Sue has been sharing her enthusiasm for the hammered dulcimer by teaching others how to play it since 2006. She offers private hammered dulcimer lessons out of her home in Pittsboro, NC. She occasionally offers small group lessons and is available to teach workshops by special request. She works with students of all ages, at all skill levels. Her intention is to help students grow into well-rounded musicians, weaving the practice of technical skills, arranging ideas, and music theory into each lesson. Regardless of your musical background, Sue will work with you to help you achieve your musical goals.
...She has been endlessly patient with me, yet keeps pushing me so that I find I am actually learning music theory and other things that I have resisted for years. Plus, I'm playing songs and having a fantastic time...
~ Lynn, student
Some questions you might have about lessons:
Is the hammered dulcimer difficult to learn?
All new skills require some work. The good news is, the sweet sounds of the hammered dulcimer are almost immediately accessible to the beginning player. Most students are able to hammer out simple tunes with which they have some familiarity. The skills needed to take it to the next level, however, require more study and practice. The key to success is careful instruction in the beginning and a commitment by the student to daily practice, even if it's only 15 - 20 minutes per day. Of course, improvement is directly related to practice time!
What if I don't have an instrument?
Many students are reluctant to invest in an instrument before they know for sure they will be able and willing to continue playing it. Sue has a limited number of rental instruments available for students at the cost of $10 per month. You may rent as long as necessary.
What will lessons cost?
Private lessons are $50 per hour. Most students opt for an hour-long lesson, but you may choose a shorter or longer period of time. A minimum of 45 minutes ($40) is recommended. Students coming from a distance may opt for a 1 1/2-hour or 2-hour lesson.
How often will I have to come for a lesson?
Lessons may be scheduled as frequently as your time and budget allow. Most students take a lesson once a week or once every other week. Some students, working at a more advanced level or coming from a distance, may opt to take a lesson once every 4-6 weeks. Sue will work with your needs and goals to come up with a lesson schedule.
Where is Sue located?
Sue's home is located in Pittsboro, NC, just 2 miles from the center of town, with easy access off Hwy 64 by-pass. Pittsboro is convenient to many places in the Piedmont... 13 miles south of Chapel Hill, 19 miles north of Sanford, 33 miles east of Raleigh, 11 miles west of Siler City.
When can I start?
You know you want to play this instrument! Why not start today?
Contact Sue today to schedule your first lesson.
