Joellen Lapidus

Joellen Lapidus is one of the pioneers of contemporary mountain dulcimer playing, building, songwriting, and teaching. She is the author of the classic dulcimer instruction book, LAPIDUS ON DULCIMER 2 (1978 and 2010), which was the first dulcimer instruction book to feature both traditional and contemporary styles.

As a dulcimer builder, her innovative shapes and exquisite inlay work influenced many of the dulcimer builders of the 70's and 80's. The shapes of her instruments were sensual and flowing with curves and carvings of soaring birds, rather than the traditional themes of hearts and violin scrolls. She wanted to make the most beautiful instruments she could imagine. Joni Mitchell, David Crosby, Jackson Brown, Wendy Waldman, Garth Hudson and Harry Stiles all bought her instruments

Joellen performs traditional and non-traditional dulcimer music. She equally loves the old Appalachian tunes, Klezmer, Middle Eastern, Indian music, jazz and pop. She combines it all in her style. Her music is exuberant, fierce and tender.

Her recordings include, “Joellen Lapidus in Concert (2004)”, and “Dulcimer Music for the Pelican Ballet(20140": a feast of dulcimer styles and moods accompanied by violin, viola, spoons, bass and jazz trumpet. You can see her instruments and hear her music at: www.lapidusmusic.com