Folkcraft: How long have you been playing the dulcimer?Bill: I've been exposed to the mountain dulcimer since 1973, but have only been playing regularly since 2017. The teardrop dulcimer in the picture is a spruce and mahogany instrument that I built from scratch in 1973. The only thing I knew about the dulcimer back then was the information from Jean Ritchie's book and instructional record album. I learned a few simple tunes and then the dulcimer became an attractive wall hanging. I attended a few festivals with my wife and became interested again, so I built a dulcimer from a kit and started to learn to play. Then I met Richard at the Black Mountain Music Festival and played some of his wonderful Folkcraft instruments.
Folkcraft: When did you get your first Folkcraft dulcimer?
Bill: I ordered my first Folkcraft shortly after returning home from the 2018 Black Mountain festival. The dulcimer I'm holding is my gorgeous butternut and walnut Folkcraft dulcimer. It has the Hearts & Vines design for the sound holes and a 25" VSL.
Folkcraft: Where do you enjoy playing your dulcimer?
Bill: I have a room at home where I do most of my practicing and in good weather, I enjoy playing on the porch in the photo. My wife and I have performed in church and also teach a few church members. We belong to Dutchland Dulcimers in Lancaster, PA and really enjoy getting together with them. We have also entertained a few times at a local assisted living facility.
Folkcraft: What other hobbies, or interests, do you have besides playing the dulcimer?
Bill: I'm trying to learn to play ukulele. I also love woodworking, golf and pickleball.
