Post by Dick Glasgow on Sept 30, 2007 12:43:51 GMT 1
I thought we might start a list of handy little tips to help newcomers to the Dulcimer.
Why don't we all contribute our favourite tip, then this thread could be a big help to any newcomers.
So, to get us started, here's my contribution.
Please feel free to add your own favourite tip for learners & I'll add it to this list.
Number 1 .......... Use a Black Marker
Use a Black Marker on about 3" of the under strings, either side of the Treble Bridge & to the left of the Bass Bridge.
It's amazing how those lower strings then suddenly disappear, as if by magic!
I find this helps my eyes to focus on the playing strings.
Now it has to be said that one school of thought would encourage learners to look only at the black & white bridge caps, not the strings.
However, as someone who prefers to look at the strings, I must admit I found this tip very helpful, indeed.
Ptarmigan
Use a Black Marker on about 3" of the under strings, either side of the Treble Bridge & to the left of the Bass Bridge.
It's amazing how those lower strings then suddenly disappear, as if by magic!
I find this helps my eyes to focus on the playing strings.
Now it has to be said that one school of thought would encourage learners to look only at the black & white bridge caps, not the strings.
However, as someone who prefers to look at the strings, I must admit I found this tip very helpful, indeed.
Ptarmigan
Number 2 .......... Learn to see shapes on your dulcimer.
When I am playing, the patterns that I see are triangles of all kinds, trapezoids, and the occasional rectangle.
I find that if the pattern is appealing to my mental eye, I remember the tune better.
Gypsy
When I am playing, the patterns that I see are triangles of all kinds, trapezoids, and the occasional rectangle.
I find that if the pattern is appealing to my mental eye, I remember the tune better.
Gypsy
Number 3 .......... Attach dark material to soundboard to help the strings stand out.
As I'm only learning, I find I'm still looking at the strings a lot, so lighting can produce all sorts of confusing shadows below my strings, if the soundboard is a light colour, so I attach dark brown fabric, (or black) with Bluetac, onto the top of the soundboard, below the strings & it's amazing how the strings will then show up much more clearly.
The only problem I have found with this trick is if you then find yourself playing in a dimly lit venue, like the corner of a dingy pub, then you can't see the strings at all.
But of course all you do then is take the fabric off.
As it's on with Bluetac, it's easy to take off & put on.
Dick
As I'm only learning, I find I'm still looking at the strings a lot, so lighting can produce all sorts of confusing shadows below my strings, if the soundboard is a light colour, so I attach dark brown fabric, (or black) with Bluetac, onto the top of the soundboard, below the strings & it's amazing how the strings will then show up much more clearly.
The only problem I have found with this trick is if you then find yourself playing in a dimly lit venue, like the corner of a dingy pub, then you can't see the strings at all.
But of course all you do then is take the fabric off.
As it's on with Bluetac, it's easy to take off & put on.
Dick
Number 4 .......... Use Linda Thompson's Dulcimer Books
Linda Lowe Thompson's books are excellent, and since she has switched to CD as the accompiament, rather than tape, they are even better.
Linda also will answer questions via email, as well as sell direct.
I use the books anytime I teach.......they are the best.
Linda Lowe Thompson's Books & CDs
Gypsy
Linda Lowe Thompson's books are excellent, and since she has switched to CD as the accompiament, rather than tape, they are even better.
Linda also will answer questions via email, as well as sell direct.
I use the books anytime I teach.......they are the best.
Linda Lowe Thompson's Books & CDsGypsy
