The word dulcimer can be defined as a sounding board that makes sweet melodies.

The instrument name was first used in written English in the 15th century, but the word comes from Latin “dulce melos” and Old French “doulcemer,” meaning “sweet music.”

Many types of sounding boards were developed all over the ancient world, and they strike a sweet chord in the human heart.

Two types of dulcimers became popular in the United States for spreading gospel music in 19th century rural America during the “Great Religious Awakening.” A long, thin lap dulcimer had only three or four strings. On the other hand, a trapezoidal hammer dulcimer was about a yard wide at the base and may have had two or three bridges with totals of 30 to 120 strings.

Both types of dulcimers were part of Appalachian culture, but the lap dulcimers were easier to make and less expensive.

The Augusta Heritage Festival focused attention on talented local dulcimer players near Elkins in the 1970s. Now-retired teacher Luanna Moore is keeping the tradition of playing dulcimers alive by giving lessons at the Randolph County Senior Center. Her love of sweet music making inspired me to try playing the hammer dulcimer. Although I do not find enough time to practice as much as I would like, it gives me much joy and peace of mind when I can play familiar tunes.

Jeanne Johnson is another retired teacher who has helped make dulcimer playing possible in public schools. When she was tutoring for Kump Education Center as an AmeriCorps member, she applied for a Snowshoe grant that provided 12 lap dulcimers made with a cardboard box. These “boximers” are still available at Kump Center, and Jeanne is going to work with Luanna to make them sing again with fourth- and fifth-grade students this Christmas season.

This Thanksgiving, I am so thankful for both types of sweet music makers. The beautiful ancient instruments could not make melodies come to life and go forward to the next generation without caring human teachers who pass along the traditions of making music in these mountains.