What my fans are saying. . .
My heartfelt thanks to Melanie Johnston for this review of my new book, Pooh Songs:
"Carol!
I have just finished reading through this book then playing all the tunes along with the audio files. So delightful!!
As always - you did a great job describing everything. I remember this book of poetry very well from my childhood and reading it over and over to my own kids. BTW - the font you used is perfect.
The songs are a lot of fun because they are so different from the usual stuff we play. And you get to think of the words and story as well, making it doubly delightful!
I also appreciate that you don't "dumb things down" meaning you use real musical terms and dynamics and explain them to people who may not yet be familiar.
Great idea. Great execution.
Thank you so much!"
"Carol!
I have just finished reading through this book then playing all the tunes along with the audio files. So delightful!!
As always - you did a great job describing everything. I remember this book of poetry very well from my childhood and reading it over and over to my own kids. BTW - the font you used is perfect.
The songs are a lot of fun because they are so different from the usual stuff we play. And you get to think of the words and story as well, making it doubly delightful!
I also appreciate that you don't "dumb things down" meaning you use real musical terms and dynamics and explain them to people who may not yet be familiar.
Great idea. Great execution.
Thank you so much!"
Reviews of the new St. Kilda book and CD:
From V. in Georgia: "I just received the book!!!!! It is such a beautiful story and such beautiful music. I'm going to play this for my group and encourage them to get one for their own. Thank you and all the music people of the world for saving this music of the heart of St. Kilda."
From I. in New York: "I don't have the words to describe how illuminating and beautiful your CD and music book are. Thank you for shining a light on Mr. Morrison and for making the music of St. Kilda more visible. I trust you will think about giving an instructional workshop on this book someday in the near future. I can only dream of playing the pieces as beautiful as you, but I am willing to learn techniques to give them a little justice. I can't thank you enough for blessing us with the sound of music. Scotland will be forever in my ❤ ."
From D. in Texas: "I’m listening to your versions of “Melodies of St. Kilda” and you have captured the haunting quality of these lovely tunes. Their beautiful chords, tone and movements evoke tears just like the Trevor Morrison CD. I love the ocean sounds and even storms in the background…you thought of everything! Thanks for your attention to detail and love for all things music and all things dulcimer, and especially thank you for sharing it with the music- loving world. I’m excited to start work on the tablature."
From R. in Connecticut: "I can’t thank you enough for making this beautiful music available to play on the dulcimer. Every piece is such a beautiful arrangement and I so enjoy the ocean and bird sound between pieces. I can hardly wait for you to have some workshops on this music. Thank you ever so much for making this available to us."
From G.: "I so, so enjoyed your class today. I listen to your CD during my meditation. Thank you for preserving these songs, and sharing them. Thank you, thank you."
From V. in Georgia: "I just received the book!!!!! It is such a beautiful story and such beautiful music. I'm going to play this for my group and encourage them to get one for their own. Thank you and all the music people of the world for saving this music of the heart of St. Kilda."
From I. in New York: "I don't have the words to describe how illuminating and beautiful your CD and music book are. Thank you for shining a light on Mr. Morrison and for making the music of St. Kilda more visible. I trust you will think about giving an instructional workshop on this book someday in the near future. I can only dream of playing the pieces as beautiful as you, but I am willing to learn techniques to give them a little justice. I can't thank you enough for blessing us with the sound of music. Scotland will be forever in my ❤ ."
From D. in Texas: "I’m listening to your versions of “Melodies of St. Kilda” and you have captured the haunting quality of these lovely tunes. Their beautiful chords, tone and movements evoke tears just like the Trevor Morrison CD. I love the ocean sounds and even storms in the background…you thought of everything! Thanks for your attention to detail and love for all things music and all things dulcimer, and especially thank you for sharing it with the music- loving world. I’m excited to start work on the tablature."
From R. in Connecticut: "I can’t thank you enough for making this beautiful music available to play on the dulcimer. Every piece is such a beautiful arrangement and I so enjoy the ocean and bird sound between pieces. I can hardly wait for you to have some workshops on this music. Thank you ever so much for making this available to us."
