Learn more about the Dulcimer and the North Georgia Foothills Dulcimer Association (NGFDA)
THE MOUNTAIN DULCIMER
The Mountain Dulcimer, or Appalachian/Lap Dulcimer, is a handcrafted folk music instrument holding historical significance and traditions unique to America.
It originates from early 17th-century immigrant settlers traveling along the Wilderness Road into the mountains of Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee, crafting instruments from native woods.
THE HAMMERED DULCIMER
The Hammered Dulcimer is a large handcrafted trapezoid-shaped folk instrument with many strings stretched across a wooden platform.
Its ancient Middle East roots are probably found in the Bible’s Old Testament. It is known in many countries, coming to America with immigrants, becoming popular as a ‘parlor instrument’ in the 1920/30’s.
The Benefits of NGFDA Membership
The North Georgia Foothills Dulcimer Association connects a network of satellite dulcimer clubs throughout the southeastern United States. Each satellite is unique, and committed to sharing the joy of dulcimer music with others. As a member of the NGFDA, you’ll receive numerous benefits, including:
Discounts on instructor workshops
Reduced pricing for in-person and virtual concerts
Exclusive member-only deals
Foothills Footnotes - a quarterly newsletter
Access to specially curated tablature collections
Attend satellite clubs when traveling
Connect with a growing number of mountain dulcimer and hammered dulcimer players
and more!
Join today, and get started right away by finding dulcimer clubs in your area. Use the green button below to meet some of the nicest people around: dulcimer folks!
Meet our 2026 Board Members
Barbara Stevens -President
Steve Mellott - Treasurer
Vicki Allen - Secretary
Laurell Wilson - Virtual Fall Festival Director
Jan Stone - Foothills Footnotes Newsletter Editor
Bing Futch - Satellite Liaison Director /NGFDA Webmaster
Mike VanDemark - Board Member, Past President