A Mel Bay Publications, Inc. Webzine
June 2007 · Bimonthly
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In this issue: Leo Kretzner on Rhythm: Part 1 | Gary Owen for Hammered Dulcimer | Durme for Hammered Dulcimer | When Johnny Comes Marching Home for Mountain Dulcimer
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Gary Owenfrom Hammered Dulcimer Treasury of Tunesby Sally Hawley "Gary Owen" or "Garryowen" is an old Irish quick-step. In 1867 it was adopted by the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment as its official air. It has become the most famous of all regimental marches in the Army, and was played for the charge at Custer's Last Stand. "Gary Owen" is just one of over 250 traditional pieces from The Hammered Dulcimer Treasury of Tunes. Playing Tips:MORDENT:
Holding hammer loosely, strike strings with a strong stroke allowing the hammer to bounce 3-4 times, according to the timing allotment. GRACE NOTE:
A quick, softer, higher note played before the actual note, used often in Scottish and Irish Music. Use either right or left hammer for light tap on higher note, then with alternate hammer, strike the actual note. MORDENT/SLASH:
Using both left and right hammers, alternate playing the two notes in tremolo fashion for the timing length of the note. 
 About the Author Sally (Hunter) Hawley, a multi-talented musician and artist, has been involved in music for a lifetime. Growing up during the depression years in a small town in southern Indiana, the daughter of a music teacher and barbershop quartet singer, music was an integral part of home entertainment. During the 1960s, after transferring with her husband and family to West Virginia, she first heard the enchanting sounds of the mountain and hammered dulcimers, and learned to play from area old-time musicians. She has become an accomplished player with a wide repertoire, and has traveled cross the country performing at fairs and special events, and studying as well as teaching at dulcimer festivals. Through the yeas, Sally has collected hundreds of traditional tunes, and began documenting her arrangements in standard notation for her students, hoping to help preserve this legacy of music for the enjoyment of future generations. Four recordings of Sally's traditional music are available: Heirlooms & Keepsakes, Something Old and Something New, Timeless Treasures, and Perennial Pleasures. In addition there is a CD with the "Presby Pickers," a band she performs with, titled "The Spirit of the Mountains." Contact Hawley Studios at dulcisally2@aol.com [ top ]
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