I'll start by saying thank you....

[thisoldman]

To this site - those beginners that post questions I would ask and the veterans who answer them. And to those who took the time to post tabs.

To those who post written information online and those who post youtube videos. Strumelia, your site is a real goldmine for beginners. The online information has been a resource for education. And the videos of players sharing their music is a source for inspiration.

To the harpmaker, for answering all my emails and getting me my student model in two days once I made the plunge. Thanks, Dave.

When I retired a few years ago I was looking for a hobby to keep my mind active. Not a lot of musical talent here, but I was going to give it a try. Decided to try a stringed instrumetn. Tried a mandolin - strings too close together. Then a bass - much better, but not designed to be a melody instrument (but learned how to read tab). My wife's guitar called my name, but again the strings were too close for my (big)fingers - but did learn to read standard notation.

A few weeks ago, I came along some reference to a dulcimer. Started researching online. Hmmm -- 1.5" fretboard, only 3 sets of strings. No cross string picking unless I want to. Melody string(s), and a perfect fifth and an octave for "accompanyment" -- maybe this is it!

After much more reading I made the plunge and ordered my dulcimer. After tuning up, which took only a few minutes, I started picking some notes. In another half hour (much to my surprise) I was able to pick out the beginning of a a simple song by ear!!

Has been great fun these last few days, working on one of the beginner standards and picking out another easy tune by ear, and am looking for more fun in the future.

Again, thanks to all.....

[rendesvous1840]

I love it when a plan comes together!
Paul

[folkfan]

Enjoy the music and keep having fun. That's what it's all about.

[frets alot]

Sounds like you're off and running. I hope you have many years ahead of dulcimer playing. Don't forget to try to make it to some festivals. They are full of good instruction and fun times.

[Robin T]

You're off to a great beginning, TOM! Harpmaker has helped so many folks get off to a great start with an instrument that's well-made and great sounding. Everything Dulcimer and Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer are fantastic resources. The dulcimer world is a nice place.

Robin T

[KenH]

Welcome to our little corner of musical Paradise. Let the Journey begin!!

[kwl]

Welcome to ED and the mountain dulcimer. It's good to have you aboard. Enjoy your dulcimer journey.

Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

[harpmaker]

Well, you lucked out on the two days. You called at just the right time (when I had one in stock that wasn't already spoken for) and the post office moved quicker than usual.

But there is no luck or chance involved in the rest. Dulcimer people are just plain "good folks". Between ED and FOTMD I think you will find answers to any questions you might have and even the questions you didn't think to ask.

Enjoy your dulcimer and I am glad you decided to join the fun.

[Dulci-Mama]

Welcome! You will find many wonderful and helpful people here, as you've already found out. Enjoy your music.

[brashley46]

Yes indeed! any questions you have just post ... if we know the answer we'll respond, if nobody does somebody will make it up to fit. That's the folk tradition!