It's always a good day when I see a new dulcimer diary pop up on my RUclips feed. They seem to be exactly what a diary should be: thoughts. feelings, trials and possibilities. I always seem to come away with some thought to apply to my life and dulcimer playing. Thank you.
I love the realness and honesty. Its more of a hang out then a big production. I also think your advice works on all levels of musicianship and instruments. Not just dulcimer. No matter what instrument thats in your hand. Its behind the scenes of a real musician and I dont think theres a lot of that honesty on youtube. Just beginner stuff and scales. Sometimes the playing starts withen before you even pluck a note. Thank You
I’ve been watching these Dulcimer diaries since you started them. As a friend, I really enjoy them. It’s like sitting at my kitchen table and just having the kind of chats that we might have when we are together. I also just love the content because it’s just stuff you are thinking about, and it stimulates my own thinking about the instrument. I have honestly benefited from these diary chats a great deal and I appreciate it. As a guy who is 77 years old, I find that my playing is getting better and I attribute some of that to just trying ideas that you share here. Keep it up Steve! This is good stuff.
I’m a beginner, signed up for your MountainDulcimerAtoZ and everything (just started Day 4 after 2 months). I absolutely love your Dulcimer Diaries series. I don’t think that just because I’m new to the dulcimer doesn’t mean I don’t get anything out of it. For example, when you talked once about playing quietly sometimes - that stuck with me. Also, when you talked about just playing around with the dulcimer while watching tv or something - well, I’ve been doing that all along - but I was good to hear someone else say that is a good thing. I know I have gotten to understand my instruments much better just by doing that. So I’d say that these diaries have something for all levels! Not every video out there will be good for everyone. There are plenty of other videos out there for those who want shorter form videos. I like these because they feel conversational. I just wish sometimes it could be a two-way conversation!
I really appreciate your video diaries. Please don’t stop them! I feel like I’m in a kitchen talking about the dulcimer with someone. I don’t have that, personally. Thanks for all you do.
Well you know, during the time of Corona, people who belong to the vulnerable group like me and my wife, had to stay at home and your Zoom-online lessons just opened up a door to the world for us. We as Dulcimer players should stand together, because the freedom of music and the freedom of speech is our most important right in this world.
"Back in the day" when I turned my degree in music theory and composition into a foundation for mainframe computer programming at the phone company (everyone at home was hungry!!) I found that all the training offered never covered what I called "programmer lore" - that crucial information that you learned when the proverbial stars aligned - the right person in the right room asking the right question etc. If you didn't happen to be around, then you missed it. The info might show up later in another context, but, in general, there was just so much that was needed to flesh out the real world of computer programming that couldn't be covered in class. I guess it's called "experience". Thus for these diaries, Stephen. I find them to be dulcimer player/musician lore that I'm not going to get anywhere else. You're providing it. So, as some say, "I should know what he's forgotten" and, maybe someday, I just might. Ever onward!!! Be yourself, it's more than enough.
Always love to see your dairies..especially enjoyed this one today...I think we all love your faces..lets me know you are really into your groove..and also the head bobbin ! ...Keep being you ...we all love ya !
I love these. Side note… you aren’t just different on camera. We all wear an exterior and that exterior can change from one person to another. I don’t act the same way with my friends that I do with my wife. We have cues, body language, inflection, eye contact. You are one of the best at bringing a human element to a conversation with a lens… Don’t judge yourself, and don’t let 3rd grade man Yuk your yum. 😊
I always look forward to these diaries! 🙂 I agree that performing is weird. I’ve done it for a long time, and it’s just such an odd (yet enjoyable) thing. I do a bit of “gig face”, too. I like real gig face - it just means you’re really into it. I always think that if we play for ourselves first, then the music comes across to the listener in a more genuine way.
I just ran into some ladies who are in a dulcimer club. They suggested I check out your channel and books. I am grateful I bumped into them, and they told me about you. You are easy to listen to. I will tell anyone who'll listen hah
May just me but I recently was at the Ozark Folk Center listening to Jeff play tunes clawhammer style on his 5 sting and it stuck me as being close to the dulcimer. Yea I am crazy too but there seem to be a similiar strum for lack of better term. I just bring this up because you mentioned clawhammer. Oh and I picked up a new McSpadden Baritone with a redwood top. Reminds me of an organ a bit. So rich. Thanks for your diarys and don't worry about your friend.
After listening to “Holy,Holy, Holy,” and hearing more complicated chords as you progressed, I was reminded of Maddie McNeil’s arrangement of “Planxty Fanny Power.” Every beat of that tune is a different chord or chordal variation. I can see that tune starting out with a simple melody and progressing gradually until it morphs into Maddie’s original arrangement or something similar.
I just found this. Liked and subscribed! I really enjoyed this. I've been very discouraged learning dulcimer and you've given me something to think about!
Excellent playing sir! And I can relate to your comments for sure. Good advice too... if I may ask, what was the song you were playing at the beginning? It's been driving me crazy trying to place it.
