The Hammer Dulcimer
The origins of this instrument are obscure; several versions of it exist in many different musical cultures, notably in the Arab world. It consists of an open trapezium-shaped sounding board strung with piano wire or similar material; the 'hammers' are generally two lengths of wood or wire with a spoon-shaped head sometimes wrapped in wool. These are held in the hand and used to strike the appropriate string-course. The most renowned player in recent years was the late John Rea of Glenarm, Co. Antrim. The hammer dulcimer can sometimes sound strange when played with other instruments, or, for that matter, by itself; since it has no damping mechanism, notes will be sustained beyond their useful duration, and interfere with the notes that are actually struck at any given time. Derek Bell of the Chieftains has latterly brought the instrument to the attention of an uncomprehending public, calling it a 'tiompan' (an obscure and conjectural medieval Irish instrument) which in all likelihood it is not.