From G.: "I so, so enjoyed your class today. I listen to your CD during my meditation. Thank you for preserving these songs, and sharing them. Thank you, thank you."
Carol's latest book, released October, 2017.
Reviews of the new Classical book:
From Sam Edelston in Connecticut: "I just spent a few minutes flipping through your new opus and trying several of the pieces. You’ve done it again – brought an under-used body of music to the instrument very accessibly, with great clarity and good humor."
From Jerry Rockwell in Ohio: "It is fabulous..... The ensemble arrangements are such a great idea, and I feel like shouting it out to all the dulcimer clubs out there that there is a beginner and intermediate version of Canon in D that they should get right on straightaway!!!!"
From Joanne in Washington: "If butterflies were hugs, I would send you a kaleidoscope. When I received your book in the mail I briefly overviewed your music and played the first couple of tunes. Then yesterday...time to noodle around with your music. I thoroughly enjoyed playing the tunes. It just brought so many musical memories back for me with my mother."
From Nadine in Virginia: "What a cool bunch of classical hits! This is going to be fun working on these pieces. What a fantastic collection and excellent written tab of classical music. Love the intro texts too, and all the great dulcimer tidbits how to play. AWESOME !!!"
From Donna in Delaware: "[The book] is amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your gift of mountain dulcimer music. I look forward to honing my skills and learning some new ones."
From Sam Edelston in Connecticut: "I just spent a few minutes flipping through your new opus and trying several of the pieces. You’ve done it again – brought an under-used body of music to the instrument very accessibly, with great clarity and good humor."
From Jerry Rockwell in Ohio: "It is fabulous..... The ensemble arrangements are such a great idea, and I feel like shouting it out to all the dulcimer clubs out there that there is a beginner and intermediate version of Canon in D that they should get right on straightaway!!!!"
From Joanne in Washington: "If butterflies were hugs, I would send you a kaleidoscope. When I received your book in the mail I briefly overviewed your music and played the first couple of tunes. Then yesterday...time to noodle around with your music. I thoroughly enjoyed playing the tunes. It just brought so many musical memories back for me with my mother."
From Nadine in Virginia: "What a cool bunch of classical hits! This is going to be fun working on these pieces. What a fantastic collection and excellent written tab of classical music. Love the intro texts too, and all the great dulcimer tidbits how to play. AWESOME !!!"
From Donna in Delaware: "[The book] is amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your gift of mountain dulcimer music. I look forward to honing my skills and learning some new ones."
Reviews -- Book 3 of the DNA* Trilogy (2016):
From Judith Giddings:
"I truly feel that your book is one of a kind. I’m impressed at the depth and detail of the whole project, from all the great teaching/playing tips and videos, to the information on each tune and your memories and connections to the tunes that bring the music to life. I felt like I was in the presence of a very good and knowledgeable teacher who approaches her students with great encouragement, humor, and understanding. This book inspires, uplifts, and teaches, all with great warmth and skill. It’s a real treasure and a work of the heart. Thank you so much!”
From Jerry Rockwell:
"Your keyboard chops and overall musicianship come through loud and clear everywhere, which I appreciate so much because it is extremely rare in the mountain dulcimer world. The lightness and sense of humor is ever-present. I really believe in repertoire and having fun with music, and you've got an amazing selection of well-known songs in these books. As you say, this is the stuff I WISH I had when I first discovered the dulcimer."
From Sam Edelston:
"I’ve recommended the first two volumes to a number of people. Your step-by-step approach makes so much sense, as far as I’m concerned, you’ve written the default textbook. If #3 is as good as the others, it will be a real treat for people."
From Judy in Ohio:
"DNA Dulcimer Ditties Book 3 is a thoroughly delightful collection of tunes for the mountain dulcimer. Venturing through the familiar songs will bring back memories, perhaps long-forgotten. And, an added treat are the unexpected chords in many of the arrangements, a nice surprise to happen upon."
