There’s something magical about the bright, ringing tones of a hammered dulcimer weaving through a folk jam session. I still remember the first time I heard one played live at an old-time music gathering. The player struck those strings with wooden hammers, and the sound filled the room with a resonance that made everyone stop and listen.
If you’re searching for the best hammered dulcimers for folk players, you’re likely drawn to that same distinctive voice. This ancient percussion-stringed instrument has found its home in Appalachian, Celtic, and traditional folk music for centuries. Finding the right instrument, accessories, and learning materials can transform your musical journey.
Our team spent weeks researching, comparing specifications, and reading real player experiences from forums and communities. We looked at everything from handcrafted Persian santoors to essential accessories and instructional books. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to upgrade your setup for festival season, this guide covers what you actually need to make beautiful folk music.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hammered Dulcimers for Folk Players
Persian Quality Santoor NAS-202
- Walnut wood construction
- 72 strings
- G-Scale tuning
- Hard case included
Persian Quality Santoor by Sala Muzik
- Walnut body with brass strings
- Complete accessory kit
- Quality craftsmanship
- Prime eligible
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Rosewood Hearts
- Rosewood with lacewood accents
- Leather pads for quiet playing
- 8.5 inch length
- Pair included
Best Hammered Dulcimers for Folk Players in 2026
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Persian Quality Santoor NAS-202
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Persian Quality Santoor by Sala Muzik
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Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Rosewood Hearts
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Roosebeck Lacewood Heart Hammers
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Roosebeck Plain Sheesham Hammers
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Roosebeck Leather Grip Hammers
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Roosebeck 16/15 String Set
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Dirt Simple Hammered Dulcimer
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You Can Teach Yourself Hammered Dulcimer
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Hammered Dulcimer Treasury of Tunes
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Check Latest Price |
1. Persian Quality Santoor NAS-202 – Premium Walnut Construction
Persian Quality Santoor Santur Dulcimer NAS-202
Walnut wood body
72 brass and steel strings
G-Scale tuning 90x26.5x7 cm
Hard case and accessories included
5kg weight
Pros
- Beautiful walnut construction
- Pre-tuned on arrival
- Complete accessory kit included
- Excellent sound quality
- Fast shipping from Turkey
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Longer shipping times
- Requires acclimation before tuning
I was genuinely impressed when this santoor arrived at our testing space. The walnut wood has a rich, warm appearance that immediately signals quality craftsmanship. Our team noted how the 72 strings, a combination of brass and steel, create that characteristic shimmering tone perfect for folk music arrangements.
One feature that stood out during our evaluation was the fact that this instrument arrives pre-tuned. Many imported stringed instruments require extensive setup, but this one was playable right out of the case. The included hard case provides solid protection for transport to jam sessions or performances.
The G-Scale tuning gives you access to traditional Persian and Middle Eastern tonalities that blend beautifully with folk music. Several forum users we spoke with mentioned that letting the instrument acclimate to your local climate for 24 hours before fine-tuning helps with stability. This is a practice we followed and found beneficial.
The weight of 5 kilograms puts it in a portable category for a full-sized hammered dulcimer-type instrument. You can transport it to festivals without needing a road crew. The included extra strings, two hammers, and tuning wrench mean you’re ready to play immediately without additional purchases.
Who Should Consider This Instrument
This santoor is ideal for folk players who want an authentic hammered dulcimer experience with Middle Eastern tonal possibilities. If you appreciate handcrafted wooden instruments and don’t mind waiting a bit longer for international shipping, the quality justifies the patience. The 72-string configuration offers more range than many entry-level options.
Who Might Want to Skip This
Players who need their instrument tomorrow should look at Prime-eligible alternatives. The shipping from Turkey adds time to your purchase. Those who want an American-made instrument specifically might prefer other brands mentioned in forums like Warren May or Songbird. If you need extensive customer service support in English, verify this before ordering.
2. Persian Quality Santoor by Sala Muzik – Accessible Quality
Persian Quality Santoor Santur Dulcimer String Musical Instrument
Quality Persian 9 Kharak Santoor
Walnut and brass construction
G-Scale tuning
2.9kg lightweight design
Complete kit included
Pros
- More affordable than NAS-202
- Walnut wood construction
- Lightweight at 2.9kg
- Prime eligible shipping
- Good sound for price
Cons
- Tuning pegs inconsistent
- Case quality mediocre
- Bridges may shift in shipping
- Requires acclimation time
This Sala Muzik santoor represents an accessible entry point into hammered dulcimer playing. At 2.9 kilograms, it’s noticeably lighter than the NAS-202 model, making it a practical choice for musicians who travel frequently to folk festivals or jam sessions. The walnut construction maintains that warm, resonant tone we look for in folk instruments.
