Why I Teach My Children Dulcimer

Bruce W. Ford, Pensacola, FL

That's an easy one.

(1) I like the music my group plays. I don't have to worry about sexually explicit lyrics, or even veiled messages in folk music.

(2) My children can start fast on dulcimer and gain confidence quickly.

(3) Other dulcimer players are genuinely interested in helping my children play. This leads to confidence that enables my kids to branch into other instruments.

(4) My children are performing for others with the dulcimer club and that boosts their self esteem.

(4) It's just about the best family activity I know of. It hearkens back to the days of after supper music with the whole family contributing.

(5) They look so cute playing.

(6) They are learning to play music, an endeavor that they will deeply enjoy for the rest of their lives, in it's purest form. They listen and duplicate what they hear.

(7) If they learn young, they have a greater chance of making music part of their lives.

(8) Okay, it's economical. Piano lessons are $80/month and have you ever taken a piano camping? Dulcimer is free. I'm lucky that the members of my group love to pass on knowledge.

(9) My children are around some of the finest people I have ever had occasion to meet.