Dulcimerica with Bing Futch: Recent Episodes
Bing Futch
Since 2007, Americana singer/songwriter Bing Futch has hosted this program focused on the Appalachian mountain dulcimer. Features workshops, song demos, travelogs, interviews and road trips into the heart of Dulcimerica!
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Going the next step, Bing writes a longer, more complex melody using open and closed cadences, demonstrating how to play “keep away” with the key. Download the exercise material from: https://www.patreon.com/posts/115503512
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Bing takes the melody from the last episode and harmonizes it using cadences, while also going a step further into song arranging options. Download the exercise resources at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/115095568
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Bing demonstrates the use of melodic cadences with the beginnings of a tune on the mountain dulcimer. Download the exercise from this episode for free at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/114658415
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The finale, and encore, from Bing's set at the Old Jail in Statesville, North Carolina for Piedmont Folkways, presented by the Iredell Arts Council. After ending his set with “Don't Stop Believing”, Bing performs “My Heart Will Go On”, using the guitar synthesizer to add live strings.
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Bing describes and demonstrates four types of musical cadences for tune writing, using melodies and harmonies on the mountain dulcimer.
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Bing and Abby the Spoon Lady get after some “Old Joe Clark” at the 52nd Walnut Valley Festival after they perform onstage during the fest.
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Bing arrives in Winfield, Kansas for the 52nd Walnut Valley Festival and immediately dives into the music, and the lifestyle. Features a premiere performance of “Going To Winfield”, with Kara Barnard and Troy Johnson.
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An excerpt from the September session of The Ionian Institute, a free monthly online workshop available through Bing Futch's Patreon (which is free to join at www.Patreon.com/BingFutch Basic note durations are covered, along with a special practice cadence for developing your strum.
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Garryowen Irish Pub co- owner Joanne McCready captured this cel phone footage of Bing jamming U2's “With Or Without You” on mountain dulcimer with Gerry Muldoon, a longtime friend of Kevin McCready's from Ireland, on cajon.
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Back home from summer tour, Bing shares a mountain dulcimer exercise that he taught over the summer using melodies and chords. The basic chord shapes in DAD are covered, and “I Think We're Alone Now” makes a cameo.
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Bing's encore from the July 11th show at Bob's Barn Jamborees in Lake Odessa, Michigan. This is “Hallelujah” on mountain dulcimer. Bob Warner, owner of Bob's Barn Jams, also makes an appearance. Check out Bob's YouTube Channel at: youtube.com/BobWarnerBarn
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Bing's actual opening song from the July 11th show at Bob's Barn Jamborees in Lake Odessa, Michigan. This is “The Ballad of John Henry” on mountain dulcimer. This month's episodes have all been from the livestream recording.
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Bing's closing number from the July 11th show at Bob's Barn Jamborees in Lake Odessa, Michigan. This is “Promentory” from “The Last of the Mohicans” with mountain dulcimer and looper.
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More from the Bob's Barn Jamborees show in Lake Odessa, Michigan, on July 11th. Bing performs his original song, “Birds of a Feather”, on mountain dulcimer. Natch!
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On July 11th at Bob's Barn Jamborees in Lake Odessa, Michigan, Bing performs three original blues songs; "The Flip Side", "That's What You Done To Me", and "Red Headed Lover."
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Picking up where the last episode left off, Bing continues a grand circle tour of Michigan state, including the Grand Traverse Bay, before winding up in Lake Odessa at Bob's Barn Jamborees for M.O.D.E. Workshops and a concert.
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From a house concert in Columbus, Ohio to Mackinac Island, Michigan, this episode takes a look at Bing's adventures on summer tour in the first part of July. Includes a live rendition of “Hallelujah” and “Can't Help Falling In Love”.
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From Sharonville, Ohio, Bing takes us inside the American Folk Music School & National Mountain Dulcimer Museum with director Vickey Sasser.
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Bing offers a brief glimpse into his time at Kentucky Music Week through video and music, including a performance of “ADHD Blues” on mountain dulcimer.