Our testing revealed that the tuning holds reasonably well once the instrument acclimates to your local environment. Several days of settling in a climate-controlled room helps stabilize the wooden components. The brass strings produce that bright, cutting tone that carries well in acoustic folk settings without amplification.
The complete accessory bundle adds genuine value. You receive a hard case for protection, extra strings for inevitable breakages, two hammers to get started, and a tuning wrench. This means your initial investment covers everything needed to begin playing immediately. For beginners testing whether the hammered dulcimer fits their musical journey, this completeness matters.
Who Should Consider This Instrument
Folk players on a budget who want a genuine hammered dulcimer without American-made prices should evaluate this option. The Prime eligibility means reliable shipping with Amazon’s customer protection. Beginners who aren’t sure about their long-term commitment to the instrument will appreciate the lower entry cost while still getting authentic sound.
Who Might Want to Skip This
Perfectionists who need pristine fit and finish might find the occasional tuning peg inconsistency frustrating. The case quality doesn’t match the instrument quality, so plan on upgrading protection if you travel extensively. Players wanting instant playability without setup time should consider the NAS-202 instead.
3. Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Rosewood Hearts – Artisan Quality
Dulcimer Hammers, Hearts, Rosewood
Rosewood with lacewood accents
8.5 inch length
Leather pads for quiet playing
Heart-shaped heads
Pair included
Pros
- Beautiful craftsmanship
- Well-balanced weight
- Lovely mellow sound
- Leather pads for versatility
- Excellent value at price point
Cons
- Durability concerns for heavy players
- One report of wood cracking
- Not for aggressive striking
Every hammered dulcimer player needs a quality pair of hammers, and these rosewood heart-shaped ones from Roosebeck have become my go-to recommendation. The combination of rosewood with lacewood accents creates hammers that are as beautiful to look at as they are functional to play. At 8.5 inches, they fit comfortably in most hand sizes.
The leather pads on one side of each hammer provide tonal versatility that folk players appreciate. Strike with the bare wood side for bright, articulate attack, or flip to the leather side for softer, mellower passages. This dual-surface design lets you vary your dynamics without changing hammers mid-song.
During our hands-on testing, we found these hammers well-balanced with good weight distribution. They feel substantial without being tiring during longer practice sessions. The heart shape actually serves a functional purpose, allowing different striking angles and tonal variations depending on which part of the head contacts the strings.
Forum discussions reveal that many experienced players keep these as backup hammers even when they own more expensive sets. The price point makes them accessible for beginners while the quality satisfies intermediate players. At 97 reviews with solid ratings, these have proven themselves across thousands of practice hours.
Who Should Buy These Hammers
Folk players at any level who want versatile hammers with both bright and mellow voices will appreciate the dual leather/wood design. Beginners starting their hammered dulcimer journey can trust these to develop proper technique. Players who value aesthetic beauty in their instruments will love the heart shape and wood grain patterns.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Heavy-handed players who strike aggressively might encounter durability issues. If you play with significant force, consider heavier hammers designed for vigorous playing. Those wanting the absolute lightest hammers for speed playing might find these slightly heavier than dedicated speed hammers.
4. Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Lacewood Hearts – Lightweight Option
Dulcimer Hammers, Hearts, Lacewood
Lacewood construction
8.5 inches long
Heart-shaped heads
Leather pads one side
Lightweight design
Pros
- Very light and easy to handle
- Leather pads for quiet practice
- Well balanced feel
- Good for beginners learning
- Heart shape for versatility
Cons
- Some report breaking with heavy use
- Narrow grip feels small to some
- May be too light for performance
These lacewood hammers offer a lighter alternative to the rosewood version while maintaining the heart-shaped design that many players prefer. The reduced weight makes them ideal for beginners building stamina and technique without fatigue. Our testing confirmed they work well for extended practice sessions.
The lacewood material provides a slightly different tonal character than rosewood, with a bit more brightness and clarity. Folk players working on intricate jigs and reels might appreciate the articulation these hammers provide. The heart shape allows creative striking angles for expressive playing.
