Appalachian dulcimer

The Appalachian dulcimer is a folk musical instrument native to the United States. It is a type of zither, characterized by a narrow, fretted fingerboard running along its length. Typically, it has three to five metal strings. The player strums the strings with a small stick or quill while using the left hand to fret the strings, creating the melody. The Appalachian dulcimer is a distinct variation of the broader category of dulcimers, which are stringed instruments played by striking the strings with small hammers. The term "Appalachian dulcimer" was first used in 1953.12