Here you can find information about the dulcimers I build and upcoming performances and workshops. I also blog about my musical, creative, and random interests that you might find interesting. Your comments are always welcome.
I play dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, clawhammer banjo, pennywhistle, Jew’s harp, and harmonium. I play and sing both traditional and original music.
Dulcimers:
As both a musician and instrument maker I make dulcimers that meet my own demanding requirements as a player.
I strive to combine the elements of traditional dulcimer making with the techniques of modern lutherie to make a beautiful, responsive instrument that is a pleasure to play
You can learn more about my dulcimers on my “Dulcimers” page
Recordings:
I currently have two albums available as CDs or MP3 downloads. You can hear samples and purchase them by clicking the album covers below.
A Brief Musical Bio:
I have been performing and teaching since the mid 1970′s. During the 1980′s I toured throughout the United States and performed at many folk festivals, dulcimer festivals and concert venues. I recorded two records (Yes, records, the big round flat black vinyl things) for Kicking Mule Records.
In 1983 I took first place in both the National Hammered Dulcimer Championship and the National Mountain Dulcimer Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
In the early 1990′s I recorded two cassettes (more antiquated technology, is there a theme here?) with one featuring a tune I composed on hammered dulcimer called “Ocean of Wisdom” that has been recorded by several other well known hammered dulcimer players. My work appears on dozens of albums and soundtracks as a support musician.
I performed, recorded and toured with the Celtic ensemble Colcannon for 10 years. I taught at The Swallow Hill School of Music in Denver, Colorado for 10 years.
I made dulcimers and other instruments during the 1970′ and 80′s. I had stopped making instruments so that I could focus primarily on performing and teaching but I always missed lutherie. I am happy to be making instruments again.
I took a long break from performing and making instruments full time. During this time I was pursuing other interests. I also worked at Elderly Instruments in Lansing, Michigan for about 12 years.
Musically I am inspired by the traditional music of the world, the rock and roll I grew up with and anything else that comes along
