Thanks for visiting the Dulcimer U web site! We are excited that you are considering joining us for a week of dulcimer music, fun and fellowship in July. We have put in place a 1st class instructional staff, many of which have earned their Master's and Doctoral degrees in various educational fields. Their experience in the classroom as an instructor as well as on stage as a performer make them the very best at what they do!
You may be curious about our new name. What was formerly Mountain Dulcimer Week at WCU is now Dulcimer U, or Dulcimer University. The goal of Dulcimer U is to provide players the finest educational experience they can find at any dulcimer event while still maintaining a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere - offering something for everyone, no matter what their experience level. This new direction has provided us with an opportunity to implement some specialized courses in addition to our core curriculum - the basic skills classes for all ability levels. Subjects such as "Learning To Teach The Mountain Dulcimer" and "Dulcimer For Healing & Therapy" have been added to this year's lineup along with a "Dulcimer Traditions" class. Shorter afternoon mini-courses addressing subjects such as "Dulcimer In Worship" will also be offered.
Since we took over the responsibility of directing the dulcimer events for WCU a few years ago, we have been slowly implementing changes that have proven to be beneficial to the participants and to the event itself. Some of these changes include using the new Blue Ridge Residence Hall and having all classes, concerts, jam sessions and vendor area inside this building. This eliminates the need to shuttle from building to building. We are also now within just a few steps of the new cafeteria on campus, Courtyard Dining Hall. This means that once you park your car on Sunday, you will be able to easily access all of the week's activities without the need for transportation. We are 100% handicapped accessible.
While we are extremely proud of our new facilities and our instructional staff, Dulcimer U is not about showcasing them. Rather, it is about U, the participant. We are working hard to make this week the very best that it can be for each individual, whether you be a new player or a seasoned veteran.
This is a personal invitation to check out what we have to offer in the way of instruction and to join us for this very special week of learning more about the mountain dulcimer. We look forward to making music with you this summer!
Larry & Elaine Conger