For over forty years, I have been making the original Kentucky dulcimer using the best local woods and finest tone woods in the world. The number one priority is playability along with the ease of learning and the enjoyment of the dulcimer.
Over the years, I have made significant improvements while maintaining the integrity of the traditional dulcimer and I continue to detail and set-up each and every instrument that I produce. Woods are hand selected and aged longer to ensure a more consistently fine instrument. Fret boards are the very heart of a dulcimer and are, of course, the most important part. Special building techniques and final finishing of the Kentucky dulcimer make my instruments easy to fret with very clear, mellow, noting qualities for the entire length of the fret scale. My dulcimers are versatile for all tunings and are easy to note, chord, and finger pick.
Lighter construction, very careful selection of woods, and years of experience harmonize in each traditional Kentucky style model. A hand-carved scroll, beading and scribing on the edges of the top and along the hour glass shape are some of the authentic details.
Native woods from here in Central Kentucky – walnut, cherry and tulip poplar are used. I have made over 17,000 Appalachian dulcimers, maintaining the authentic design and sound of the mountain dulcimer. My traditional dulcimers are the easiest instruments on which to play tunes or to strum rhythm-style and sing with the three basic chords.
All models have the 6 1/2 fret added for versatility, capable of playing very well in all major tunings with exquisite tone and clarity.The fine finish is four coats of hand-rubbed lacquer. Each dulcimer has four strings with a double melody string for optimum noting qualities.
The tuning keys are Grover Geared in gold or silver. Rosewood pegs may be ordered. Each dulcimer is signed, dated and numbered. It has a lifetime guarantee to the original owner on construction and playability. A good selection of dulcimers is on hand at all times. Additionally, our dulcimers can be shipped.
I am proud that my work has been featured in Popular Woodworking, Fine Woodworking, and seen on HGTV and The American Woodshop.