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Back at White Acres Campground, Bing brings some of his teachings from Kentucky Music Week in an episode focused on rhythms and strum-building for songs. A demo of a 3-measure cadence for muscle memory, the palm mute, and turning drums into strums gets applied to “Boil Dem Cabbage Down”
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Bing takes a no-frills approach to getting started with mountain dulcimer. Here he demonstrates how to 1) figure out tunes you know, 2) make up your own tunes, 3) noodle around, all after a quick tutorial on how to play the drone melody style. A great beginners resource, or for the passing curious.
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Bing arrives at Folkcraft Instruments in Woodburn, Indiana, and gets a behind-the-scenes look at production of the new DulciVox mountain dulcimers. He also takes his new DulciVox Pro for a test-drive through some fiddle tunes, O'Carolan, and Meatloaf.
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Arriving at his first tour stop, Bing writes a new tune inspired by the Gebhard Woods Dulcimer & Traditional Music Festival, taking place this weekend at Goold Park in Morris, Illinois (That's June 8th and 9th for you in the present.)
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One last bit of music from Mountain Dulcimer in the Band (Book 8) featuring a walk-through of “Hard Times” by Stephen Foster and some fancy interlude chords.
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Another snippet of the May 8th edition of Mountain Dulcimer in the JAM!, a monthly online workshop/jam sprung from the pages of the tune-and-backing-track series, Mountain Dulcimer in the Band. Today's episode features “Wild Mountain Thyme” in the style of Dire Straits!
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Another snippet of the May 8th edition of Mountain Dulcimer in the JAM!, a monthly online workshop/jam sprung from the pages of the tune-and-backing-track series, Mountain Dulcimer in the Band. Today's episode features “Wild Mountain Thyme” in the style of Dire Straits!
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Episode 700 shares a snippet of the May 8th edition of Mountain Dulcimer in the JAM!, a monthly online workshop/jam sprung from the pages of the tune-and-backing-track series, Mountain Dulcimer in the Band. With Book 8 newly released, Bing walks through "Keep on the Sunny Side", and then sets everyone loose on the backing track. Play along!
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Continuing with the Stark Session series, featuring the Folkcraft Instruments DulciVox mountain dulcimer, Bing works up “Can't Help Falling In Love” from melody to full arrangement with chords and rhythm.
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In a continuing series of episodes featuring The Stark Sessions, Bing deconstructs “Lean On Me”, distilling it to the melody, then adding harmony and support. He is playing the third prototype of the Folkcraft Instruments DulciVox, which is now officially available to order from Folkcraft.com
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In a continuing series of episodes featuring The Stark Sessions, Bing deconstructs “Lean On Me”, distilling it to the melody, then adding harmony and support. He is playing the third prototype of the Folkcraft Instruments DulciVox, which is now officially available to order from Folkcraft.com
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In a continuing series of episodes featuring The Stark Sessions, Bing deconstructs “Georgia On My Mind”, distilling it to the melody, then adding harmony and support. He is playing the third prototype of the Folkcraft Instruments DulciVox, which is now officially available to order from Folkcraft.com
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Bing debuts a new arrangement of the Georgia State Song, “Georgia On My Mind”, created and workshopped at the first Expedition Dulcimer at Stone Mountain Manor in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Here, a collection of visuals and moments from the week. Www.ExpeditionDulcimer.com For more info
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Another livestreamed workshop from an rv in a North Carolina strip mall parking lot. Bing introduces a series called Deep Track, which takes an immersive approach to study. This episode is for chromatic mountain dulcimer tuned DAD – and the study is in the key of F major, going over the I, IV, and V chords in familiar shapes. Attend workshops for free at www.Patreon.com/BingFutch
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Bing livestreams The Ionian Institute from his rv in a North Carolina strip mall parking lot. Attend workshops for free at www.Patreon.com/BingFutch
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“Found At Sea” is a new tune that Bing composed and recorded on March 8th, inspired by the 2024 Castaway Music Cruise. Here, it provides the soundtrack for a glimpse at the seafaring fun aboard the Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas. Www.CastawayMusicCruise.com
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A glimpse at the music and merriment that took place at the 10th Annual Florida Gulf Coast Dulcimer Retreat in Homosassa Springs, Florida. GulfCoastDulcimer.com
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A new tune inspired by Bing's oldest cat, Simba. Includes introductions to all five rescued felines at Casa de Milagro, and a tribute to Simba's BFF, Roscoe, who left for Rainbow Bridge in January.
