You Need a Dulcimer Community

Many of you (including myself) are shy about sharing your musical progress with others. Often we feel intimidated, believing we are not good enough … yet. And the season of having the confidence to say we ARE good enough to play with others never seems to arrive.

But I believe music is meant to be shared at every stage of your learning process. Following are the top ten advantages of hanging out with other dulcimerists – whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced, seasoned player.

• Inspiration and motivation: Interacting with other musicians can be a great source of inspiration and motivation. Hearing their music, sharing ideas, and witnessing their dedication can inspire you to push yourself and strive for excellence in your own musical endeavors.
• Collaboration opportunities: Connecting with other musicians opens up possibilities for collaboration. Working with others on projects, performances, or recordings can lead to creative collaborations that result in unique and exciting musical outcomes.

DulcimerCrossing Members can Interact to provide these functions in the Community Tent Forum

• Feedback and constructive criticism: Seeking feedback from other musicians can provide valuable insights into your playing, compositions, or performances. Constructive criticism from peers can help you identify areas for improvement and grow as a musician.
• Networking opportunities: Building relationships with other musicians can expand your network within the music industry. Networking can lead to performance opportunities, collaborations, referrals, and connections that can further your musical career.
• Learning and skill development: Interacting with other musicians allows for the exchange of knowledge and skills. You can learn new techniques, approaches, and perspectives from fellow musicians, broadening your musical horizons and enhancing your skill set.
• Support and camaraderie: Being part of a community of musicians provides a sense of camaraderie and support. Sharing the highs and lows of the music industry with like-minded individuals can offer emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
• Exploration of different genres and styles: Connecting with musicians from diverse backgrounds can expose you to a wide range of musical genres and styles. Exploring different musical traditions and approaches can enrich your own music-making and broaden your musical palette.
• Performance opportunities: Networking with other musicians can lead to performance opportunities such as jam sessions, open mic nights, gigs, and collaborations. Performing with others can help you gain valuable stage experience and improve your live performance skills.
• Community involvement: Engaging with other musicians allows you to become part of a vibrant musical community. Participating in local music scenes, attending events, and supporting fellow musicians can strengthen your ties to the music community and enhance your overall musical experience.
• Fun and enjoyment: Lastly, hanging out with other musicians can simply be a fun and enjoyable experience. Sharing music, jamming together, attending concerts, and bonding over a shared passion for music can bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of camaraderie to your musical journey.

Happy dulcimering,
Linda

Anyone can apply to join our DulcimerCommunity on Facebook: 

The DulcimerCommunity-mastering the art of dulcimer