From Fred in Connecticut:
"Looking forward to [this book] as I have others of yours and LOVE them. You are a real inspiration! Thanks so much, and I look forward to playing these books for many years to come. I love the additional comments with the songs. Also the spiral binding is great."
Reviews of the new Homespun DVD --
Exploring the Beauty of the
Appalachian Dulcimer -- 2015
From Ellen:
"I purchased your lesson from Homespun and am enjoying learning to play the dulcimer. Your instruction was so helpful as I was struggling to find the notes and strum at the same time. I am able to play your songs so much easier & sound better so much quicker than I thought possible."
from Donna in Delaware:
"I'm enjoying your video instructions on Homespun so much. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents."
from Jill in California:
"Thank you! I recently purchased your new DVD from Homespun and cannot praise it highly enough. Exactly what I was hoping for!"
from Stephanie in Pennsylvania:
“Exploring the Beauty of the Appalachian Dulcimer” is the best instructional DVD I have purchased. First it is done beautifully and I love the tunes. It was really convenient to be able to use the DVD to access the tab for the tunes and print them out. This gave me the ability to become familiar with the tunes and play along with you. I especially like your techniques doing variations for a tune using different picking patterns, vibrato and slides. Covering the use of a capo was a great addition to your instruction. I highly recommend the DVD, your CD and your books to everyone. Can’t wait to see what you will have next!"
from Joanne in Washington:
"I thoroughly enjoy your style of playing and teaching instruction. Being a teacher myself, of 34 years, I viewed excellent strategies in your teaching skills for someone to understand and master. The production was well done, zooming in and out at the adequate time. Also the split screen was a major factor to see what both hands were doing close up."
From Ken in Australia:
"I have downloaded the digital version from Homespun. I am very impressed with your teaching style and the content Carol. Being a novice to the Appalachian Dulcimer I found it easy to follow. Thank you......"
From Marilyn R:
"This was a great video and I highly recommend to all. I hope she makes more videos. The camera angles really allowed you to see what Carol was teaching. She definitely has a gift for teaching."
From Nancy in Michigan:
"My friend recommended your DVD and said it was one of the best methods she has ever seen. Looking forward to learning."
Exploring the Beauty of the
Appalachian Dulcimer -- 2015
From Ellen:
"I purchased your lesson from Homespun and am enjoying learning to play the dulcimer. Your instruction was so helpful as I was struggling to find the notes and strum at the same time. I am able to play your songs so much easier & sound better so much quicker than I thought possible."
from Donna in Delaware:
"I'm enjoying your video instructions on Homespun so much. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents."
from Jill in California:
"Thank you! I recently purchased your new DVD from Homespun and cannot praise it highly enough. Exactly what I was hoping for!"
from Stephanie in Pennsylvania:
“Exploring the Beauty of the Appalachian Dulcimer” is the best instructional DVD I have purchased. First it is done beautifully and I love the tunes. It was really convenient to be able to use the DVD to access the tab for the tunes and print them out. This gave me the ability to become familiar with the tunes and play along with you. I especially like your techniques doing variations for a tune using different picking patterns, vibrato and slides. Covering the use of a capo was a great addition to your instruction. I highly recommend the DVD, your CD and your books to everyone. Can’t wait to see what you will have next!"
from Joanne in Washington:
"I thoroughly enjoy your style of playing and teaching instruction. Being a teacher myself, of 34 years, I viewed excellent strategies in your teaching skills for someone to understand and master. The production was well done, zooming in and out at the adequate time. Also the split screen was a major factor to see what both hands were doing close up."
From Ken in Australia:
"I have downloaded the digital version from Homespun. I am very impressed with your teaching style and the content Carol. Being a novice to the Appalachian Dulcimer I found it easy to follow. Thank you......"
From Marilyn R:
"This was a great video and I highly recommend to all. I hope she makes more videos. The camera angles really allowed you to see what Carol was teaching. She definitely has a gift for teaching."
From Nancy in Michigan:
"My friend recommended your DVD and said it was one of the best methods she has ever seen. Looking forward to learning."
