I humorously make an analogy between my dulcimers and golf clubs. A golfer uses the right club for different applications, and it seems that my collection has grown to the point that there is a different instrument for different songs and styles.
Thus, due to the many inquiries, I will release which instruments are in my collection. This is my collection as it stands today, and it should not be viewed as the only instruments that I would put my stamp of approval on. There many, many more quality builders, makes, and models that deserve recognition. With that stated there are some dulcimers which are on my “want list”, as funding permits.
RL Tack and Son Pro Chromatic 3
This has been my primary instrument since 2001 when I received it for winning 2nd at Winfield. I love the tone and balance of the instrument. The thing I like the most about it is that there is no limitations with the styles of music that sound appropriate for it. That doesn’t mean, however, that other instruments may sound better with select styles, but this instrument just seems to blend with whatever I want to do. To the shock of the dulcimer community, Bob Tack unexpectedly passed away and his instruments are now only available used. Bob was a friend of mine, and he is dearly missed.
This is the instrument I used on every track of Stillness and all but but Zephyr and Autumn Rains on Desire for Departure.
Masterworks Russell Cook Edition w/ dampers
Masterworks was my choice in 2003. I really like the way that it handles minor keys, arpeggios, and slower paced, melancholy music. The lows and highs are very soothing, and it sports some nice warmth with a sweet voice. Also, while expensive, the cable damper system provides great control.
I used it for Zephyr on Desire for Departure.
Mike Huddleson Josh Messick Edition
In 2003, Mike asked me how he could improve his instrument. I said he needed to add some more bass options and provide a model with a spruce soundboard. Thus, this instrument was created. It has a marvelous sweetness with a music box like tone. Lots of sparkle! It is fully chromatic, and provides some well-toned, warm bass notes. This is not a powerful instrument, and it really excels in the hands of players who want to play soothing, peaceful music. It is almost harp like.
I’ve really been impressed with the way that Mike wants to make instruments as good as he can. There is a reason he is one of three hammer dulcimer vendors at Winfield, and he really makes a solid instrument that may be the one that is the right fit for you. Most recently, this instrument was the choice of the 2008 champion.
I used it for Autumn Rains on Desire for Departure
Masterworks Soprano w/ spruce soundboard
I really like this instrument, and I personally think it sounds best when plucked. If you’re an ethusiast, get one. The soprano dulcimer sure is alot of fun, beautiful sounding, and very portable!
Ardies Hammer Dulcimer, Custom
While I don’t play it often, I like the way the dulcimer handles old tyme, folk music, etc. It’s got a real mountain-music tone. Dana Hamilton was “instrumental” in the design.
Current Want List
Dusty Strings D650 w/dampers – I feel that my music is progressively becoming more modern and percussively driven. I can’t think of a better instrument than the D650 to play this style with. The extended range is awesome! The design really highlights the hammer dulcimer’s percussive qualities. As funding permits, I’ll have one.
Rick Thum 17/17 – This is a wonderful, versatile instrument. While any style can be played on it, I personally think that it really pops with old tyme/folk/bluegrass music. It has a wonderful dynamic range, good balance, even sustain,and it packs a good punch.