Learn Bass Dulcimer Backup Techniques for All Dulcimer Types

Class Introduction & Scope

• 💡 This intermediate-level class at Virtual Dulcimer Fest focuses on practical backup techniques for bass dulcimers.
• 🎯 It covers a variety of bass dulcimers, including octave-lower, two-octaves-lower, and even standard dulcimers used in a bass role.
• 🔑 Participants can use any dulcimer they have, as the techniques taught are applicable to both dedicated bass dulcimers and regular dulcimers.

Essential Music Theory for Bass

• 🧠 Learn the fundamental music theory required to identify the most important bass notes for common chords.
• 🎶 For any given chord, the primary goal is to play the root note that matches the chord name, like a D note for a D chord.
• ⚡ Progress beyond single notes by incorporating a second key note (e.g., D and A for a D chord) to create more dynamic bass lines.

Chord Support Strategies

• 🎼 Explore different ways to support each chord in context, moving beyond just hitting a single note repeatedly.
• 🎸 Discover how to use open notes and