Dulcimer

A dulcimer is a stringed musical instrument traditionally used in folk music, particularly in the Appalachian region. It typically features a curved or trapezoidal wooden body with multiple strings stretched over a fretboard. The strings are plucked or strummed to produce sound, which is often rich and resonant. There are different types, including the hammered dulcimer—played with small mallets—and the Appalachian or mountain dulcimer—played with fingerpicks or directly on the strings. Its gentle, melodic tone makes it popular for solo performances and ensemble settings in traditional and contemporary folk music.