Hammered Dulcimer Notation Symbols

        Shown below are the symbols I use to mark the positions on the dulcimer where I play notes.  This remains unchanged from what already appears both Striking Out and Winning! and Thus Sings My Soul (the book of hammered dulcimer solos from the CD of the same title).  If you don't, but you've encountered a dulcimer part to one of my choral compositions, these symbols will help you navigate.  Either way, feel free to copy this page for reference.  (Note: Choral parts are charted for a right-hand lead; some position symbols will need to be adjusted should a left-hand lead be preferred.)

I             first position (right side of the treble bridge; generally understood but appears occasionally in music notation)

II            second position (left side of treble bridge)

B            bass position (the bass strings)

(II), (B)   you have a choice: play in the position shown or in first position

L, R   left, right stroke

[             bracket; shows which notes of a double stop are in the position shown

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