A Merry Scottish Christmas: Festive Scottish Music for Hammered Dulcimer

As the festive season approaches, the air fills with the enchanting melodies of Christmas music. While many associate Christmas carols and hymns with the festive period, there is a lesser-known treasure trove of Scottish Christmas music that deserves to be celebrated and enjoyed.

A Scottish Christmas for Hammered Dulcimer

by Reid Chancellor

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23101 KB
Print length	:	73 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	64 pages
Item Weight	:	6.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.15 x 11 inches

FREE

One instrument that holds a special place in Scottish Christmas traditions is the hammered dulcimer. With its ethereal and evocative sound, the hammered dulcimer provides an enchanting accompaniment to the festive songs of Scotland.

Origins of Scottish Christmas Music

The origins of Scottish Christmas music can be traced back to the Middle Ages. During this time, traveling musicians known as "waits" would perform carols and seasonal songs in the streets and at gatherings. These songs often drew inspiration from religious traditions, with lyrics that celebrated the birth of Jesus and the Christmas story.

Over time, Scottish Christmas music evolved to incorporate a blend of traditional folk tunes and more contemporary compositions. The influence of the Celtic harp can be heard in many of these melodies, creating a distinctively Scottish sound that captures the spirit of the season.

The Hammered Dulcimer in Scottish Christmas Music

The hammered dulcimer is a versatile instrument that has been used in Scottish music for centuries. Its trapezoidal shape and multiple strings allow for a range of expressive techniques, making it an ideal choice for accompanying Christmas songs.

The hammered dulcimer's unique sound adds an enchanting layer to Scottish Christmas music. The shimmering resonance of the strings creates a sense of warmth and nostalgia, evoking the cozy atmosphere of a traditional Scottish Christmas.

Festive Scottish Christmas Repertoire

The repertoire of Scottish Christmas music for hammered dulcimer is rich and varied, encompassing traditional carols, folk songs, and contemporary compositions.

Some of the most popular traditional carols include:

• "The First Noel"
• "Silent Night"
• "O Holy Night"
• "Good King Wenceslas"
• "We Three Kings of Orient Are"

In addition to carols, the hammered dulcimer also lends itself well to Scottish folk tunes with Christmas themes. These tunes often feature lively rhythms and enchanting melodies, adding an upbeat touch to the festive season.

Contemporary Scottish composers have also contributed to the repertoire of Christmas music for hammered dulcimer. These compositions often blend traditional elements with modern harmonies, creating a fresh and innovative take on the festive season.

Playing Hammered Dulcimer Christmas Music

If you are interested in playing hammered dulcimer Christmas music, there are several resources available to help you get started.

Online tutorials: Numerous online tutorials provide step-by-step instructions on how to play basic hammered dulcimer techniques. These tutorials can help you develop the skills necessary to play Christmas songs.

Instruction books: There are also several instruction books available that focus specifically on playing hammered dulcimer Christmas music. These books typically include sheet music, tablature, and instructional materials.

Teachers and workshops: If you prefer to learn in person, you can search for hammered dulcimer teachers or workshops in your area. These professionals can provide personalized guidance and support as you develop your skills.

Scottish Christmas Albums

Several Scottish musicians have recorded albums of Christmas music for hammered dulcimer. These albums provide a delightful way to immerse yourself in the festive sounds of Scotland.

Some recommended albums include:

• "A Scottish Christmas" by Alison Kinnaird
• "Christmas on the Dulcimer" by Bruce MacGregor
• "A Highland Christmas" by Hamish Moore
• "Celtic Christmas on the Hammered Dulcimer" by Pat Ballantyne
• "A Winter's Night" by Mairi Campbell

Listening to these albums is a wonderful way to experience the rich and enchanting tradition of Scottish Christmas music for hammered dulcimer.

Scottish Christmas Culture

Scottish Christmas traditions are steeped in a rich heritage and deep-rooted beliefs. Christmas in Scotland is a time for family gatherings, festive feasts, and warm hospitality.

Some of the most cherished Scottish Christmas traditions include:

• Hogmanay: The Scottish New Year's celebration, which begins on December 31st and lasts until January 2nd.
• Singing Christmas carols: Caroling is a popular tradition in Scotland, with groups of people gathering to sing festive songs throughout the Christmas season.
• Traditional Scottish Christmas foods: Some of the most popular Christmas dishes in Scotland include roast turkey, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and Christmas pudding.
• Wassailing: A festive tradition that involves singing and toasting the health and prosperity of fruit trees and crops.

By embracing Scottish Christmas traditions and enjoying the enchanting melodies of Scottish Christmas music for hammered dulcimer, we can truly immerse ourselves in the festive spirit of Scotland.

I wish you a merry and magical Scottish Christmas filled with warmth, joy, and the enchanting melodies of the hammered dulcimer.

Please feel free to comment below if you have any questions, comments, or your own experiences with Scottish Christmas music.

A Scottish Christmas for Hammered Dulcimer

by Reid Chancellor

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23101 KB
Print length	:	73 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	64 pages
Item Weight	:	6.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.15 x 11 inches

FREE