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The Mountain Dulcimer also known as the Appalachian Dulcimer is a type of musical instrument that looks like an odd shaped guitar or mandolin but is actually quite something else.
It belongs to the Zither type of stringed instruments that essentially have just three or four strings that require diatonic fretting. Unlike other musical instruments that have to be placed on the floor or a table or across the body as in the case of a guitar, a mountain dulcimer can be placed on the lap for hours of tireless play.
This type of dulcimer is said to have originated in parts of Continental Europe and are said to be imported into America mainly through the early Irish and Scottish settlers. Research carried out in this respect has shown some beautiful Zither type dulcimers from the above mentioned regions that hold close resemblances to this melodious instrument.
The mountain dulcimer can be played easily when laid across the lap but produces clearer and better sound when placed on a hard surface such as a table or a stand. To play it effectively the musician plucks at the strings with one hand and frets with his other, although each individual has or develops their own unique style over the years. Dulcimers gained such popularity in the 19th century that they were played with equal splendor and grandeur in parlors across homes in the Appalachian Mountains.
Mountain dulcimers are made from a range of materials such as hard wood, plywood on a traditional basis and carbon fiber or cardboard for temporary use. Typically used dulcimer types are the Courting Dulcimer that allows dual play, the Bowed Dulcimer that can be played with a bow or the Double Neck Dulcimer that has two fret boards or necks. Other variants in the theme would be the Stick, Guitar, Aquavina, Banjo, Electric or Resonator Dulcimer.
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