Symbolism
Opus 78
Appalachian Dulcimer

 
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  • Opus 78
  • Opus 80
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  • Opus 86
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  • Opus 88
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      Symbolism of
    Materials
      Symbolism of
    Sounds
      Instruments
    Originating
    Outside
    North America
     
     
      The Publication
      The Author
     
      Preface
      Introduction
      Making Musical Instruments
      History
      Aesthetics
      Symbolism
      Conclusion
      Bibliography
     
      Index
      Instrument Makers
      Instruments
      Video Excerpts
      Audio Excerpts
     
      Other Web Sites
      Credits
     
     
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    This dulcimer has a beautiful hourglass-shaped soundbox similar to that of instruments from northwestern Europe, particularly the épinette des Vosges. It is derived from the zithers that European immigrants brought to the United States in the eighteenth century. While the instrument is found throughout the United States and Canada, little is known about its North American origins. The Appalachian dulcimer is used to accompany singing and in combination with the concertina and hurdy-gurdy to accompany dancing.

      Appalachian Dulcimer - CMC 74-244/S95-09805/CD95-489
    Appalachian Dulcimer
    By Thomas Dorward
    Halifax, Nova Scotia
    1974
    Walnut, rosewood
    Overall length by width:
    92 x 15.2 cm; sides: 6 cm

    Traditional heart-shaped motifs embellish the soundboard of these walnut dulcimers with rosewood peg boxes, and a simple scroll graces the head. Each instrument has three strings.

    Opus 80 - Banjo

      Banjo - CMC 74-236/S95-09337/CD95-485
    Banjo
    By Oskar Graf
    Clarendon, Ontario
    1974
    Black cherry, ebony, metal, plastic
    Overall length: 91 cm;
    diameter of body: 25 cm;
    sides: 5 cm
    Ink marking: "Made by Oskar Graf 3/74 Clarendon, Ont."

    Based on the traditional banjo, this instrument consists of a circular wooden soundboard with a membrane stretched over a metal ring in the middle. The neck has no frets, and the head is outfitted with four pegs. A fifth peg is located on the side of the neck to attach a fifth string, which is shorter than the others and is used to play the melody.

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