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About => Hammered Dulcimer => Topic started by: David Jordahl on May 25, 2020, 11:45:05 pm

Title: About Jerry Read Smith (luthier)
Post by: David Jordahl on May 25, 2020, 11:45:05 pm
Jerry Read Smith has been building hammered dulcimers for over 40 years.  About 20 years ago, or more, I contacted Jerry, even calling him on the phone.  I had been drooling over his dulcimers for years.  Everything about Jerry is points to putting content, technique, as well as heart and soul into his dulcimers. 

When I contacted Jerry, I was in no position to put any money down on one of his dulcimers.  I was essentially letting my heart want what it wants.

And, I guess there was a bit of naivete in my wishing and wanting one of his dulcimers.  But, here's the thing.  There are many people, some of whom I have known, even as friends, that do not know what they want.  So, my efforts speak to my process of learning what I want.And, 20 or more years later I'm still here with my passion for playing a professional style instrument, as part of my form of retirement.  Although, I'm not the retiring type, truth be told.  And, I'm still in the position of not having the means to buy one of Jerry's dulcimers.  But again, it's a matter focus and determination.

But, more importantly, I have a goal that leads to something very fun for me.  If, and when I have the funds to buy one of Jerry's dulcimers, I will continue where I left off in the late 80's and early 90's.  Playing for weddings, events, maybe a college play (which I did for a play at Carlton College), and maybe for the Renaissance Festival.
Title: Intro to Jerry
Post by: David Jordahl on May 26, 2020, 12:22:24 am
https://youtu.be/v-D4kLx0Hpg
Title: Intro to Zachery Hamilton
Post by: David Jordahl on May 26, 2020, 12:33:17 am
Again, I appreciate Jerry's personality, consistency, and integrity regarding his work.
I am very picky about most things I value in my life.  Many of the wood, color, and style combinations I've seen in Jerry's instruments have not been my taste in how I want my dulcimers to look. 

All 3 dulcimers in the background of this video are BEAUTIFUL!
https://youtu.be/AOWsN85oUlc