A trapezoidal wooden frame fitted with multiple gut strings, played by striking the strings with small hammers or mallets. The sweet, chiming voice carries a wistful, haunting quality; skilled players achieve rapid, flowing passages by alternating hammers. Dulcimers are favored by skilled minstrels, court musicians, and temple choirs seeking a delicate, resonant voice for solemn or joyful occasions.
Dulcimer
Trapezoidal frame with gut strings struck by hammers; sweet, haunting chiming voice.