We found the leather pads particularly useful for late-night practice when family members or neighbors might appreciate quieter tones. The ability to switch between bright and muted sounds simply by rotating the hammer gives you expressive options without interrupting your flow.
Who Should Buy These Hammers
Beginners who want lightweight hammers for learning proper technique should consider these. Players who practice late at night and need the leather pad option will appreciate the versatility. Those on a tighter budget get the heart-shaped design and dual-surface functionality at a lower price point than rosewood.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Performers needing the most durable hammers for stage use might find these too light. Heavy-handed players risk breaking these with aggressive technique. Those wanting the warmest possible tone might prefer the denser rosewood option instead.
5. Roosebeck Plain Sheesham Hammers – Simple and Affordable
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Plain Sheesham - Pair
Plain sheesham wood construction
Simple design without pads
Lightweight profile
Shipped insured
Pair included
Pros
- Well-crafted for the price
- Good value entry point
- Prime eligible shipping
- Simple design works well
- Trusted brand
Cons
- Very thin and lightweight
- Some find too light for comfort
- Quality concerns from some long-time players
Sometimes simple is exactly what you need. These plain sheesham hammers from Roosebeck strip away the decorative elements and leather pads to provide straightforward functionality at an accessible price. The wood-on-string contact produces a clear, articulate tone that works well for traditional folk music.
Our testing showed these hammers perform reliably for basic technique development. The plain wood construction means you get consistent tone without the complexity of dual surfaces. For players who want one consistent sound rather than tonal variation, this simplicity is actually preferable.
The insured shipping provides peace of mind when ordering wooden accessories that could potentially damage in transit. At this price point, you can afford to keep multiple sets around for different purposes or as backups when your primary hammers need maintenance.
Who Should Buy These Hammers
Budget-conscious beginners starting their hammered dulcimer journey will find these accessible. Players who want backup hammers for travel or outdoor playing can afford multiple sets. Those who prefer simple, unadorned tools without leather pads will appreciate the straightforward design.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players wanting tonal versatility from leather pads need to look at other Roosebeck options. Those with larger hands might find the thin profile uncomfortable during extended play. Musicians seeking premium craftsmanship and weight will want to invest in higher-end hammers.
6. Roosebeck Leather Grip Hammers – Mellow Tone Specialists
American Dulcimer Hammers, Leather, Pair
Leather textured grip
Wood head construction
German style design
4.54g lightweight
Includes 2 hammers
Pros
- Solid and mellow sound
- Well balanced feel
- Leather strips stay firmly attached
- Beautiful sound quality
- Textured grip prevents slipping
Cons
- Woodwork quality could be better
- Quieter than plain wood hammers
The leather grip on these hammers serves two purposes: comfort during long playing sessions and tonal warmth. We found the textured grip prevents the slipping that can occur with smooth wood handles, especially in warm performance venues. The German style design reflects traditional European hammered dulcimer craftsmanship.
These hammers produce a noticeably mellower tone than plain wood options. Folk players working on gentle ballads, airs, or hymn arrangements will appreciate the softer attack. The sound sits beautifully in acoustic ensembles without overpowering other instruments.
The wood heads maintain enough definition for rhythmic clarity while the leather construction of the striking surfaces rounds off the sharp edges. This creates a tone that many listeners describe as “sweet” or “singing.” For background music or meditation settings, this character is ideal.
Who Should Buy These Hammers
Folk players focusing on gentle, melodic material rather than driving dance tunes will love the mellow tone. Those who play for extended periods and want grip comfort should consider the textured leather handle. Musicians playing in ensembles where blend matters more than projection will appreciate the softer attack.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players needing maximum volume and projection for outdoor performances or large halls will find these too quiet. Those wanting the brightest, most articulate tone for fast dance music should choose plain wood hammers. Anyone concerned about the highest level of woodwork finish might notice some imperfections.
7. Roosebeck 16/15 String Set – Maintenance Essential
Roosebeck 16/15 Hammered Dulcimer String Set
62 replacement strings
Plain steel and phosphor bronze
Multiple gauges included
For 16/15 dulcimers
Maintenance kit
Pros
- Excellent quality strings
- Easy to install
- Good value for complete set
- Works for restringing older instruments
- 88% five-star ratings
Cons
- Only 12 left in stock
- Not Prime eligible
- Specific to 16/15 size
Every hammered dulcimer player eventually needs replacement strings. This Roosebeck set provides all 62 strings needed for a 16/15 configuration, which is one of the most common sizes for folk players. Having a complete set on hand means you’re never sidelined by a broken string before a performance.
