Elaine Conger

The bass dulcimer is a magnificent addition to the mountain dulcimer family, adding a needed foundation and tonal warmth to standard dulcimer groups and music jams. Perhaps you’ve been intrigued by its sound but haven’t quite figured out how to use it to its full potential. Although the bass dulcimer has engaging qualities as a solo instrument, this class will focus on "being the bass player" for your group, particularly on mimicking the techniques of upright or electric bass players.

This three-session class (Oct 11, 18 & 25) will focus on mastering the alternating bass line, a staple of the traditional mountain dulcimer repertoire. You'll become proficient in the key of D, but will be exposed to several other keys that the dulcimer is capable of playing in. A bass dulcimer with 1+ fret is a prerequisite.

We will use my bass dulcimer book, "It's All About the Bass Dulcimer," in class, though I will provide sample pages. If you'd like a copy, it can be purchased on the Folkcraft website:
https://folkcraft.com/collections/sheet-music-tab-books-and-tablature/products/elaine-conger-its-all-about-the-bass-dulcimer

After you register, your email receipt will contain the Zoom link, which will be the same for all three sessions. Each class will run 75-90 minutes. If you have scheduling conflicts, know that each session will be recorded.

My answer to Larry’s popular self-penned September on the Mississippi! This original chord melody style tune will give you another pretty ballad to add to your repertoire while also giving you a means to review and reinforce chord shapes and hone your skills at “maintaining your sustain.” Since it’s unfamiliar, tab reading skills will be challenged, but participants will also receive an audio file of the tune. Video available for those who can’t attend.

You may have learned the solo part at QDF Fall Fest, but now you can play it as a trio for two standards and bass!