Exploring DVDOrder your copy -- (DVD or download) here
Bill Collins, a fellow composer/arranger, and highly respected dulcimer performer and teacher, has been kind enough to share his impressions of the new book:
"Carol Walker's eagerly awaited new collection of more Manx music for mountain dulcimer ("Tailless Tunes 2") is a great follow-up to her 2010 collection. The new book features more than 50 traditional and contemporary tunes from the Isle of Man, mostly in DAD. The arrangements range from fairly easy to challenging and include lively dance tunes, waltzes, songs, lovely airs, and the Manx national anthem. All feature Carol's clear tablature, notation, and useful playing tips, along with lyrics to songs. Note that some arrangements require a 1+ fret. Added bonuses of the 100-page book include a thorough introduction, an extensive bibliography, indexes (in English and Manx), brief bios of the contributors, and even a recipe! In addition, the book comes with a CD of Carol playing through every tune, which is extremely helpful for learning these unfamiliar melodies. Carol's extensive knowledge of and love for Manx music is evident throughout this fine sequel, and the book does a wonderful service in making this lesser-known Celtic repertoire available to dulcimer players. It's music that deserves to be widely played and enjoyed."
Click here to read more about Bill Collins
"Carol Walker's eagerly awaited new collection of more Manx music for mountain dulcimer ("Tailless Tunes 2") is a great follow-up to her 2010 collection. The new book features more than 50 traditional and contemporary tunes from the Isle of Man, mostly in DAD. The arrangements range from fairly easy to challenging and include lively dance tunes, waltzes, songs, lovely airs, and the Manx national anthem. All feature Carol's clear tablature, notation, and useful playing tips, along with lyrics to songs. Note that some arrangements require a 1+ fret. Added bonuses of the 100-page book include a thorough introduction, an extensive bibliography, indexes (in English and Manx), brief bios of the contributors, and even a recipe! In addition, the book comes with a CD of Carol playing through every tune, which is extremely helpful for learning these unfamiliar melodies. Carol's extensive knowledge of and love for Manx music is evident throughout this fine sequel, and the book does a wonderful service in making this lesser-known Celtic repertoire available to dulcimer players. It's music that deserves to be widely played and enjoyed."
Click here to read more about Bill Collins
From Jean in Wisconsin:
"I've been a Carol Walker fan ever since I purchased Tailless Tunes at Kentucky Music Week in 2013. I didn't know much about you or your book (I think it was that beautiful cover that made me buy it), but since then I've been preaching the gospel of Manx music to all my MD friends. There aren't too many here, [in northern Wisconsin, halfway between NJ and the North Pole] but every one has heard about your book. The Goodnight Song is now a permanent part of my MD Christmas set. And, did you know that the Goodnight Song sits perfectly on the Native American flute? My flute circle played it just the other night, and I accompanied with guitar chords. It takes a B minor flute to play it as written."
"I've been a Carol Walker fan ever since I purchased Tailless Tunes at Kentucky Music Week in 2013. I didn't know much about you or your book (I think it was that beautiful cover that made me buy it), but since then I've been preaching the gospel of Manx music to all my MD friends. There aren't too many here, [in northern Wisconsin, halfway between NJ and the North Pole] but every one has heard about your book. The Goodnight Song is now a permanent part of my MD Christmas set. And, did you know that the Goodnight Song sits perfectly on the Native American flute? My flute circle played it just the other night, and I accompanied with guitar chords. It takes a B minor flute to play it as written."
From Stephanie in Pennsylvania:
"The Manx culture and music is really so very interesting. I appreciate how you have incorporated historical and cultural information, as well as the origin of many of the tunes from the Isle of Man in your book. The tunes are interesting and many are really quite lovely. Having the lyrics and CD with this book is such an advantage for my learning."
"The Manx culture and music is really so very interesting. I appreciate how you have incorporated historical and cultural information, as well as the origin of many of the tunes from the Isle of Man in your book. The tunes are interesting and many are really quite lovely. Having the lyrics and CD with this book is such an advantage for my learning."
