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The Evolution of the Piano: The Hammered Dulcimer

Writer's picture: Rachel BeardRachel Beard

The origins of the hammered dulcimer— a predecessor of the piano—are in the ancient Near East. Such instruments have existed there for around 5000 years. Arabs took it to Europe around the 12th century, and then it appeared later in the Far East around the 1700s.


The dulcimer is a trapezoid-shaped board with strings stretched over it. A player holds it across the lap and hits the strings with two small hammers. Its sound is similar to a harp and has a wide range of dynamics. Once tuning it is understood, it can be easily played by ear.


Dulcimers disappeared long ago from Western classical music. Yet modern versions are still found in such places as some American folk music, Hungarian gypsy music, and traditional Asian music. They are widely played under different names and slightly different versions elsewhere across the world.


Appalachian "Hog Fiddle" Dulcimer

Greek "Santouri" Dulcimer

Chinese "Yangqin" Dulcimer

Swedish "Hackbrade" Dulcimer

Mexican "Salterio Mexicano" Dulcimer

Indian "Santoor" Dulcimer


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