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The Stark Sessions are bare-bones song studies shot in high contrast black and white with no dialogue, allowing viewers to focus on the tune at hand. For this session, the song, “Colored Aristocracy”, is broken down into melody, drone melody and then chords are added along with a backing track.
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Bing teaches the tune “Fly Around My Pretty Little Miss” on mountain dulcimer in the key of D, tuned DAD, and then cranks up the backing tracks to audition the song for “Mountain Dulcimer in the Band (Book 8)”. Play along with the band and Bing, plus download tracks at http://www.Patreon.com/BingFutch
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Bing teaches the tune “Shaving a Dead Man” on a Folkcraft Instruments LAP-JO hybrid mountain dulcimer/banjo. Also, a sneak preview of “Mountain Dulcimer in the Band (Book 8)”, and Bing receives a surprise phone call mid-shoot. Download tablature and backing tracks from Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/posts/98044374
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A full-blown music video for Bing's new song, “ChatGPT (Been Very Very Good To Me).” It started January 20th with Bing singing the chorus melody for fun, and ended up two weeks later as both a new single, and his first official music video!
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8 years ago this week, Bing won the “Best Solo Guitar” award at the 32nd Annual International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee. This episode features recently discovered footage of his finals set at The Orpheum Theater, along with the announcement of his win at the awards ceremony, which had somehow not been included in episode 303.
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For all the mountain dulcimer players using amplifiers and mixers, this episode is for you! And everyone else who would like a front-row seat to the basics of equalization. This is just a small portion of the full 90-minute free workshop “Putting it into Gear: Equalization” - join for free and take the next class: Patreon.com/BingFutch
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A jam-packed 6-minutes that offers insight on how to choose strings for your mountain dulcimer using an Instrument String Tension Calculator like this one right here: https://chordgen.parmakis.co.uk/tensiontool.php
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The 17th season of Dulcimerica launches with a big episode featuring 8 new online workshop series available through Bing's Patreon. Here, Bing shares video from each of the new series, which can be attended for free by joining Bing's Patreon community (also free!) Get hooked up at: Patreon.com/BingFutch
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Wrapping the 2023 season, Bing celebrates the simplicity and joy of being home with a look around Casa de Milagro, and the recording of a new track called, “Saved From the Memory Hole.”
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Kicking off the Christmas 2023 weekend with a big holiday spirit, Bing performs his new arrangement of “Jingle Bell Rock” on the mountain dulcimer along with a backing track. The tablature and tracks are a free download away at Patreon.com/BingFutch!
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Bing runs through a new tune called “Fine Corduroy Jacket”, and is visited by Abraham Delacey Giuseppe Casey Thomas O'Malley the Alley Cat.
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Bing shoots a casual episode where he cleans up and re-strings a couple of Folkcraft Instruments mountain dulcimers.
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Bing performs “The Ballad of John Henry” on mountain dulcimer at Coffee Talk in Melrose, Florida.
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A flow of music from the 2023 Stephen Foster Dulcimer Retreat, including performances by instructors, Tina Bergmann, Jessica Comeau, Laurie Alsobrook, Sally Anderson, and Bing Futch.
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Scenes from the 2023 Stephen Foster Dulcimer Retreat, including a performance by Laurie Alsobrook's class inside the carillon tower, and also Bing performs “ADHD Blues.”
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In this excerpt from the inaugural session of The Songwriter's Sandbox", Bing introduces his cat, Olivia, before going into a music theory deep-dive that focuses on the seven notes of the scale, and how to build the seven chords in each key. Join Bing's Patreon for free to see the next workshop live! http://www.patreon.com/bingfutch
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This week's episode features the first 9 minutes of Bing's “The Music of the Night” workshop, which took place August 31st. The full 2-hour video is available on Patreon. Join for free with limited access by visiting http://www.Patreon.com/BingFutch
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In the last episode before fall tour begins, Bing introduces the right-hand palm mute, and demonstrates just a few of its many uses in different styles and approaches on the mountain dulcimer.
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Wrapping up a trio of episodes for beginner level players, or those seeking a refresh on fundamentals, Bing introduces barre chords with an exercise in strumming, moving chords, and playing melody all at once.
