Published: May 28, 2009 02:50 pm      

Build a dulcimer in a day at Dalton State workshop

Bob Thomason has certainly earned the moniker of “expert” when it comes to the dulcimer. He’s been hands-on in the dulcimer business for nearly three decades, doing everything from dulcimer retail to dulcimer recordings to handcrafting the unique stringed instrument to building an Internet presence at www.dulcimerbob.com.

He will bring his expertise to the Center for Continuing Education in a one-day workshop, Dulcimer in a Day, on Saturday, June 6.

“The dulcimer has its roots in Europe and Scandinavia, but it was developed in its present form in the Southern mountains,” Thomason said. “This beautiful instrument is part of our Appalachian heritage, and I love sharing that with people.”

“As my knowledge of the dulcimer deepened, so did my desire to craft the highest-quality instruments,” Thomason said. “I concentrate on dulcimer kits and hand-select all of the hardwoods used in my kits from the finest sawmills and wood dealers. I buy it rough so I can complete all of the finishing work the way I want it done, to the highest standards.”

Some of Thomason’s favorite woods include black walnut, sassafras, wormy chestnut, butternut, maple and cherry.

“I do all of my own finishing work,” said Thomason. “All of the wood parts of the dulcimers in my kits are handcrafted in my shop.”

Thomason’s popular day-long workshops are a mixture of building and performance. He is well-qualified to teach impromptu dulcimer lessons with five dulcimer recordings under his belt.

“The best thing about teaching workshops is talking to the best people you’ll ever meet,” said Thomason, referring to his students. “They get so excited after they build their lovely instruments and then hit those first distinctive notes.”

The class will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the James E. Brown Center. Class size is limited and preregistration is required. Log on to www.daltonstate.edu/cce to register online, or call (706) 272-4454 to register or for more information.

“Everything is provided for students at the workshop, and it’s all included in the registration fee,” Thomason said. “All they need to bring is an eagerness to learn more about the dulcimer and an open mind. We always have fun!”