Mastering the Dulcimer: A Comprehensive Guide to Tuning Your Mountain Instrument

The mountain dulcimer, with its sweet and ethereal sound, is a captivating instrument steeped in Appalachian tradition. But before you can unlock its enchanting melodies, you need to understand the crucial art of tuning. A well-tuned dulcimer is the foundation for beautiful music, while an out-of-tune instrument can be frustrating and disheartening. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the basics of dulcimer tuning, providing clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your instrument is always sounding its best.

Understanding Dulcimer Tuning Basics

Unlike guitars or other multi-stringed instruments with complex chord voicings, the dulcimer is typically tuned to a diatonic scale, meaning it plays the notes of a major scale. This makes it relatively easy to learn and play melodies. However, the simplicity doesn’t mean tuning is unimportant. Precision is key!

Dulcimer Anatomy: The Parts You Need to Know

Before we dive into the tuning process, let’s familiarize ourselves with the essential parts of the dulcimer:

• Tuning Pegs (or Machine Heads): These are located at the headstock of the instrument and are used to adjust the tension of the strings, thereby changing their pitch.
• Strings: Most dulcimers have three or four strings. We’ll discuss the most common configurations later.
• Bridge: The bridge is a piece of wood (usually) that supports the strings and transmits their vibrations to the soundboard.
• Nut: Located at the headstock, the nut holds the strings in place and helps define their length.
• Soundboard: The top of the dulcimer, which vibrates to produce sound.
• Frets: The metal bars on the fretboard that, when pressed down, shorten the vibrating length of the string and produce different notes.

Common Dulcimer Tunings

While numerous tunings exist, these are the most frequently used for three- and four-string dulcimers:

• DAD (or 1-5-8): This is the most common tuning for three-string dulcimers. From the string closest to you (the bass string) to the string furthest away (the melody string), the notes are D, A, and D. Think of the numbers representing the scale degrees. 1 is the root (D), 5 is the fifth (A), and 8 is an octave above the root (D).
• DAA (or 1-5-5): Another popular tuning for three-string dulcimers. The notes are D, A, and A. The two A strings are tuned in unison (the same pitch).
• DAdd (or 1-5-5-8): A common tuning for four-string dulcimers. The notes are D, A, A, and D. This is essentially DAA tuning with a doubled melody string.
• DGD (or 1-4-8): Less common, but still useful for certain songs. The notes are D, G, and D. The G string provides a different harmonic texture.
• DAC (or 1-5-b7): Another less common but useful alternative tuning for particular tunes, with the notes D, A, and C.

Throughout this guide, we’ll primarily focus on the DAD tuning, as it’s the most beginner-friendly and widely used. However, the general principles apply to all tunings.

Tools You’ll Need

• Electronic Tuner or Tuning App: The most accurate way to tune your dulcimer. Chromatic tuners are ideal, as they can recognize any note. Many free and paid tuning apps are available for smartphones and tablets (e.g., GuitarTuna, InsTuner).
• (Optional) Tuning Fork or Pitch Pipe: Useful for establishing a reference pitch (usually A 440 Hz).
• (Optional) Winder: A small tool that makes winding the tuning pegs easier and faster, especially when changing strings.
• A Quiet Space: Minimizing background noise will help you hear the notes clearly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tuning Your Dulcimer (DAD Tuning)

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to tune your dulcimer to DAD:

1. Prepare Your Dulcimer: Make sure your dulcimer is stable and resting on a flat surface or in your lap. This will prevent any accidental movements while you’re tuning. Ensure the strings are properly seated in the nut and bridge slots.
2. Tune the Middle String (A): Start with the middle string, which should be tuned to A.
   • Using a Tuner: Turn on your electronic tuner or open your tuning app. Pluck the middle string (the one that isn’t closest to you when the dulcimer is in playing position). The tuner will display the note it detects. If the note is flat (lower than A), turn the tuning peg counterclockwise to tighten the string and raise the pitch. If the note is sharp (higher than A), turn the tuning peg clockwise to loosen the string and lower the pitch. Aim for A4 (440 Hz is the standard).
   • Using a Tuning Fork or Pitch Pipe: Strike the tuning fork or blow into the pitch pipe to produce an A note. Compare the sound to the middle string of your dulcimer. Adjust the tuning peg until the string matches the A note.

   Tip: When tightening or loosening the strings, make small, incremental adjustments. Over-tightening can break a string, and over-loosening can cause it to slip out of tune quickly.

3. Tune the Bass String (D): Next, tune the string closest to you (the bass string) to D.
   • Using a Tuner: Pluck the bass string. Adjust the tuning peg until the tuner reads D3 (an octave below the melody string D).
   • Relative Tuning (after tuning the A): Once the middle string is tuned to A, you can tune the bass string to D by ear. Press down on the 7th fret of the middle string (the A string). This should produce a D note. Tune the bass string until it matches the D note produced by the 7th fret of the middle string.

   Why the 7th fret? On a dulcimer in DAD tuning, the 7th fret of the middle string will always give you the same note as the open bass string.

4. Tune the Melody String (D): Finally, tune the string furthest from you (the melody string) to D.
   • Using a Tuner: Pluck the melody string. Adjust the tuning peg until the tuner reads D4 (the same octave as the D note you produced by pressing the 7th fret of the A string, or an octave above the bass string).
   • Relative Tuning (after tuning the A): Press down on the 5th fret of the middle string (the A string). This should produce a D note. Tune the melody string until it matches the D note produced by the 5th fret of the middle string.

