David Lindsey first discovered the hammered dulcimer in June of 1978 while vacationing at Silver Dollar City, Missouri. Later that summer he bought a dulcimer kit, put it together, and taught himself to play. Right away David realized he was looking for a different sound than the kit, so in November of that year he built his first dulcimer from scratch.

Meanwhile, David’s wife Annette grew interested in the mountain dulcimer and she learned to play. Together the couple helped found the Sweet Song String Band, a group that is still active today. While playing in those early days, audience members began to ask where they could purchase a hammered dulcimer, and join the growing community of players for themselves. Once they learned that David had built his own dulcimer, he was soon asked to make dulcimers for them, and David’s Dulcimers was born.

1978 was a big year for David for he also heard his first dulcimer recording by Bill Spence. David was fascinated by the tone quality and dynamics of Spences’ playing, and knew this was the sound he wanted.

A couple of years later David and Bill met and discussed dulcimers. David was inspired by this meeting, and went home to develop The Grand. Now after more than 28 years of building experience, David has developed the all new Bill Spence Edition dulcimer!

David’s Dulcimers builds instruments with low sustain, and a powerful dynamic sound and tone quality. The Grand is great for any type of music, and although it is specially designed to be heard in the context of a string band, it also stands out as a beautiful solo instrument. The new Bill Spence Edition also offers a powerful sound, but in a more compact size and weight. The Spinet was developed for those players that require a full-size, yet lightweight, dulcimer. These instruments are available in the standard 16/15 size or in a chromatic design.

Professional players who prefer the superior quality, the acoustic sound, and the standard of excellence of David’s Dulcimers include: Bill Spence, Kendra Ward, Cathy Barton Para, Dana Hamilton, and Linda Thomas. Try one and discover the sound of a David’s Dulcimer for yourself!