My Dulcimer Sings To Me
A carpenter’s daughter am I but I do so love music.
So I built myself a lap dulcimer
of fine wild cherry and walnut;
I used my late Father’s old jigsaw,
cutting each plank into an elongated guitar shape.
Into the fingerboard, I measured, cut and hammered fret wire and carefully rasped away the roughened metal edges,
so I could play without any harm.
I sanded each one to a velvety caress,
steamed wood, shaped, and clamped sides into place;
a future musical vision, not just a typical hog fiddle but,
a fine tranquilizing music box.
On the top, I cut out flying birds and wood-burned, curly, swirling vines. I glued it all together carefully;
making sure to wipe down all of the sides.
When it was dry, I varnished it and then I sanded more.
So many layers brought out the woods luster.
No words explain the joy inside as my heartstrings did began to flutter.
Installing the pegs to hold the strings;
I carefully placed my screws then turning, turning carefully until they were solid there;
I adhered my bridge to the top.
Upon it then, I placed my strings;
adjusting the bridge, and tuned it up.
Oh, glorious be, such celestial sound
as across the strings, I dragged my thumb.
Such a magnificent harmonic thing;
ah, the way those strings had rung.
Off to YouTube I did go, for lessons I knew I’d find;
and when I play my dulcimer, it’s serenity sublime!
Copyright © M. L. Kiser | Year Posted 2019
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