A hammered dulcimer is a string instrument made with a sounding board in a unique trapezoid shape. It has diatonically-tuned strings overlapping each bridge. The string sets (courses) are tuned as one. It is played by striking it by a mallet held in each hand.
The hammered dulcimer is believed to have originated in Iran over 2,000 years ago. It is a popular instrument in East Anglia, Wales, Middle East, Northumbria, Thailand, and China. It is also used in playing folk music in America, Bavaria, and Austria.
Skill level: If you are a beginner, choose an inexpensive hammered dulcimer made of walnut or rock maple to practice on. You can upgrade to a higher-quality, rosewood hammered dulcimer as you get better at playing. Number of string courses: Choose a standard 12/11 hammered dulcimer if you are a beginner. As you get better, you can move on to a 15/14 hammered dulcimer with an extra bottom and top notes.
Quality: For quality and accuracy, choose a ready-made hammered dulcimer over a one that comes in a kit that you have to build yourself.
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