frankfort...Jean was wonderful...two standing ovations!

Jean, do you know how much you are loved?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 09:30 PM

Mary, I was just thinking of you....even looked at your Mudcat pix and wondered whether you made it or not. I am so happy that you did for all of us. Only 2 ovations? Probably deserved 3! Glad you were there!!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 10:16 PM

I thought of you too Spaw. I saw where Songcatcher was on the marquee at one of the movie theaters in Frankfort! hehe

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 10:29 PM

.............oy.....................

That was low Mary........I'll get you for that one. Well, maybe not.......At least you didn't start another thread!!!(:<))

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 30 Sep 01 - 01:15 PM

My story is, I was feeling poorly on Saturday so I sat down in my comfy chair. As you can guess, I nodded off. I awoke just at 7:30 and grabbed the nearest dulcimer ( not too hard in my house, tiny ) and started playing. It wasn't in G, but I played anyhow.

How about a complete rundown of the ceremony?

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 30 Sep 01 - 04:04 PM

Hi Walking Eagle. I tried to remember all the songs, but my list is probably not very good. Maybe Jean will stop by the next time she's near a computer and give us the definitive list.

The Cuckoo - reminded me a little of Come All Ye Fair and Tender Ladies, you know, the false hearted lover, etc.

A Child Ballad, something about Henry, the lass lets him die. I can't find this one.

Going to Boston - DT version

Flowers of Joy

Black Waters
also in the DT, Black Waters

Then there were some "play party" songs. One about "put the kettle on" (not Polly) and two about kissing, one for little girls and one for big girls!

One little girl in the audience was thrilled when Jean sang her request for a going to sleep song.

Then of course Amazing Grace. Probably 20-30 of us (I was on your far left, Jean) accompanied her. The last verse was a capella...gorgeous.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Ma-K
Date: 01 Oct 01 - 10:12 AM

I played too. We were at a Boy Scout camp out. They watched the clock so I would be on time....Mary

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 01 Oct 01 - 10:18 AM

Mary,

Thanks for the report. This is bringing tears to my eyes. So much lovely and heartfelt simplicity in these times of uncertainty.

Thanks, W.E.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 01 Oct 01 - 09:51 PM

Greetings everyone- well, I seem to be #100, so here endeth this thread? What fun it has been; you are all so wonderful. I'm not a gushy person but there are times... Mary- are you the one who said, "I'm Mary!" and I hugged your neck? There were several Marys there that night- one who said we were cousins, and helped me with autographing, and another one that helped make the dulcimer Kentucky's official instrument...which one were you? It's always so flustering after I come offstage.

And of course I TOLD many, many folks, beforehand, about all of you in different state and countries who'd be playing with us, and then in my intro, what with having the players in the audience hold up their instruments, etc., just forgot to tell that story...Forgive me- but you'll know that when the song began, I could hear all the distant music from around the world, joining in, and how this world needs it! Thanks to all of you; your support is precious to me.

Mary, the Child ballad was,"Lovin Henry." "Young Hunting" is the Child title.

The heart-jumping was making me breathless, so I don't think I sang very well, but my friends accepted it with good grace. I'm afraid I lost my low notes on "Flowers of Joy," and that's because it has such a range I have to start it almost too low, as at 78 my range is closing down a bit...excuses! excuses! It's on the CD, "None But One," but I'll gladly give words to "Flowers of Joy" to any who'd like them. Or come to New Harmony, IN for the dulcimer gathering (Nov. 17-18 as I remember- check it on webpage), and I promise to be in better voice, and I'm hoping to have son Jon with me to do harmony; he's wonderful!

Love and blessings to all of you- it has been a grand friendly visit! Jean P.S. When I find it, can also complete the song list if there's any interest. J

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: catspaw49
Date: 01 Oct 01 - 10:07 PM

Thanks Jean........Post whatever you like, just know how much we all care for you here and how much you have brought to us. I had such a good time the other night....telling the story of Jean Ritchie and the dulcimer and my little audience sang pretty well, a kind of neat moment knowing what was going on 250 miles away. So now I thank you again for yet another special moment.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 02 Oct 01 - 08:42 AM

Hello again Jean. No, I didn't get to talk to you. I probably should have gone to your seminar instead of taking the riverboat ride! I had never been to that part of Frankfort before, and since I arrived late, I wanted to see the palisades on the river (I have a Paul Sawyier water color of the Kentucky River). It was a disappointment, one of those things you're glad you did once but will never do again! I passed you in the golf cart on your way to the stage, but too late to even holler! BTW, I really enjoyed the performers before you, especially the gospel group who sang a capella, "Oh Mary Don't You Weep."

Thanks for the name of the second song; I'll look it up too. I've enjoyed refreshing my memory on the others.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Frailin Gill
Date: 02 Oct 01 - 05:39 PM

I have been away in Dublin for the weekend and only just got back, to find out how it all went. I had plenty of Irish musicians around me to keep me awake till the desired hour of the early morning and they all knew at least the tune and chorus of Amazing Grace, so there was a good crowd joining you from across the Atlantic.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 02 Oct 01 - 07:09 PM

Mary- I'm SO unhappy not to have met you...let's try again soon. Meanwhile, thanks for the good words. And Frailin Gill, it gives me goosebumps to think of you all in Dublin strumming and singing with us- and Spaw, imagine your talking about us with your audience and making your music with everybody!

Walking Eagle, hope you're feeling better now, and thanks for playing faithfully even if you were "poorly." Banjer, Ma-K, Annimaterra (can't remember everybody!)- such faithful friends...I am deeply honored by you all.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Banjer
Date: 02 Oct 01 - 07:21 PM

All of us are certainly honored to be able to know you , Jean, and to have been able to play along with you from many different corners of the world. You have in no small way been an inspiratiion to us all and have touched our lives in ways that you may never know! Thanks for being here and allowing us to share your company.

Subject: RE: Play dulcimer with me?
From: Walking Eagle
Date: 03 Oct 01 - 04:32 PM

We're honored, Ms Ritchie. I hope to see you ( and maybe play for real with you ) somwhere this side of heaven! Meanwhile, our little Saturday night gig will have to do.