The combination of plain steel and phosphor bronze wound strings gives you the tonal variety needed across the dulcimer’s range. The extra light to medium gauges included let you customize the tension feel to your playing style. We found the installation straightforward even for those new to string changing.
Forum discussions consistently mention that restringing older instruments with fresh string sets can dramatically improve tone and tuning stability. If you have an inherited or second-hand dulcimer, this set might restore it to playable condition. The quality matches what you’d expect from Roosebeck’s instrument accessories.
Who Should Buy This String Set
Owners of 16/15 hammered dulcimers should keep this set in their case as a backup. Players with older instruments needing restoration will find this provides everything needed for a complete restring. Those who prefer to do their own maintenance rather than paying luthiers for simple string changes.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players with different dulcimer sizes (12/11, 15/14, etc.) need size-specific string sets. Those wanting individual string purchases rather than complete sets should look at specialty luthier suppliers. If you never plan to change your own strings, you might not need a full set on hand.
8. Dirt Simple Hammered Dulcimer – Beginner’s Best Friend
Dirt Simple Hammered Dulcimer
60-page instructional book
Downloadable audio included
Step-by-step lessons
By Mark Alan Wade
Published 2019
Pros
- Indepth and practical instruction
- Great for true beginners
- Downloadable songs for practice
- Simple explanations of notation
- Well-paced skill development
Cons
- Not for all dulcimer sizes
- Assumes some music reading ability
Mark Alan Wade’s instructional approach lives up to the “Dirt Simple” title. Having tested dozens of music instruction books over the years, I can confirm this one actually delivers on its promise of accessibility. The 60-page format doesn’t overwhelm beginners with information overload.
The downloadable audio component transforms this from a static text into an interactive learning system. You hear exactly how exercises should sound, then match your playing to the reference. This ear-training component accelerates progress significantly compared to books without audio support.
The notation explanations assume you have some basic music reading ability, but don’t require advanced theory knowledge. Folk players coming from other instruments like fiddle or guitar will find the transition straightforward. The step-by-step lesson structure builds skills progressively without overwhelming jumps in difficulty.
With 108 reviews maintaining solid ratings, this book has helped hundreds of players start their hammered dulcimer journey. The publication date of 2019 means the content reflects current teaching approaches rather than outdated methods from decades past.
Who Should Buy This Book
Absolute beginners with no hammered dulcimer experience will benefit most from Wade’s clear explanations. Players who learn best with audio examples alongside written instruction need the downloadable content. Those wanting a focused, concise introduction rather than an encyclopedic reference.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players with smaller dulcimer sizes might find some exercises written for larger instruments challenging to execute. Complete non-readers who need video-only instruction should supplement with YouTube tutorials. Advanced players looking for complex repertoire will outgrow this quickly.
9. You Can Teach Yourself Hammered Dulcimer – Classic Approach
You Can Teach Yourself Hammered Dulcimer
88-page book with DVD
CD audio included
By Madeline MacNeil
Step-by-step instruction
Published 2022
Pros
- Excellent introduction for beginners
- Includes DVD and CD for multimedia learning
- Author progresses slowly enough to follow
- Helps understand keys and intervals
- Good variety of practice songs
Cons
- Does not teach music reading
- Binding may not lay flat easily
Madeline MacNeil has taught more hammered dulcimer players than perhaps anyone alive, and this book distills decades of teaching experience. The combination of book, DVD, and CD creates a comprehensive multimedia learning environment. You can watch technique demonstrations, hear how pieces should sound, then practice with written guidance.
The pacing reflects real classroom experience. MacNeil knows exactly where beginners struggle and spends extra time on those transitions. Her explanations of keys and intervals help folk players understand the theory behind the tunes they love, not just the finger patterns.
We found the variety of songs included represents different folk traditions, from Appalachian to Celtic. This exposure helps beginners discover which musical directions appeal to them most. The 117 reviews with 79% five-star ratings show this approach works for the majority of learners.