Re- RUclips algorithm - no idea how that thing works. But I know I’m tired of the grind of it and just want to play - for me! Don’t worry about what you put out, do it for you. People want tab, UGH 😢 I think I’m a worse musician after having to write and play it back as tabbed. That is not how I play, it’s by feel and ear. Don’t stop the faces, it’s just natural. I often purse my lips together, people want to think something about it, so what. People are mad at me for playing too much dulcimer, not enough banjo, too many hymns, the list goes on. You are a weirdo and that’s quite ok. I aspire to be half as weird dude!
Thanks, Mandy, re the tab remark. I am new and come to dulcimer with the luxury of an unused degree in music theory and composition (1975 !! ), so, when I look at the photos and videos of programs where people are taking dulcimer workshops I look to see if there is sheet music up everywhere - and, if so, then it's something I'll avoid. Suggestion (since you didn't ask for one - hah!!), maybe a video that actually encourages people to free themselves from the tab? How do they get to that point? I know you have produced so many wonderful free lessons and there are more in your membership platform, so maybe you have done one already . . . just a thought . . . and perhaps you don't need to hear one more thing to do right now. Please know you are valued and thanked for sharing your experience. I have bought you a cup of coffee, BTW !!!
@@AnneSTLMO Awwww thank you so much, that’s very sweet. Yes I have done some of those and will do a bunch more! I’ve got 2 good by ear lessons but want to do many of them. I’ve fallen into the trap of what pays the bills so to speak. But my future will change, I’m tired of chasing things. I play simply but it makes me happy and it’s by ear. Thanks so much for your encouragement!! Stephen- apologies for hijacking this thread. Blessings Anne 🙏 Oh and- Anne look for a video on this very topic soon. I’m on vacation right now but will be back soon!
Please don’t stop making these videos….every single one inspires men to keep playing!
It's always a good day when I see a new dulcimer diary pop up on my RUclips feed. They seem to be exactly what a diary should be: thoughts. feelings, trials and possibilities. I always seem to come away with some thought to apply to my life and dulcimer playing. Thank you.
Thoughts, feelings, trials, and possibilities. I like that. Thank you.
I love the realness and honesty. Its more of a hang out then a big production. I also think your advice works on all levels of musicianship and instruments. Not just dulcimer. No matter what instrument thats in your hand. Its behind the scenes of a real musician and I dont think theres a lot of that honesty on youtube. Just beginner stuff and scales. Sometimes the playing starts withen before you even pluck a note. Thank You
I’ve been watching these Dulcimer diaries since you started them. As a friend, I really enjoy them. It’s like sitting at my kitchen table and just having the kind of chats that we might have when we are together. I also just love the content because it’s just stuff you are thinking about, and it stimulates my own thinking about the instrument. I have honestly benefited from these diary chats a great deal and I appreciate it. As a guy who is 77 years old, I find that my playing is getting better and I attribute some of that to just trying ideas that you share here. Keep it up Steve! This is good stuff.
Thank you, Brother. I wish I was at your kitchen table right now!
Well, look what popped up on my phone at 5 a m.!
Stephen, I love how genuine and spontaneous you are with your dulcimer diaries. It's a privilege to accompany you on your journey.
I love how genuine you are in these Diaries. Real. Spontaneous. Relatable.
I like your style…..it’s all good.
I’m a beginner, signed up for your MountainDulcimerAtoZ and everything (just started Day 4 after 2 months). I absolutely love your Dulcimer Diaries series. I don’t think that just because I’m new to the dulcimer doesn’t mean I don’t get anything out of it. For example, when you talked once about playing quietly sometimes - that stuck with me. Also, when you talked about just playing around with the dulcimer while watching tv or something - well, I’ve been doing that all along - but I was good to hear someone else say that is a good thing. I know I have gotten to understand my instruments much better just by doing that. So I’d say that these diaries have something for all levels!
Not every video out there will be good for everyone. There are plenty of other videos out there for those who want shorter form videos. I like these because they feel conversational. I just wish sometimes it could be a two-way conversation!
I really appreciate your video diaries. Please don’t stop them! I feel like I’m in a kitchen talking about the dulcimer with someone. I don’t have that, personally. Thanks for all you do.
Some of the best Dulcimer playing I have seen
I enjoy your diary posts. These are so helpful to me. They help me deepen my appreciation for the craft of making music.
You're one-of-a-kind Stephen. Keep it up!
Awesome sound
I so enjoy these videos... and that was such a lovely tune.. and had fun learning that chicken tune..
Well you know, during the time of Corona, people who belong to the vulnerable group like me and my wife, had to stay at home and your Zoom-online lessons just opened up a door to the world for us. We as Dulcimer players should stand together, because the freedom of music and the freedom of speech is our most important right in this world.
