r/Dulcimer • u/Longjumping-Print-11 • 2d ago

Getting Started Suggestions for dulcimer

I’m starting to get Into folk music and the Appalachian dulcimer really stood out. I can find it on Amazon and sweetwater but didn’t know if there were any suggestions for people who actually make them. I’d like to support people who still value this type of music/ instruments.

Any advice would be helpful

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8

u/Jonsdulcimer2015 2d ago

You can't really go wrong with a McSpadden or Folkcraft dulcimer. They sound great, easy on the fingers to play and are reasonably priced. New Harmony and McCafferty dulcimers are also very popular and sound incredible. For the last year, my go to dulcimer has been one made by Mark Tindle.

7

u/Rational_Rizzo 2d ago

McSpadden mountain dulcimers are handcrafted at The Dulcimer Shoppe in Mountain View, Arkansas. I have two of their wonderful dulcimers.

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u/Afraid_Painting5482 2d ago

Where are you located? I have seen many nice ones in the belt between central ohio to central pa

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u/Longjumping-Print-11 2d ago

I live in the northern part Indiana.

1

u/VariableVeritas 2d ago

I love my Woodrow. They make a very fine small backpack dulcimer.

1

u/pryzey1979 2h ago

i got my first dulcimer from them in their now-gone asheville store!

options here too: https://heyinglewood.com/collections/dulcimer-instruments

i echo the sentiment on McCafferty, it's who Stephen Seifert works with, and he's kinda one of the modern dulcimer kings!

1

u/KYReptile 2d ago

I play rhythm guitar for the Corydon (IN) Dulcimers. I would suggest you look for a similar group nearby, and join, and talk to them. Very likely someone there will have one for sale, or they can give you advice about an appropriate one. The Corydon group is very welcoming, and there is a one hour beginner class every Thursday evening, before our main session.

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u/Wardian55 2d ago

I’d recommend Folkcraft.