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Continuing with a recap of last week's rhythm focus, Bing introduces something new into the mix by teaching three chords on mountain dulcimer and then moving them around with strums for each time signature. Also, an exercise demonstration for quarter, eighth and sixteenth note mastery.
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This is a beginner-level episode that focuses on strumming in three different time signatures. Includes demonstrations, and a look at how accents change the feel of a groove.
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A simple musical tribute to Paul Reubens, who passed away on July 30th, 2023.
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Bing wraps the spring/summer tour with an expansive look at some of the places and events along the route.
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A random wandering through the ODPC Funfest in Evart, Michigan.
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While camped at the ODPC Funfest in Evart, Michigan, Bing takes delivery on two mini-synthesizers for his folktronica set up and connects them to the Circuit Tracks. This is a test-run improvisation recorded in his motorhome on the evening of July 13th, 2023.
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Lil' Rev calls Bing, Sam Edelston, and Stephen Seifert on stage to join him on an original composition, “Jugband Serenade.” Recorded at Kentucky Music Week in Shepherdsville, Kentucky on June 29th, 2023.
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With only a small window in which to make it happen, Bing pulls on his mud boots and hikes a bunch of gear up to a Native American cave shelter on the Salt River in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. The song of the moment: “Hallellujah.”
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From the Gebhard Woods Dulcimer and Traditional Music Festival in Morris, Illinois. Bing joins Rick Thum for the finale of his set as they play “John Stinson's #2” and “Hangman's Reel.”
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From the Gebhard Woods Dulcimer and Traditional Music Festival in Morris, Illinois. Bing reunites with Kara Barnard, the reigning National Mountain Dulcimer Champion, in an on-stage performance that echoes their initial meeting over 15 years ago (Episode 90.) https://youtu.be/r0Os8XOfIVg
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While at the Walmart Resort in Joliet, Illinois, Bing performs “Sweet Home Chicago” in the parking lot.
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Fancy a frolic? Bing performs “Faery Faithe in Fluidity” on his Folkcraft Instruments custom mountain dulcimer, “Oakie.”
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An episode featuring footage from Bing's 2023 Remain Seated Please Tour. The first single from the album, “State & County Roads”, is featured here along with some of the incredible places the tour has gone.
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Bing plays his new Terry McCafferty “Seifert Model” mountain dulcimer with another improvisation. His usual stomp boxes have been replaced with a Roland GR-55 Guitar Synthesizer, and the Line 6 Helix Effects Processor and Modeler.
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Bing plays his new Terry McCafferty “Seifert Model” mountain dulcimer with an improvisation. His usual stomp boxes have been replaced with a Roland GR-55 Guitar Synthesizer, and the Line 6 Helix Effects Processor and Modeler.
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Bing takes an immersive trip back in time with a visit to The Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado; the site where Manitou recorded their one and only album, “In the Garden of the Gods.” Bing performs one of the tracks in the park, while sharing rare footage of the group recording “Boy on Rock.”
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Closing out a trio of videos from the John C. Campbell Folk School, Bing's “Continuing Dulcimer” class earns a much-deserved encore, for which they are well-prepared.
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Again from the John C. Campbell Folk School, Bing's “Continuing Dulcimer” class presents the second of two songs learned during the week, quite emboldened by the audience's enthusiastic reaction to their first tune.
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From the John C. Campbell Folk School, Bing's “Continuing Dulcimer” students prepare to demonstrate what they've learned during the week in a recital in front of all the other students, teachers and staff.
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Bing takes a break from teaching at the John C. Campbell Folk School to record an improvisation on his new McCafferty mountain dulcimer.