From William in Oklahoma:
"You sent me a copy of Tailless Tunes II a few months ago, and I have now had the opportunity to work through it on my hammered dulcimer. It is a wonderful work that you have produced! Even more than the first book, it is a revelation of a new world of uniquely beautiful music, and it has provided me with even more music for my repertoire than the first one. You have done a great service not only for the world of dulcimer players, but also for all those interested in preserving the rich traditions of the past. I believe that your work is not only important for those who live outside of the Isle of Mann (which includes most of us!), but also for the people of that Island. You are a vital link in the preservation of authentic culture and of true beauty in the arts. Thank you for all that you do!"
"You sent me a copy of Tailless Tunes II a few months ago, and I have now had the opportunity to work through it on my hammered dulcimer. It is a wonderful work that you have produced! Even more than the first book, it is a revelation of a new world of uniquely beautiful music, and it has provided me with even more music for my repertoire than the first one. You have done a great service not only for the world of dulcimer players, but also for all those interested in preserving the rich traditions of the past. I believe that your work is not only important for those who live outside of the Isle of Mann (which includes most of us!), but also for the people of that Island. You are a vital link in the preservation of authentic culture and of true beauty in the arts. Thank you for all that you do!"
Tailless Tunes 2Purchase your copy of Tailless Tunes 2 Here...
StoreFrom Sam Edelston in Connecticut:
“Hi there, you Dulcitzer Prize-winning author, you --
It was brilliant of you to introduce the concepts one at a time, in sequence, and you explained them with just the right amount of detail. You've proven that the familiar-songs approach makes makes an incredible amount of sense.”
from Bill Collins in Delaware:
“I really like the approach you’ve taken with these arrangements, and I think the books fill a real niche."
(Bill is my Number One fan, and was kind enough to write an extensive review of these new books -- you can read the full review here.)
from Richard Ash of Folkcraft Instruments:
"You have phenomenally good books, and we are proud to carry them in our shop. Thank YOU!"
from Barbara in Georgia:
"I've really enjoyed using your book (DNA* Book 1) to teach this beginner class. Actually, even though I consider myself an intermediate progressing to advanced player, I have learned along with my class. I really like the way you share a skill and then build upon it. I think they are all amazed at how much they have learned in eight weeks."
from Barbara in Ohio:
“Carol--I already have both of these books and am...placing a second order for them because I'm giving lessons to a friend and know he will find these to be very helpful. Thank you!”
from Wayne in Ontario, Canada:
“I am SO Enjoying your DNA Books – having a blast with them and will be showing them to the group here.”
from Mary Beth in Pennsylvania:
“I just finished reading the full introduction to Book 1, strumming the chords, and beginning the first song. I know this is a book that will really help me. Thank you for writing it.”
from Ginni in Pennsylvania:
"Just wanted to thank you for the books! Because of them I am learning so much on my own ! And the CD 's are invaluable!"
from Carol in Tennessee:
"I...found the variety of music appealing as well as the way you first count out the music before playing the piece, [on the CD]."
from John in Massachusetts:
"I just finished playing along with you on the CD to Book I. I especially appreciated your counting as you became my conductor, my instructor, and fellow player. Next I can see myself wanting to compose harmonies to some of the songs. Just wanted you to know how much fun I am having. Thanks."
from Stephanie in Pennsylvania:
DNA Ditties is just full of so many familiar songs. Your instructions for playing the songs are very clear and personable. I love having the lyrics and the CD to hear how you play each song. That really helps my playing. I have been trying many of the different tunes in each of the books since they have arrived. I just can’t help myself! The tabs are so easy to read and your instructions are easy to follow. The books were a great value with your discounted holiday pricing and free shipping. I certainly appreciated that!
