Basic Handholds

Here are two basic handholds. (See Fig. 5 &6) Choose the handhold that is comfortalbe for you. Stroke across the string or strings you want to play. Increasing the bow pressure against the strings, increases the volume. Vary the speed of the bow across the strings to control note length and create fiddle-like rhythm chords and melodies. I recommend the use of a strap to stabilize your dulcimer while bowing. Make sure you have plenty of rosin on the bow and go to it!