   Why the 5th fret? On a dulcimer in DAD tuning, the 5th fret of the middle string will always give you the same note as the open melody string.

5. Fine-Tuning: After tuning all three strings, pluck them individually and then strum them together. Listen carefully for any discrepancies. You may need to make slight adjustments to each string until they sound harmonious together.
6. Stretch the Strings: New strings tend to stretch out quickly, which can cause them to go out of tune. Gently stretch each string by pulling up on it in the middle. Be careful not to pull too hard, as you could break the string. Re-tune the strings after stretching them.
7. Re-Check the Tuning: After stretching the strings, re-check the tuning one last time. Your dulcimer should now be in tune and ready to play!

Tuning a Four-String Dulcimer (DAdd Tuning)

Tuning a four-string dulcimer in DAdd is very similar to tuning a three-string dulcimer in DAD. The only difference is that you have two melody strings tuned in unison. Here’s how to do it:

1. Tune the Bass String (D): Follow the same instructions as above for tuning the bass string to D.
2. Tune the Middle String (A): Follow the same instructions as above for tuning the middle string to A.
3. Tune the First Melody String (d): Follow the same instructions as above for tuning the melody string to D (lower case ‘d’ often denotes the higher octave).
4. Tune the Second Melody String (d): Tune the second melody string (the one next to the first melody string) to D. The easiest way to do this is to tune it *by ear* to match the pitch of the first melody string you just tuned. Pluck both strings together and adjust the tuning peg of the second melody string until they sound perfectly in unison.
5. Fine-Tune and Stretch: Follow the same instructions as above for fine-tuning and stretching the strings. Make sure both melody strings are perfectly in tune with each other.

Troubleshooting Common Tuning Problems

Even with careful attention, you might encounter some common tuning challenges. Here’s how to address them:

• Strings Won’t Stay in Tune:
  • New Strings: As mentioned earlier, new strings stretch significantly. Tune frequently during the first few days after installing new strings.
  • Old Strings: Old strings can lose their elasticity and become difficult to tune. Consider replacing them.
  • Slipping Tuning Pegs: If the tuning pegs are slipping, they may need to be tightened. Some tuning pegs have a small screw that can be tightened to increase friction. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could damage the peg. If you’re using friction pegs, you might consider peg dope (a special compound designed to add friction to tuning pegs) or replacing them.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Wood instruments are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Extreme conditions can cause the wood to expand or contract, affecting the tuning. Avoid storing your dulcimer in direct sunlight or in damp environments.
• Strings Break Frequently:
  • Over-Tuning: Make sure you’re not tuning the strings too high. Use a tuner to ensure you’re reaching the correct pitch.
  • Sharp Edges: Check the nut and bridge for any sharp edges that could be cutting into the strings. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots.
  • Old Strings: Old strings become brittle and are more likely to break. Replace them regularly.
  • Poor String Quality: Use good-quality dulcimer strings. Cheaper strings are often more prone to breakage.
• Buzzing Sounds:
  • Low Action: If the strings are too close to the frets, they may buzz when you play. This is called low action. The action can be adjusted by raising the bridge or nut. This is best left to a luthier if you are not experienced.
  • Uneven Frets: If some frets are higher than others, they can cause buzzing. This is a more serious issue that may require a luthier to level the frets.
  • Loose Braces: Internal braces inside the instrument can sometimes come loose, causing buzzing. This is a repair best left to a professional.

Tips for Maintaining Tuning Stability

Here are some additional tips to help keep your dulcimer in tune for longer:

• Store Your Dulcimer Properly: Keep your dulcimer in a case when you’re not playing it. This will protect it from temperature and humidity fluctuations, as well as physical damage.
• Change Your Strings Regularly: As a general rule, change your strings every 3-6 months, or more often if you play frequently. Fresh strings sound brighter and stay in tune better.
• Use a Humidifier: If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidifier in the room where you store your dulcimer. This will help prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Never leave your dulcimer in a hot car or in direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can damage the instrument.
• Get Regular Checkups: Take your dulcimer to a qualified luthier for regular checkups. They can identify and address any potential problems before they become serious.

Beyond DAD: Exploring Other Dulcimer Tunings

While DAD is a fantastic starting point, don’t be afraid to experiment with other tunings. Different tunings can open up new melodic possibilities and create unique sonic textures. Here are a few to explore:

• DAA: As mentioned earlier, DAA is a common tuning that produces a drone-like sound due to the two A strings tuned in unison. It’s great for playing modal tunes and creating a haunting atmosphere.
• DGD: DGD tuning offers a darker, more resonant sound than DAD. The G string adds a different harmonic flavor that can be used to create interesting chord voicings.
• DAC: This gives a more minor sound.

When experimenting with new tunings, always be careful not to over-tighten the strings. Refer to a reliable tuning chart or online resource to ensure you’re tuning the strings to the correct pitches.

Conclusion: The Journey to Dulcimer Mastery

Tuning your dulcimer is an essential skill for any player. By understanding the basics of tuning and following the step-by-step instructions in this guide, you can ensure that your instrument is always sounding its best. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tunings and find the ones that suit your musical style. With practice and patience, you’ll master the art of tuning and unlock the full potential of your mountain dulcimer. Happy playing!