from Doyle in Texas (and Lagniappe Dulcimer Fete, Louisiana)
I bought the 3 DNA series. I spend about 30 minutes a day on MD, strictly for fun. (at 76 why bother with anything else?) I learn whatever I learn from each tune and move on. Anyway it is nice to turn the page and not feel as if I were trying to learn the Goldberg Variations, and maybe there is life after “bum-ditty”. Or just where in the music, (and thanks for the [standard notation]) is the idea you’re talking about, and saying just enough to trigger understanding. I’ve been “through” vol. 1 3 times and I did Grand Father’s Clock this morning from Vol. 2.. The pull off in m 8 and 16 is a very nice tonal change in color, a good reminder of a previous technique, not difficult to execute and fun to do. Your books are full of teaching wisdom and musicality. Your explanation of the quarter rest was perfect: only what you need and nothing more. You know that the rhythm is very difficult to teach with language and wisely left to listening. You also show a wisdom of the American culture in the tunes you pick, and I agree with your premises. Fingering habits are crucial for smooth executions and doing it with as little disruption as possible is very much appreciated. You are a very rare educator. So keep the books coming. There may or my not an audience out there but there is one.
from Mary and Harry in North Carolina: We have added a few of our newer beginners into our Christmas playouts once again using a lot of selections from Book 2. We are still so grateful to you for writing the beginner books and making it so easy for us to help the new players develop their skills. Without your books we never would have completed almost two entire beginner classes during the past three years.
from Cheryl in Iowa: I'm working my way through your 2nd DNA book, and I'm surprised by my progress. Your careful sequencing of songs, helpful suggestions, and the accompanying CDs are giving me a much more successful experience than what I've had with other materials. Thank you for the large amounts of effort, time, and expertise that you must have put into planning and creating your materials.
Purchase your copies of DNA* Dulcimer Ditties Here...
“Hi there, you Dulcitzer Prize-winning author, you --
It was brilliant of you to introduce the concepts one at a time, in sequence, and you explained them with just the right amount of detail. You've proven that the familiar-songs approach makes makes an incredible amount of sense.”
from Bill Collins in Delaware:
“I really like the approach you’ve taken with these arrangements, and I think the books fill a real niche."
(Bill is my Number One fan, and was kind enough to write an extensive review of these new books -- you can read the full review here.)
from Richard Ash of Folkcraft Instruments:
"You have phenomenally good books, and we are proud to carry them in our shop. Thank YOU!"
from Barbara in Georgia:
"I've really enjoyed using your book (DNA* Book 1) to teach this beginner class. Actually, even though I consider myself an intermediate progressing to advanced player, I have learned along with my class. I really like the way you share a skill and then build upon it. I think they are all amazed at how much they have learned in eight weeks."
from Barbara in Ohio:
“Carol--I already have both of these books and am...placing a second order for them because I'm giving lessons to a friend and know he will find these to be very helpful. Thank you!”
from Wayne in Ontario, Canada:
“I am SO Enjoying your DNA Books – having a blast with them and will be showing them to the group here.”
from Mary Beth in Pennsylvania:
“I just finished reading the full introduction to Book 1, strumming the chords, and beginning the first song. I know this is a book that will really help me. Thank you for writing it.”
from Ginni in Pennsylvania:
"Just wanted to thank you for the books! Because of them I am learning so much on my own ! And the CD 's are invaluable!"
from Carol in Tennessee:
"I...found the variety of music appealing as well as the way you first count out the music before playing the piece, [on the CD]."
from John in Massachusetts:
"I just finished playing along with you on the CD to Book I. I especially appreciated your counting as you became my conductor, my instructor, and fellow player. Next I can see myself wanting to compose harmonies to some of the songs. Just wanted you to know how much fun I am having. Thanks."
from Stephanie in Pennsylvania:
DNA Ditties is just full of so many familiar songs. Your instructions for playing the songs are very clear and personable. I love having the lyrics and the CD to hear how you play each song. That really helps my playing. I have been trying many of the different tunes in each of the books since they have arrived. I just can’t help myself! The tabs are so easy to read and your instructions are easy to follow. The books were a great value with your discounted holiday pricing and free shipping. I certainly appreciated that!
