Dusty Strings Harp and Hammered Dulcimer Makers logo(206) 634-1656

Several of us are away at the Somerset Folk Harp Festival, and we may not be able to respond to emails and phone calls as quickly as usual. Thank you for your patience!

Laser-cut DS logo in a hammered dulcimer hammer hovering over some strings

The Dusty Dulcimer Sound

Dusty Strings builds a number of hammered dulcimer models. They differ in size, materials, and bracing methods, and each offers its own benefits - from the affordable laminated-soundboard Overture with a sweet, balanced sound and easy portability, to the substantial and lush-sounding 4.5-octave D670. While the size and materials always affect the final sound, overall we have chosen to build instruments that have a controlled sustain and a strong fundamental tone that carries well. We feel that this serves a wide range of tastes and playing styles. A slow ballad is supported by the instrument's lush resonance, and you can also hit the strings hard or play an up-tempo piece without losing note definition. The clear, sparkly treble notes are balanced by the strong, deep bass, and the transitions between ranges are smooth and even.

We recommend listening to our sound recordings (with a good pair of headphones) for a taste of the Dusty sound.