Special Features

Focus On Convenience
Dulcimer U offers most workshops, accommodations, concerts, jam sessions and vendor area inside the Blue Ridge Residence Hall and Conference Center. Unlike other similar events that require a lot of walking or shuttling from class to class, our facilities are designed for your convenience. We are 100% handicapped accessible.

Dulcimer Ensemble Class
One of the most popular features of Dulcimer U each summer is the afternoon ensemble class. This session is offered in addition to the morning skills and afternoon electives. Everyone is invited to register for this class, regardless of skill level. However, you must indicate on your registration form whether you plan to attend so that the proper number of handouts can be prepared in advance. There will be parts for standard, baritone and bass dulcimers. This is a great way of making new friends and having fun learning how to play in an ensemble. Plan to make this a part of your daily schedule at Dulcimer U.

Intimate Evening Concerts
Multiple concerts will take place each evening Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in the various meeting areas throughout the residence hall. The idea is to allow participants to get “up close and personal” with their favorite instructor/performer in small intimate settings, possibly allowing for short Q & A sessions. A sign-up process will be available at check-in when you arrive on Sunday. You’ll perhaps be able to hear your favorite performer more than once throughout the week!

Daytime and Evening Jam Sessions
We offer organized jam sessions during the evenings but also allow for time during the day to be spontaneous with your friends who want to play music with you. During the late afternoons each day, anyone who wishes will have the option of starting their own informal jam in residence hall meeting areas, provided they are not being used for a class. Then, each evening after the concerts have ended, organized jams will be lead by our resident "Master of the Jam" Jim Miller.

Dulcimer Emporium
The vendor area will be conveniently housed inside Blue Ridge Hall and Conference Center. This will allow the Emporium to be open and staffed during more convenient hours, including the evening hours. The general public is welcome in addition to all Dulcimer Week participants. A host of vendors is expected to display their products along with instructor’s books and CDs. Limited vendor space is available on a first come-first serve basis and is restricted to dulcimer related products. You must reserve your space in advance and pay the applicable booth fee. If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Larry Conger at tndulciman@aol.com.

Dulcimer Raffle
A dulcimer has again been graciously donated by luthier Todd Wever for the purpose of a raffle. Everyone who enters the raffle will have an opportunity to win this beautiful instrument with all the proceeds going to fund future Dulcimer U scholarships.

Is There a Doctor in the House?
Yes, once again this year we will have an expert repair person on call to assist you with any dulcimer repairs or upgrades that you might require. Mike Clemmer of Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop in Townsend, Tennessee will be available each day to change strings, add frets or strap buttons, repair tuners or set the action on your dulcimer. Just drop by Mike's booth inside the Dulcimer Emporium to discuss your needs and make arrangements to have the work done.

Continuing Education Unit (CEU) Credits
CEUs are available when you attend WCU Mountain Dulcimer Week. Interested teachers should contact their local school board for prior approval for Teacher Certificate Renewal Credit. Contact Bobby Hensley at WCU for details and sign up on the registration form.