from Doyle in Texas (and Lagniappe Dulcimer Fete, Louisiana)
I bought the 3 DNA series. I spend about 30 minutes a day on MD, strictly for fun. (at 76 why bother with anything else?) I learn whatever I learn from each tune and move on. Anyway it is nice to turn the page and not feel as if I were trying to learn the Goldberg Variations, and maybe there is life after “bum-ditty”. Or just where in the music, (and thanks for the [standard notation]) is the idea you’re talking about, and saying just enough to trigger understanding. I’ve been “through” vol. 1 3 times and I did Grand Father’s Clock this morning from Vol. 2.. The pull off in m 8 and 16 is a very nice tonal change in color, a good reminder of a previous technique, not difficult to execute and fun to do. Your books are full of teaching wisdom and musicality. Your explanation of the quarter rest was perfect: only what you need and nothing more. You know that the rhythm is very difficult to teach with language and wisely left to listening. You also show a wisdom of the American culture in the tunes you pick, and I agree with your premises. Fingering habits are crucial for smooth executions and doing it with as little disruption as possible is very much appreciated. You are a very rare educator. So keep the books coming. There may or my not an audience out there but there is one.
from Mary and Harry in North Carolina: We have added a few of our newer beginners into our Christmas playouts once again using a lot of selections from Book 2. We are still so grateful to you for writing the beginner books and making it so easy for us to help the new players develop their skills. Without your books we never would have completed almost two entire beginner classes during the past three years.
from Cheryl in Iowa: I'm working my way through your 2nd DNA book, and I'm surprised by my progress. Your careful sequencing of songs, helpful suggestions, and the accompanying CDs are giving me a much more successful experience than what I've had with other materials. Thank you for the large amounts of effort, time, and expertise that you must have put into planning and creating your materials.
Purchase your copies of DNA* Dulcimer Ditties Here...
From Bill Collins in Delaware:
Carol's book, 'Tailless Tunes,' provides dulcimer players with a rich collection of this fabulous Manx music. She has immersed herself deeply in the material, conducted extensive research on the the Isle of Man itself, and done a great musical service by making these gorgeous melodies available in lovely arrangements for mountain dulcimer, along with instructive background notes. Many of the tunes have an unworldly beauty; others are spritely jigs. All deserve to be well known.
From William in Oklahoma:
I had been exposed to Celtic music from Ireland, Brittany, Wales, Scotland and the far islands north of Scotland, but when I heard the music from the Isle of Man it immediately impressed me as the most beautiful of all. It is said that Charles Guard first introduced Manx music to the outside world in 1991 with his publication of Manx Music for the Irish Harp. The one who has done the most to introduce Manx music to the dulcimer is a woman from North America named Carol Walker. The book she produced [has provided] more joy...than any book of music I have ever owned. If you don’t have it, you must get it!
From Dr. Breesha Maddrell,
Manx Music Development Officer,
Manx Heritage Foundation
First of all let me congratulate you on the physical products -- the book and CD are great! We're absolutely delighted that you're spreading the word about Manx music with such great arrangements.
From Peter Candela in New York
Your book and CD are beautiful through and through. From the art work, quality of paper, notation, stories, layout, quality of recording, to the whole thread through of Dulcie, the Manx cat. It's joy to have, listen and to play.
From Judith Giddings in Pennsylvania
It is clear that this has been a labor of love for you and that shows in the quality of both the book and the CD.
Thank you so much for sharing your work as a Manx Song Catcher with the dulcimer world. We are richer for it!!
From Rebecca Hoffman in Idaho:
I think you have a winner here! Lots of good wishes being sent your way, Carol.
Carol's book, 'Tailless Tunes,' provides dulcimer players with a rich collection of this fabulous Manx music. She has immersed herself deeply in the material, conducted extensive research on the the Isle of Man itself, and done a great musical service by making these gorgeous melodies available in lovely arrangements for mountain dulcimer, along with instructive background notes. Many of the tunes have an unworldly beauty; others are spritely jigs. All deserve to be well known.
From William in Oklahoma:
I had been exposed to Celtic music from Ireland, Brittany, Wales, Scotland and the far islands north of Scotland, but when I heard the music from the Isle of Man it immediately impressed me as the most beautiful of all. It is said that Charles Guard first introduced Manx music to the outside world in 1991 with his publication of Manx Music for the Irish Harp. The one who has done the most to introduce Manx music to the dulcimer is a woman from North America named Carol Walker. The book she produced [has provided] more joy...than any book of music I have ever owned. If you don’t have it, you must get it!