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Come along as the Castaway Music Cruise sets sail for the Western Caribbean. Here are some of the many highlights aboard the Royal Caribbean vessel, Brilliance of the Seas, as a crew of sailors, led by Guy & Sharrie George and Bing Futch, brave the seas in pursuit of a musical quest. www.CastawayMusicCruise.com
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A special four-part look at the 9th Annual Florida Gulf Coast Dulcimer Retreat concludes with a tour of Hampton House estate, the new home of the retreat. Also, Guy & Sharrie George perform “Planxty Fanny Power”, Bing Futch performs “Hard Times/Lean On Me”, and the whole crew waves goodbye till next year. www.GulfCoastDulcimer.com
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Moments from the 9th Annual Florida Gulf Coast Dulcimer Retreat continue along the Homosassa River with wildlife sightings, workshops and witness the proceedings of Pirate Night with costumes, seafood and rum, plus a jam. Folkcraft Instruments owner Richard Ash performs “Little Margaret.” www.GulfCoastDulcimer.com
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Bing tours around Old Homosassa in a golf cart, and also high above Hampton House. Guy and Sharrie George perform “Can't Help Falling in Love”, Richard Ash teaches a class under the gazebo in the backyard, and Bing shares a bit about his Folkcraft mountain dulcimer and plays “Red Headed Lover”, a song written for his wife, Jae. www.GulfCoastDulcimer.com
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It's the return of the Florida Gulf Coast Dulcimer Retreat! For the next few episodes, we'll take a look at the proceedings taking place at Hampton House, starting with some drone shots and an extended version of “Shady Groove” performed by Bing Futch on mountain dulcimer. www.GulfCoastDulcimer.com
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“Far-Flung February” wraps up with a tune written before Hawaii became one of the United States, so it counts as international! The “Hawaiian War Chant” is fun to flatpick! Download the tablature from Bing's Patreon open house here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75314311
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“Far-Flung February” travels to 1960s Japan for the award-winning tune, “Ue O Muite Arukou.” For DAD tuning in the key of D, this piece features some borrowed chords and accidentals that require bending strings! Download the tablature from Bing's Patreon open house here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75314137
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“Far-Flung February” continues with a visit to Czechoslovakia and the happy little tune, “Annie Went Down to the Cabbage Patch.” This piece is in DAD tuning and includes some chord work. Download the tablature from the Patreon open house: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75312754
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It's “Far-Flung February”, celebrating tunes from around the world. First up, from Korea, is “Arirang”. Bing presents a simple drone-melody mountain dulcimer arrangement in DAA tuning. Download the tablature from the Patreon open house: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75308911
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Major keys and their relative minors is the focus for this episode. Plus, Bing shows how our ears perceive major and minor elements of music.
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Bing performs a bit of the Oscar-winning song, “The Weary Kind”, by Ryan Bingham, from the film, “Crazy Heart.” He then demonstrates the fingerpicking pattern he worked up for the tune. Download the exercise here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/7525870
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Season 16 of Dulcimerica kicks off with a look at CGC tuning. Includes a demonstration of chord building in the key of C.
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Dulcimerica's 15th season wraps this month with five easy holiday favorites on the mountain dulcimer. This week, Bing teaches the Hanukkah song, “I Have a Little Dreidel.” Download the tablature at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75175878
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Dulcimerica's 15th season wraps this month with five easy holiday favorites on the mountain dulcimer. First up, Bing teaches the traditional rendition of “Joy to the World.” Download the tablature at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75175143
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Direct DownloadTo celebrate the 33rd anniversary of Disney's “The Little Mermaid”, Bing debuts a new arrangement of the song, “Part of Your World.” Download the free tablature here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/75025285 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing walks through a 48-hours-old arrangement of “Happy Christmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band. Download the free tablature from Patreon at: https://patreon.com/posts/74740469 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadIt's time for some Christmas tunes and Bing kicks things off with this great 17th century French carol. Download the free tablature here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/74460182 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing shares an exercise for developing muscle memory for playing rhythm and chords in DAD tuning, key of D major. Download the tablature for this episode from his Patreon Open House at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/74198550 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs Live! On the Clocktower stage at WAME 92.9FM/550 AM in Statesville, North Carolina for Piedmont Folkways. Part 3 of a 3-part episode. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs Live! On the Clocktower stage at WAME 92.9FM/550 AM in Statesville, North Carolina for Piedmont Folkways. Part 2 of a 2-part episode. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs Live! On the Clocktower stage at WAME 92.9FM/550 AM in Statesville, North Carolina for Piedmont Folkways. Part 1 of a 2-part episode. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadIt's a strange one, indeed, shot at a KOA campground in Doswell, Virginia. Bing shares how to handle pointy string ends, teaches the “Shave and a Haircut” tag, demonstrates a 1-4-5 improvisation and then recounts some of the events that have taken place since Winfield. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadA special episode featuring the subject of Bing's composition, “Day at Trough Creek”, performed on chromatic mountain dulcimer with some new imaginings at Trough Creek State Park in James Creek, Pennsylvania. The tune can be found on “Dulcimerica: Volume 3.” Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs an improvisation on baritone mountain dulcimer in Table Rock State Park – Branson, Missouri. Tuning is AEA. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadFrom the 50th Annual Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas, Bing takes a look at the new mountain dulcimer stand made by Wolf Hill Woodworking. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe Stark Sessions are bare-bones song studies shot in high contrast black and white with no dialogue, allowing viewers to focus on the tune at hand. For this session, the song, “Simple Gifts”, is broken down into melody, drone melody and then chords are added. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadAn excerpt from the “How to Play Bass Mountain Dulcimer” workshop from August 31st, 2022. Bing records “Bile Dem Cabbage” into a looper pedal and then demonstrates a number of different bass techniques. Download tablature and backing track practice materials for this episode from: http://www.Patreon.com/posts/71379505Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs a new tune written on August 23rd, 2022. “Birds of a Feather” is in the key of D, DAD tuning and pivots into the key of C for the second half. A work in progress! Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe Stark Sessions return with a request for “Keep on the Sunny Side.” Bing lays it out as melody, then adds chords, then fires up the looper pedal and begins stacking parts to create a full arrangement. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing demonstrates how to make a standard mountain dulcimer nut and bridge from supplied blank pieces. This is an excerpt from his workshop, “Turn Your Standard Into a Baritone.” Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadAnother travelogue episode from summer tour, this one showcasing some of the theme parks that Bing visited while on the road. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadIt's been a long time, but this episode marks a return to the touring road as Bing sets out for Kentucky Music Week in Bardstown, Kentucky. Along the way, see beautiful scenery from the sky via drone and hear some fun jam and performance tunes! Bing's recording of Charley Pride's “River Song” serves as the soundtrack. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadWrapping up a huge season of fundamentals, Bing puts the finishing touches on “Loch Lomond” with harmony and teases the next several weeks of Dulcimerica. Download mountain dulcimer tablature here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/65264913 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadContinuing a study of harmony, Bing gets into borrowed notes and chords from other keys for effect in this advanced-level episode. Download mountain dulcimer tablature for “Stay Awake” from https://www.patreon.com/posts/65262603 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing Futch continues a study of harmony with an intermediate-level episode that works with the melody to “Waltzing Matilda.” Download mountain tablature from the open house at Bing's Patreon site: https://www.patreon.com/posts/65259770 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing opens the month of July with a beginner-level episode that's a follow-up to episode 599 from last month. He demonstrates harmonic concepts like consonance, dissonance and breaks down the process of adding harmony to build chords. Tablature available at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/65253279 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadWrapping up a month of melodic study with an all-levels episode, Bing ties the source of melody together with the movement of chords in a sneak peek of next month's topic. The old Scottish tune, “Loch Lomond” serves as the exercise piece to close us out. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadContinuing a series on melody for the month of June 2022, Bing goes into non- diatonic notes in this advanced-level episode that features the song, “Stay Awake” from “Mary Poppins.” Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe melodic series continues with an intermediate episode on the classic tune, “Waltzing Matilda.” Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe month of June shifts the focus to melody. In this beginner-level episode, Bing explores where melody comes from, talks a bit about scales, and shows what it means to play in a particular key. The traditional tune, “Birmingham Jail' serves as an exercise piece. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing wraps a month-long look at rhythms by offering up some practice strums in 2/4, 4/4, 3/4 and 6/8 time. For all skill levels! Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadAn advanced level episode on rhythm opens up the field to include techniques such as palm muting, hammer-ons, pull-offs, chops, and switching between strums and flatpicking for variety. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadContinuing an emphasis on rhythm, this intermediate level episode recaps some basic elements of building a strum, and how to find the support rhythm for every tune. This leads into selective strumming with demonstrations of various tunes throughout. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadFor May 2022, the focus is on rhythm for all skill levels, starting with beginners. Bing goes into detail on the fundamentals for strumming. This includes where to strum and why, pick selection and grip, cadence exercises and playing actual tunes. