About
The dulcimer is growing in recognition and popularity and there are very few professionals who specialize in these folk instruments ... both hammer dulcimer and the lap dulcimer. I am a Texas state champion and SE Regional champion and my students Have also competed and won at state, regional and national levels. I rent and sell dulcimers.
i am a music major and taught band and choir and elementary music. I’ve been playin the dulcimer since 1990. I've been on the roster of performers on Young Audiences and on The Texas Commission For The Arts and I've been a presenter at the state Music Educators Conventions In Texas and in Florida.
I enjoy helping aspiring musicians discover the joy of learning to make music on the Mountain Dulcimer and the Hammer Dulcimer. Many of my students have become lifetime friends. My playing has allowed me to travel to places I'd never been before and meet dulcimer players from all around the globe.
Specialties
Musical styles
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Donna W.
Fran M.
Eric W.
John W.
Jim E.
Sally M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Each student is different and has different goals. First I ask where the student wants to go... play for church, nursing homes, or just for self, family and friends, or even to compete, enter a career in music, and even to become a professional.
I believe that everyone who plays an instrument should learn as much as they can about theory and technique, but this is taught by playing tunes and not by playing only endless exercises, although we will do some of that. I seek to discover each student's own learning style and I teach to their needs.
I don't use a one-size-fits-all approach but try to help each one discover music at their own pace. It should always be fun. I encourage "playing" at home (rather than "practicing".
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in music and taught public school music for 30 years. I have studied the dulcimer from many excellent performers, but as an advanced player I've learned that there is always something else I can learn.
ive won competitions on Mt dulcimer and hammer dulcimer and have students who also have competed and won on local, state-wide, regional and national competitions on both Mt dulcimer and hammer dulcimer.
ive written music that has been published by several different publishers.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$25 per half hour. Students can purchase methods and tune books as well as CDs and instruments.
i have instruments to rent for those who want to try before they buy.
How did you get started teaching?
Teaching is part of learning. I started teaching piano to my sister and friends when I was still in school. I majored in music and became a teacher so when I started playing the dulcimer it seemed natural to teach others to play .
What types of students have you worked with?
Most of my students are adults who have "always wanted to learn to play an instrument" I've also taught kids and a lot of home schoolers who are taking music lessons for school credit. I've had several students who needed the experience for physical therapy since music is great for concentration, focus and eye-hand coordination.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I always love going to concerts and singing or playing in a group. Most recently I'm fascinated by the ability to stay home and connect over zoom, or FaceTime or Google Duo.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher that tries to understand your own learning style rather than insisting that you understand his/her teaching style. The teacher should be able to demonstrate effectively but should spend most of the time that you're paying for by listening and guiding.