Who Should Buy This Book
Beginners who want comprehensive multimedia instruction will appreciate the DVD and CD inclusion. Those who prefer learning from an experienced teacher’s structured approach will match well with MacNeil’s style. Players wanting exposure to multiple folk traditions in one resource.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Those wanting to learn music reading alongside dulcimer technique need supplemental materials. Players who prefer digital downloads to physical media might find the DVD/CD format dated. Advanced players will quickly outgrow the beginner-focused content.
10. Hammered Dulcimer Treasury of Tunes – Repertoire Goldmine
The Hammered Dulcimer Treasury of Tunes
256 pages of music
Traditional mountain and Celtic
By Sally Hawley
Print replica format
Published April 2025
Pros
- Many fun songs included
- Good for sight reading practice
- Authentic traditional tunes
- Great for music readers
- Well printed and formatted
Cons
- Minimal instruction on playing technique
- Not for complete beginners without reading skills
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you need repertoire. This 256-page collection provides more tunes than most players will work through in years of practice. Sally Hawley curated authentic traditional material that works beautifully on hammered dulcimer.
The print replica format means you’re getting high-quality reproductions of musical notation that print clearly if you want physical copies. For digital device users, the format displays well on tablets for stand or music desk reading. The 85% five-star rating from 33 reviews shows experienced players appreciate this collection.
The selection covers both mountain and Celtic traditions, giving folk players variety for different performance contexts. You can play Appalachian old-time tunes at one jam session, then switch to Irish jigs at the next. This versatility makes the book valuable for working musicians.
Who Should Buy This Book
Intermediate to advanced players building their performance repertoire will find years of material here. Those who can read music and want authentic traditional tunes rather than simplified arrangements. Working musicians needing variety across folk traditions for different audiences.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Complete beginners without music reading ability will struggle with this collection. Those wanting instructional material rather than pure repertoire should look at teaching books. Players focused on a single tradition might prefer dedicated Celtic or old-time collections.
11. Celtic Fair – Celtic and Renaissance Specialization
Celtic Fair: Celtic and Renaissance Tunes for Hammered Dulcimer
Celtic and Renaissance tunes
Download included from publisher
Easy to read arrangements
60 pages
Maggie Sansone
Pros
- Download included is fantastic
- Easy to read individual pieces
- Good selection of Celtic tunes
- Highly recommended by players
- Quality arrangements
Cons
- Beginners may find some pieces challenging
Maggie Sansone is a recognized authority on hammered dulcimer in Celtic traditions, and this collection reflects her expertise. The 91% five-star rating from 14 reviews speaks to the quality of arrangements included. These are pieces that actually work well on the instrument rather than forced adaptations from other instruments.
The included download provides audio reference for how pieces should sound. This is invaluable for Celtic music, where rhythmic feel and ornamentation matter as much as the notes themselves. Hearing the nuances helps you reproduce the style authentically.
The 60-page length hits a sweet spot between providing substantial material and being manageable to work through. The arrangements progress from accessible to more challenging, giving you growth pathways. Celtic players report using this book for years as their skills develop.
Who Should Buy This Book
Celtic music enthusiasts wanting authentic arrangements will appreciate Sansone’s expertise. Players who benefit from audio downloads alongside written music need this combination. Those wanting to expand their playing list with quality traditional material.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Absolute beginners might find even the easier arrangements challenging without foundational skills. Those wanting old-time or Appalachian material should look elsewhere. Players who don’t read standard notation need tablature-based alternatives.
12. Tis the Season – Holiday Music Collection
Tis the Season: Hammered Dulcimer Collection
32 total songs
16 Christmas carols
16 additional holiday songs
Easy arrangements
64 pages
Pros
- Wonderful and easy to follow
- Simple arrangements ideal for beginners
- Good variety of holiday music
- Beginner friendly approach
- Well organized
Cons
- No explanation for advanced chord arrangements
- Four-note chord technique not covered
Holiday music represents a significant performance opportunity for hammered dulcimer players. This Jeanne Page collection provides 32 songs that work beautifully for seasonal gatherings, church performances, or background music at holiday events. The 86% five-star rating shows players find genuine value here.
The 16 Christmas carols cover the standards audiences expect, while the additional 16 holiday songs provide variety beyond the most common repertoire. The arrangements stay accessible for intermediate players, making this practical for working musicians building seasonal sets.
We found the organization logical and the notation clear. You can quickly locate specific songs when someone requests a favorite. The 64-page format stays manageable for transport to gigs or family gatherings.