From Dr. Breesha Maddrell,
Manx Music Development Officer,
Manx Heritage Foundation
First of all let me congratulate you on the physical products -- the book and CD are great! We're absolutely delighted that you're spreading the word about Manx music with such great arrangements.
From Peter Candela in New York
Your book and CD are beautiful through and through. From the art work, quality of paper, notation, stories, layout, quality of recording, to the whole thread through of Dulcie, the Manx cat. It's joy to have, listen and to play.
From Judith Giddings in Pennsylvania
It is clear that this has been a labor of love for you and that shows in the quality of both the book and the CD.
Thank you so much for sharing your work as a Manx Song Catcher with the dulcimer world. We are richer for it!!
From Rebecca Hoffman in Idaho:
I think you have a winner here! Lots of good wishes being sent your way, Carol.
From Dewey Parker in Texas:
I have never heard anyone coax an instrument to open its soul the way I heard her do on the mountain dulcimer. Under the caress of her fingers, it is a living thing that laughs and cries and whispers secrets. One might expect that, if she moved the microphone very close, one could hear it breathing.
From Sam Edelston in Connecticut:
"Rather than being just a dulcimer playing through a bunch of usual-sounding tunes, this was ensemble playing (through the miracle of overdubbing) in the mold of Neal Hellman or Maggie Sansone. And nice arrangements. Congratulations! Well done!"
From Bill Collins in Delaware:
"This music, as you've presented it so professionally and lovingly, deserves a very wide audience indeed. The 'music box' sound of your harp is luscious on the Arrange y Chlean arrangement -- Listening to your dulcimer solos, I was struck by how they remind me of Larkin Bryant Cohen's sound and approach -- and in my mind, there's no higher praise I could offer. Congratulations on a great piece of work, and thanks for the Manx!
From Liz Gordon in Connecticut:
Carol, I can't thank you enough for your enchanting CD. Had to play it as soon as I got home and I love every note. The whole package is an absolute delight: concept, packaging, notes, program and, of course, your totally endearing music.
From Ira Perlman in New York:
I think it is totally unfair that this music [has been] kept in hiding. It needs to be presented. As an old folkie I have to admit I knew nothing about any music on the Isle of Man let alone that it had a rich music tradition separate from the rest of the UK.
Purchase your copies of Tailless Tunes and Alas! The Horse Is Gone Here
I have never heard anyone coax an instrument to open its soul the way I heard her do on the mountain dulcimer. Under the caress of her fingers, it is a living thing that laughs and cries and whispers secrets. One might expect that, if she moved the microphone very close, one could hear it breathing.
From Sam Edelston in Connecticut:
"Rather than being just a dulcimer playing through a bunch of usual-sounding tunes, this was ensemble playing (through the miracle of overdubbing) in the mold of Neal Hellman or Maggie Sansone. And nice arrangements. Congratulations! Well done!"
From Bill Collins in Delaware:
"This music, as you've presented it so professionally and lovingly, deserves a very wide audience indeed. The 'music box' sound of your harp is luscious on the Arrange y Chlean arrangement -- Listening to your dulcimer solos, I was struck by how they remind me of Larkin Bryant Cohen's sound and approach -- and in my mind, there's no higher praise I could offer. Congratulations on a great piece of work, and thanks for the Manx!
From Liz Gordon in Connecticut:
Carol, I can't thank you enough for your enchanting CD. Had to play it as soon as I got home and I love every note. The whole package is an absolute delight: concept, packaging, notes, program and, of course, your totally endearing music.
From Ira Perlman in New York:
I think it is totally unfair that this music [has been] kept in hiding. It needs to be presented. As an old folkie I have to admit I knew nothing about any music on the Isle of Man let alone that it had a rich music tradition separate from the rest of the UK.
Purchase your copies of Tailless Tunes and Alas! The Horse Is Gone Here
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