What gauge strings does a dulcimer use?
What gauge strings does a dulcimer use?
On a typical dulcimer string gauges range between about 0.026 in. and 0.010 in.
Can I use guitar strings on my dulcimer?
If you need stainless steel or wound strings and you’re not near a “dulcimer string” source, you might be able to use a guitar or octave mandolin string of the same or smaller gauge if it’s long enough. One or two courses of each type/gauge should do the trick.
What kind of strings go on a dulcimer?
Appalachian dulcimers are strung with metal wire strings; wound strings may be used for the lower pitched courses. These strings are very similar to those used on banjos and guitars, and before manufacturers provided special “dulcimer sets”, banjo strings were frequently used.
How often should you change dulcimer strings?
I change mine every 3-4 months, depending on how much I’m playing. I recommend changing strings on all fretted instruments at least once a year. Hammered dulcimer and autoharp players won’t need to change them as often, but those strings eventually need to be replaced too!
How is a dulcimer tuned?
There are two common tunings for mountain dulcimer, DAA and DAD. In DAA, the bass string is tuned to D with the middle and paired melody strings tuned to A. In DAD, the bass string is tuned to D with the middle string tuned to A. That is, the unusual pattern of frets on a mountain dulcimer renders a seven-tone scale.
Can you use banjo strings on a dulcimer?
Since the first and fifth strings of a banjo are identical, you can use these for your first and second strings. If you have double first strings, use the banjo first and fifth there. You can then use the banjo second for the middle string on the dulcimer.
What key is a dulcimer in?
There are two common tunings for mountain dulcimer, DAA and DAD. In DAA, the bass string is tuned to D with the middle and paired melody strings tuned to A. In DAD, the bass string is tuned to D with the middle string tuned to A….Modes and Tunings for the Mountain Dulcimer.
| Major Modes | Minor Modes |
|---|---|
| Ionian | Dorian |
How much does it cost to restring a dulcimer?
If you want me to completely restring your dulcimer, the cost would be: Small Hammered Dulcimers (12/11, 15/14, 16/15s) add $55 labor, $10 for new acetal, and return shipping to the actual cost of the strings.
What are the 4 strings on a dulcimer?
A four-string dulcimer has one bass string, one middle string, and two melody strings. A five-string dulcimer has two bass strings, one middle string, and two melody strings. When there is a set of strings (two bass strings or two melody strings), all strings in that set should be tuned in the same manner.
What kind of strings do you use for Dulcimer?
For a brighter and resonating brilliance, choose C.F. Martin’s dulcimer set with silvered steel plain and nickel alloy wound strings. The 80/20 bronze wound strings from John Pearse provide a warmer tone for strumming. You will also find stainless wound strings in sets from GHS and SIT for even more projection.
Why are master works hammer dulcimers so special?
Our instruments are revered around the world and our hammer dulcimers have been chosen by more than 25 National Champions. Everyone who dedicates their life to working at Master Works knows you are special and deserve our full attention to the details necessary to assure your success.
What’s the difference between Appalachian and hammered dulcimer strings?
Unlike hammered dulcimer strings, which is played with a small mallet, Appalachian dulcimer strings are played by plucking or strumming. At JustStrings.com, we carry dulcimer strings by trusted string manufacturers, including C.F. Martin, D’Addario, GHS, John Pearse, SIT and Curt Mangan.
