Discover the Magic of Dulcimoon
Virtual Dulcimer Festival & Community
Join us for a unique and engaging virtual dulcimer festival that celebrates community, creativity, and the inspiring contributions of women in the dulcimer world.
About Dulcimoon
Dulcimoon is a vibrant, woman-led virtual dulcimer festival dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive community for players of all levels. Our mission is to celebrate the spirit of collective exploration, personal expression, and joyful learning, while highlighting the inspiring contributions of women in the dulcimer world. Children are welcome and encouraged to participate in free workshops and online activities created just for them!
What Sets Us Apart
Community Engagement
Our festival fosters a sense of community through interactive workshops, social gatherings, and collaborative playing circles, ensuring everyone feels included and inspired.
Flexible Learning
With a variety of workshop options and flexible scheduling, participants can tailor their festival experience to their own interests and skill levels.
Inspiring Performances
Enjoy extended performances from our talented teaching artists, along with special presentations and surprise performances that make each festival unique and exciting.
Our Teachers, Past & Present
Anne Lough – MD & HD
Heidi Muller
Roxanne McDaniel – MD
Ruth Smith – HD
Kara Barnard – MD
Mary Lynn Michal
Cyntia Smith, Mountain Dulcimer
Carolyn Brodginski
Mandy Tyner
Karen Ashbrook
Debbie Porter
Carol Crocker
Carmen Amrein
Aubrey Atwater
Pam Bowman
Jessica Comeau
Katie Moritz
Elaine Conger
Melanie Johnston
Laurie Alsobrook
What to Expect at Our Festival
Teacher Meet & Greet
Kick off your Dulcimoon Festival experience with our Thursday Evening Teacher Meet and Greet! This is the perfect opportunity to get comfortable with the festival’s online platform, navigate the website, and learn about the login process. You’ll also get familiar with finding the Home Room, a central gathering spot for festival participants.
But it’s not all tech—this event is a great chance to meet your festival faculty in a relaxed and informal setting. Whether you’re reconnecting with long-time friends or making new ones, this meet and greet sets a warm and friendly tone for the festival weekend!
Friday Night Concert
Enjoy a night of incredible music with our Friday Night Concert, streamed live via Zoom. This extended performance features our teaching artists, each offering their unique talents in a curated program that’s sure to inspire and uplift. Settle in for an evening of beautiful dulcimer music, presented by the best in the community! What sets us apart, our concerts feature longer sets from our teaching artists (20-40 minute sets).
Saturday Workshops
Start the day with a morning orientation to get settled in and ready for a day of learning and music. You’ll then dive into three 75-minute workshops, all included for one price, led by our incredible teaching artists. During lunch, connect with fellow participants in the Home Room for some social time, and later, join the community Playing Circle for a west-coast style jam session, where everyone can join in the fun!
Saturday Night Concert
Join us for another evening of exceptional music, featuring performances from our talented teaching artists. This carefully curated program is designed to be cohesive and inspiring, offering a rich musical experience for all attendees. Special presentations and captivating acts will make this a night to remember!
Sunday "À la carte" Workshops
Personalize your festival experience with three 2-hour workshop periods. Select one, two, or all three sessions, depending on your interests and schedule. Plus, enjoy special lunchtime presentations, which are open to all participants for additional insights and inspiration.
Sunday Lunchtime Presentations
Dulcimoon connects people through many rich musical traditions. Such as events like Aubrey Atwater’s presentation on Jean Ritchie, “Looking at Ritchie Family Dulcimer Techniques, Tunings and Modes” and Dulcimer Community Kid’s Concerts, interactive performances inspiring young minds.
Children's Workshops
One free kids workshop each day of our festival.
Free activities for kids — we offer daily workshops especially for young learners and never charge for these sessions. We want Dulcimoon events to be fun and inspiring for the whole family!
Experienced faculty provide workshops focused on Music & Movement, Sing-Alongs, Collaborative Songwriting, Art & Music Integration, and Instrument Play-Alongs.
Beyond the Festival
Dulcimoon Talks
Join us twice monthly for Dulcimoon Talks, where we engage in insightful conversations with women leaders, teachers, producers, and artists in the dulcimer community. These talks explore their personal musical journeys and offer inspiration to dulcimer players and enthusiasts alike.
Community Connections
Our connection with the community continues beyond the festival. Participate in various activities and discussions that foster a sense of belonging and continuous learning within the dulcimer community.
Special Presentations
Attend special presentations and surprise performances that pop up throughout the year, making each event an exciting and unique experience.
Join the Dulcimoon Community
Become a part of our vibrant, supportive community at the Dulcimoon Virtual Dulcimer Festival. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, our festival offers a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the dulcimer’s beautiful sound. Sign up now to experience the magic!