AllMovie

John McCutcheon draws upon his extensive musical experience and expertise while teaching students how to play the hammer dulcimer on this video. McCutcheon has so greatly impressed other musicians that even Johnny Cash once said that he is the most impressive instrumentalist that Cash had ever heard. As the tape progresses, basic skills are covered, including how to set up and tune the instrument properly. Students are also shown how to find harmony notes and employ such special techniques as rolls and flams. It should be easy for most beginners to follow along since numerous camera close-ups capture McCutcheon's detailed demonstrations.