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Playing the Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy, Vol. III: Advanced Techniques for Enriching Your Music

Clarence Brooks

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Welcome to the third installment of our comprehensive guide to playing the mountain dulcimer, an enchanting instrument that captivates audiences with its unique sound and rich history. In this volume, we'll delve into advanced techniques to elevate your playing to the next level, unlocking new possibilities for musical expression.

Advanced Fretting Techniques

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Hammer On Technique On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

by Pascal Ibiza

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22445 KB
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	100 pages

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are techniques that allow you to produce notes without plucking the strings. To perform a hammer-on, fret a note and quickly tap another fret with your picking hand to sound that note. Conversely, a pull-off involves fretting two notes, then releasing the higher note while pulling the string up with your picking hand.

Slides

Slide Technique On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Slides involve moving your fretting finger along a string to create a smooth transition between notes. This technique adds a touch of elegance and expression to your playing.

Vibrato

Vibrato Technique On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Vibrato is a subtle but powerful technique that adds depth and emotion to your notes. By gently wiggling your fretting finger, you can create a quivering or warbling effect.

Advanced Plucking Techniques

Double Stops

Double Stop Technique On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Double stops involve plucking two strings simultaneously to create richer harmonies. This technique opens up a wide range of chordal possibilities.

Tremolo

Tremolo Technique On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Tremolo is a rapid, alternating picking motion that creates a shimmering, pulsating effect. It's commonly used to add excitement to melodies and solos.

Fingerpicking

Fingerpicking Technique On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

While most dulcimer players use a strum or pick, fingerpicking allows for more intricate and expressive playing. By using your individual fingers to pluck the strings, you can create complex melodies and harmonies.

Advanced Musical Concepts

Chords and Progressions

Expanding your knowledge of chords and chord progressions will unlock a new level of musicality. Learn to identify different chord types, build chord progressions, and create harmonically interesting arrangements.

Scales and Melodic Patterns

Scale Pattern On The Mountain Dulcimer Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Scales and melodic patterns provide a framework for improvisation and soloing. Study common scales such as the major and pentatonic scales, and experiment with different melodic patterns to create your own unique melodies.

Improvisation

Mountain Dulcimer Player Improvising Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

Improvisation is the art of creating music spontaneously. Start by improvising over simple chord progressions and gradually increase the complexity as your skills develop. Experiment with different scales, melodic patterns, and harmonies to find your own unique voice.

Mastering the advanced techniques presented in this guide will significantly enhance your mountain dulcimer playing. Embrace the possibilities of advanced fretting, plucking, and musical concepts to unlock new levels of expression and creativity. By diligently practicing and experimenting with these techniques, you'll elevate your music to new heights and captivate your audience with the enchanting sounds of the mountain dulcimer.

Playing The Mountain Dulcimer Made Easy Vol III

by Pascal Ibiza

4.2 out of 5