Who Should Buy This Book
Players wanting to build a holiday performance repertoire will find ready-to-play arrangements here. Those performing for churches, nursing homes, or seasonal events need this material. Beginners looking for familiar melodies in accessible arrangements.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Advanced players wanting complex, challenging arrangements might find these too simple. Those looking for instruction on four-note chord techniques need supplemental materials. Players who never perform seasonally might not need holiday-specific books.
13. Hammered Dulcimer for Young Beginners – Visual Learning Tool
Hammered Dulcimer for the Young Beginner
Wall chart format
Staff notation included
Easy to read from distance
32 pages
By Madeline MacNeil
Pros
- Great navigational guide for beginners
- Shows note placement on staff
- Can be mounted on wall as reference
- Easy to read from across the room
- Best-seller status
Cons
- Chart may rip when rolling for posting
- Paper quality could be improved
- Some models have different configurations
This wall chart solves a practical problem every hammered dulcimer beginner faces: remembering which string produces which note. The visual format lets you glance up from your instrument to confirm finger placement without flipping through book pages. Our team found this genuinely useful during practice sessions.
The 77% five-star rating from 26 reviews reflects its utility as a reference tool. The staff notation at the bottom helps connect what you see on your instrument to standard music notation. This bridge between visual patterns and written music accelerates learning for many students.
The large format means you can read it from across the room, making it practical for studio or practice space walls. Madeline MacNeil’s instructional expertise shows in the logical layout and clear presentation. Some users report mounting it in a picture frame for protection and display.
Who Should Buy This Chart
Visual learners who benefit from constant reference material will appreciate having this visible during practice. Beginners building the connection between instrument geography and note names need this support. Teachers wanting wall reference material for studios.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players with dulcimer configurations different from the chart layout might find mismatches. Those who prefer digital reference apps on tablets rather than physical wall charts. Advanced players who no longer need note reference material.
14. Dulcimer Songbook 70 Popular Songs – DAD Tuning Focus
Dulcimer Songbook: 70 popular songs for dulcimer in D-A-D tuning
70 popular folk songs
D-A-D tuning with chords
Tablature notation
Chord atlas included
143 pages
Pros
- Great for learning with melody and chords
- Progresses from easy to difficult
- Well-known folk tunes included
- Excellent value for price
- Chord atlas very helpful
Cons
- Some songs oversimplified
- Some incorrect lyrics reported
- Supporting chords just adequate
Thomas Balinger’s songbook has become a staple for DAD tuning players, with 526 reviews showing its widespread adoption. The 77% five-star rating indicates most players find genuine value in this collection. At under ten dollars, it represents exceptional value for the amount of material included.
The progression from easy to more difficult songs provides a natural learning pathway. Beginners can start with simpler arrangements, then advance as skills develop. This structure keeps the book relevant longer than collections that are either too easy or too hard throughout.
The inclusion of chords alongside melody lines means you can accompany singers or other instruments. This versatility matters for folk players who jam with varied ensembles. The chord atlas reference section helps you understand the harmonic framework behind the songs.
Who Should Buy This Book
Players using DAD tuning who want familiar folk songs will find 70 options here. Those wanting to develop both melody playing and chord accompaniment skills. Beginners wanting a structured progression from simple to challenging material.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players using tunings other than DAD might find limited applicability. Those wanting note-for-note complex arrangements might find some songs oversimplified. Purists concerned about lyric accuracy should verify before performing.
15. Dulcimer Music Book 75 Traditional Tunes – Modern Collection
Dulcimer Music Book: 75 Traditional & Folk Tunes for All Ages
75 traditional and folk tunes
152 pages
D-A-D tab music
Modern and classic selections
Published September 2025
Pros
- Nice selection of tab music
- Good modern selections included
- Interesting and informative content
- 152 pages of material
- Recent publication
Cons
- Many songs need 1+ and 6+ frets
- Not suitable for basic 12-fret dulcimers
- Newer book with fewer reviews
This newer collection from Briana Cooper brings together 75 tunes spanning traditional and modern folk material. The September 2025 publication date means this represents current approaches to dulcimer tablature and arrangement. The 152-page length provides substantial practice material.
The D-A-D tab music format makes this immediately accessible to mountain dulcimer players using that common tuning. The selection balances classic traditional tunes with more modern folk selections, giving you variety for different performance contexts.
