Copyright ©1998-2004 Mickey Cochran

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How To Hold the Mountain Dulcimer

Comfort Comes First
It's very critical that you learn to hold the dulcimer properly, yet comfortably. There are numerous ways to hold the dulcimer; there is no true right or wrong way. A standard hasn't really been set. I've always felt what's right for one person is not necessarily right for another.

1. Begin by sitting in a comfortable armless chair.

2. Place the dulcimer flat on your lap and make sure the strum well is somewhat even with your right hand.

3. Make sure that the instrument is laying flat on both legs at a even level. Sometimes, depending on the heighth of the chair, you'll find it easier to prop the instrument level with some type of footstool.

4. Try strumming the dulcimer with the right hand and fretting with the left hand. Make sure that you've found a comfortable position and are not having any trouble with the instrument sliding of the lap. Here's an illustration depicting what the position should look like:

A note on straps: There are also dulcimer straps available that assist in keeping the mountain dulcimer steady on the lap.

The goal is to balance the dulcimer so that it does not feel as if it wants to fall on its own.

Copyright ©1998-2004 Mickey Cochran

Dulcimer Website Map • Return to Lessons Section • Return to Homepage