Dulcimer

A dulcimer is a type of musical string instrument. It is a variety of zither. Among its forms are:

• Hammered dulcimer, free-standing, frequently trapezoidal in shape, with many strings struck by handheld "hammers". This type of instrument is found in many cultures, which have their own name for the instrument.
• Fretted, three or four strings, generally played on the lap by strumming; including
  • Appalachian dulcimer, a folk instrument used in the Appalachian region of the U.S.
  • Banjo dulcimer, with banjo-like resonating membrane
  • Resonator dulcimer, with inset conical resonator
• Other
  • Bowed dulcimer, teardrop-shaped and played upright with a bow
  • Electric dulcimer, various types of dulcimer which use a pickup to amplify the sound

Early Belgian Dulcimer (or Hackebrett) from the Hans Adler collection.