The plucked dulcimer’s unique sound sings of its Appalachian origins. It is known by many names, including the Appalachian dulcimer, mountain dulcimer, lap dulcimer, Kentucky dulcimer, American dulcimer, and even the hog fiddle! Although it is officially considered a member of the zither family, the dulcimer’s development of a modally fretted fingerboard and its rich American folk tradition set it apart from its zither family lineage. While the dulcimer can be fully chorded, it is also played as a drone instrument, creating a sound similar to bagpipes. The dulcimer is growing in popularity, as it is relatively simple to learn and play, and functions well as a vocal accompaniment, a solo instrument, or a group member.