Folkcraft Player - David Hooten

I purchased this Folkcraft chromatic dulcimer after conversations with Richard in which he made recommendations regarding several aspects of the instrument. I have never been sorry I listened to his advice and bought what he suggested. The instrument was delivered in early April, 2020 just after everyone went into lockdown. Very fortunate timing - Richard's final advice to me was "play it a lot". Perfect timing!

I came to the dulcimer late in life; now having played for approximately 10 years. Music has been an important part of my life. Piano lessons were started at the age of 5 and from there I went to woodwinds. In college, I even played a trumpet for a time. But, big hole in my musical experience. I had never played a string instrument (except for one group performance with no practice on a bass) and that wasn't a performance that I care to remember. But it did whet my appetite for strings. When two friends suggested the dulcimer, I jumped at the chance and, as they say, the rest is history.

I now do some arranging as well as playing. Nothing like going back and trying to recall music theory from 60 years ago. Fortunately, my daughter has had more theory, more recently, so she has been a great help. I love to learn and the dulcimer and all the fine instructors at festivals will always be appreciated as well as the group of people that I play with who mostly have a good sense of humor when things don't go so well.

It's a trip. So glad for the dulcimer in my life.