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![spacer4.gif](images/spacer4.gif) |
his
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.
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![Appalachian Dulcimer - CMC 74-244/S95-09805/CD95-489](images/opus539.jpg)
Appalachian Dulcimer
By
Thomas Dorward
Halifax, Nova Scotia
1974
Walnut, rosewood
Overall length by width: 92 x 15.2 cm; sides: 6 cm
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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
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![Banjo - CMC 74-236/S95-09337/CD95-485](images/opus537.jpg)
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."
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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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