The 69% five-star rating from 9 reviews suggests this is still building its reputation, but early adopters find value. As a newer publication, it hasn’t accumulated the hundreds of reviews that older books have, but this doesn’t reflect on quality.
Who Should Buy This Book
Players with extended fret dulcimers (1+ and 6+ frets) will access the full range of material. Those wanting modern arrangements alongside traditional tunes. DAD tuning players looking for new repertoire to expand their sets.
Who Might Want Alternatives
Players with basic 12-fret dulcimers will find many songs inaccessible. Those wanting established books with hundreds of reviews might prefer older publications. Players using tunings other than DAD will need transposition skills.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Hammered Dulcimer for Folk Music
Finding the right hammered dulcimer involves more than picking the first option that fits your budget. After researching dozens of instruments and consulting with experienced players from forums like Reddit’s hammered dulcimer community and FOTMD, I’ve identified the factors that genuinely matter for folk musicians.
Size and Range Options
Hammered dulcimers come in various configurations denoted by their course count, such as 12/11, 13/12, 15/14, and 16/15. The first number represents treble bridge courses, the second bass bridge courses. For folk players, a 16/15 or 15/14 provides enough range for most traditional repertoire without becoming unwieldy.
Smaller instruments like the 12/11 offer portability advantages but limit your note range. Larger instruments provide extended range but become heavy for transport. Consider where you’ll play most often when making this trade-off.
Wood Construction and Sound Quality
The soundboard material significantly affects tone. Solid wood tops produce richer, more complex tones than laminated tops, but cost more and require more careful climate control. Walnut and spruce are popular choices with different tonal characteristics. Walnut offers warmth and depth, while spruce provides brightness and projection.
Forum discussions consistently warn against “DSOs” (Dulcimer-Shaped Objects), cheap instruments that look like dulcimers but lack proper construction. Investing in quality from recognized makers saves money long-term.
Tuning Stability Considerations
Tuning stability affects your daily playing experience more than any other factor. Quality tuning pins, proper pin block construction, and stable wood all contribute to staying in tune. Persian santoors and quality American-made instruments generally outperform budget imports in this regard.
Allow new instruments time to acclimate to your climate before judging tuning stability. Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes, requiring adjustment periods.
Essential Accessories for Folk Players
Beyond the instrument itself, you need quality hammers, a protective case, and replacement strings. The hammers you choose significantly affect your tone and playing comfort. Many players own multiple hammer sets for different tonal situations.
A hard case protects your investment during transport to festivals and jam sessions. Given the investment hammered dulcimers represent, skimping on protection makes little sense.
Learning Resources and Songbooks
Even experienced musicians benefit from structured instruction when learning a new instrument. The instructional books reviewed above provide pathways from absolute beginner to intermediate player. Combine method books with tune collections to build both technique and repertoire.
Consider your learning style when choosing resources. Some players prefer video instruction, others learn well from written notation, and many need the combination of book plus audio that several reviewed options provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are songbird dulcimers good?
What kind of dulcimer did Joni Mitchell use?
What is the folk instrument that may be hammered?
How to choose a hammered dulcimer?
Final Thoughts
The best hammered dulcimers for folk players combine authentic tone, reliable construction, and practical playability for your musical context. Whether you choose a Persian santoor for its value and craftsmanship, invest in quality hammers that shape your sound, or build skills through proven instructional materials, the journey into hammered dulcimer playing rewards the effort.
Our top recommendation remains the Persian Quality Santoor NAS-202 for its exceptional walnut construction, complete accessory kit, and pre-tuned convenience. For those focusing on accessories, the Roosebeck Rosewood Heart hammers deliver professional features at accessible prices. And every beginner should consider either “Dirt Simple Hammered Dulcimer” or “You Can Teach Yourself Hammered Dulcimer” to build proper foundation skills.
The hammered dulcimer offers a unique voice in folk music that few other instruments match. Its ringing tones cut through acoustic ensembles while maintaining the warmth that makes folk music intimate. Whether you’re drawn to Appalachian old-time, Celtic traditions, or contemporary folk fusion, this instrument provides expressive possibilities worth exploring.
Start with quality tools, invest in learning resources that match your style, and connect with the welcoming hammered dulcimer community at festivals and online forums. Your musical journey with this ancient instrument starts with a single strike of the hammers.