"Back in the day" when I turned my degree in music theory and composition into a foundation for mainframe computer programming at the phone company (everyone at home was hungry!!) I found that all the training offered never covered what I called "programmer lore" - that crucial information that you learned when the proverbial stars aligned - the right person in the right room asking the right question etc. If you didn't happen to be around, then you missed it. The info might show up later in another context, but, in general, there was just so much that was needed to flesh out the real world of computer programming that couldn't be covered in class. I guess it's called "experience". Thus for these diaries, Stephen. I find them to be dulcimer player/musician lore that I'm not going to get anywhere else. You're providing it. So, as some say, "I should know what he's forgotten" and, maybe someday, I just might. Ever onward!!! Be yourself, it's more than enough.
Always love to see your dairies..especially enjoyed this one today...I think we all love your faces..lets me know you are really into your groove..and also the head bobbin ! ...Keep being you ...we all love ya !
Keep on brother! Love these things!! Needed every word of this one today. You are a true gift to the dulcimer world. Isaiah 38:20
I love these.
Side note… you aren’t just different on camera. We all wear an exterior and that exterior can change from one person to another.
I don’t act the same way with my friends that I do with my wife.
We have cues, body language, inflection, eye contact.
You are one of the best at bringing a human element to a conversation with a lens…
Don’t judge yourself, and don’t let 3rd grade man Yuk your yum. 😊
I always look forward to these diaries! 🙂 I agree that performing is weird. I’ve done it for a long time, and it’s just such an odd (yet enjoyable) thing. I do a bit of “gig face”, too. I like real gig face - it just means you’re really into it. I always think that if we play for ourselves first, then the music comes across to the listener in a more genuine way.
I just ran into some ladies who are in a dulcimer club. They suggested I check out your channel and books.
I am grateful I bumped into them, and they told me about you.
You are easy to listen to.
I will tell anyone who'll listen hah
I think you're great and your videos are awesome.
May just me but I recently was at the Ozark Folk Center listening to Jeff play tunes clawhammer style on his 5 sting and it stuck me as being close to the dulcimer. Yea I am crazy too but there seem to be a similiar strum for lack of better term. I just bring this up because you mentioned clawhammer. Oh and I picked up a new McSpadden Baritone with a redwood top. Reminds me of an organ a bit. So rich. Thanks for your diarys and don't worry about your friend.
You are the REAL real! Love it!
After listening to “Holy,Holy, Holy,” and hearing more complicated chords as you progressed, I was reminded of Maddie McNeil’s arrangement of “Planxty Fanny Power.” Every beat of that tune is a different chord or chordal variation. I can see that tune starting out with a simple melody and progressing gradually until it morphs into Maddie’s original arrangement or something similar.
love these. your the best my friend
Keep doing what you are doing the way you are doing it. It’s real in a very fake world. Play on and talk on brother!
Love the Diary!
I just found this. Liked and subscribed! I really enjoyed this. I've been very discouraged learning dulcimer and you've given me something to think about!
Love it!!
Excellent playing sir! And I can relate to your comments for sure. Good advice too... if I may ask, what was the song you were playing at the beginning? It's been driving me crazy trying to place it.
Re- RUclips algorithm - no idea how that thing works. But I know I’m tired of the grind of it and just want to play - for me! Don’t worry about what you put out, do it for you. People want tab, UGH 😢 I think I’m a worse musician after having to write and play it back as tabbed. That is not how I play, it’s by feel and ear. Don’t stop the faces, it’s just natural. I often purse my lips together, people want to think something about it, so what. People are mad at me for playing too much dulcimer, not enough banjo, too many hymns, the list goes on. You are a weirdo and that’s quite ok. I aspire to be half as weird dude!
Thanks, Mandy, re the tab remark. I am new and come to dulcimer with the luxury of an unused degree in music theory and composition (1975 !! ), so, when I look at the photos and videos of programs where people are taking dulcimer workshops I look to see if there is sheet music up everywhere - and, if so, then it's something I'll avoid. Suggestion (since you didn't ask for one - hah!!), maybe a video that actually encourages people to free themselves from the tab? How do they get to that point? I know you have produced so many wonderful free lessons and there are more in your membership platform, so maybe you have done one already . . . just a thought . . . and perhaps you don't need to hear one more thing to do right now. Please know you are valued and thanked for sharing your experience. I have bought you a cup of coffee, BTW !!!
@@AnneSTLMO Awwww thank you so much, that’s very sweet. Yes I have done some of those and will do a bunch more! I’ve got 2 good by ear lessons but want to do many of them. I’ve fallen into the trap of what pays the bills so to speak. But my future will change, I’m tired of chasing things. I play simply but it makes me happy and it’s by ear. Thanks so much for your encouragement!! Stephen- apologies for hijacking this thread. Blessings Anne 🙏 Oh and- Anne look for a video on this very topic soon. I’m on vacation right now but will be back soon!
Chicken Reel.
Did you record this at 1am?!?!?!
I recorded it early in the morning, but I don’t think I got it posted for a long time. Good to know you’re out there!
@@stephenseifert Yeah, I was up too late, and I saw that this had posted like 5 minutes earlier, and I was like. "Really?!?!"
We're out here!
Without