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadHere's another episode for all skill levels to wrap a repertoire-building series with backing tracks in the month of April. We close with “The Fiddler Has Played His Last Tune For The Night.” Download tablature and backing tracks from Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/64847884 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThis all-levels episode works with the song, “Amen.” Bing teaches a simple version and breaks it down, then adds more advanced approaches to rhythm and combining melody + chords. Download tablature and backing tracks from Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/64823948 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThis advanced-level episode features the 1987 tune, “The Pirate O'Reilly” from Bing's album, 21. Download tablature and backing tracks from the Patreon open house at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/64812977 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadOur intermediate tune is “Mississippi Sawyer” and Bing teaches both the basic and “notey” versions. Download tablature and backing tracks from the Patreon open house at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/64779783 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe month of April brings 5 episodes of Dulcimerica in a repertoire-building series that selects tunes from the Mountain Dulcimer in the Band jam books. First up, a beginner-level dive into “The Boatman. Download tablature and backing tracks from Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/64530689 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadWrapping up six weeks of episodes on using a loop pedal, Bing unveils a new mountain dulcimer arrangement of the Depeche Mode song, “Just Can't Get Enough.” Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadIn an advanced-level episode, Bing demonstrates his arrangement of “Promentory” from The Last of the Mohicans using mountain dulcimer and looper pedal. Download the parts via the Patreon Open House - https://www.patreon.com/posts/62901536Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadFor this intermediate level episode on looper pedals for mountain dulcimer, Bing performs “Wellyn” by Force & d'Ossche' and demonstrates layered performance using “With Or Without You” by U2 as a perfect example of a looping song. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing begins a new month of tiered study with a beginner-level look at using a looper pedal for practice and performance. Using “Bile Dem Cabbage” and “You Are My Sunshine” as examples, Bing demonstrates how to use a looper and suggests techniques to create various parts that fit together. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadAs a bridge to next month's episodes, Bing uses the looper pedal to explore full-blown arrangements in the jam. Includes a demonstration of layering multiple parts. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadFor this advanced level episode, Bing brings in the looper pedal to demonstrate the layering of parts for “Black Mountain Rag” on mountain dulcimer.n dulcimer, Bing conducts an intermediate-level episode that focuses on using a capo, playing chops and countermelody, plus a neat trick for playing the I-IV-V and vi chords in three different keys. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadContinuing a study of playing in the jam with mountain dulcimer, Bing conducts an intermediate-level episode that focuses on using a capo, playing chops and countermelody, plus a neat trick for playing the I-IV-V and vi chords in three different keys. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing offers up a beginner-level episode on playing in the jam with mountain dulcimer. Key signatures, scales and chords are covered as well as tips on finding and learning the melody or simply playing accompaniment. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadAfter Meat Loaf's recent death last week, Bing created a mountain dulcimer arrangement of “I'd Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That)” in tribute. This episode is for all skill levels and the tablature can be downloaded free from Patreon at: http://tinyurl.com/meatloafMD Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing wraps a three-episode jaunt through “Aura Lee/Love Me Tender” with an advanced-level look at adding non-diatonic notes and chords via chromatic mountain dulcimer. Download the tablature and chromatic Tabledit template here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/61332245 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing adds another layer to “Aura Lee/Love Me Tender” for intermediate mountain dulcimer by adding harmonies and chords into the mix. DAD Tuning: Key of D. Tablature can be downloaded from Bing's Patreon page here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/61117349 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadSeason 15 kicks off with a new format and a look at the traditional folk song, “Aura Lee”, which Elvis Presley used as a basis for his hit song, “Love Me Tender.” This is a beginner-level mountain dulcimer episode and tablature can be downloaded from Bing's Patreon page here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/60829106 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing takes a look at some of the episodic content from 2021 during season 14. Includes material not originally broadcast. Happy New Year, all! Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe fourth and final installment of a series on sad Christmas songs features a new mountain dulcimer arrangement. Bing performs and teaches “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues. Download the tablature from Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/christmas-of-new-32579216 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart three of a four part series on sad Christmas songs features Bing's new arrangement of “Merry Christmas (Wherever You Are)” on mountain dulcimer. Download the tablature from Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/chromatic-merry-59956988 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart two of a series on sad Christmas songs features Bing's new arrangement of “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” on mountain dulcimer. Download tablature from Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/dulcimerica-574-59718046 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadIn the first of a four-part series on sad Christmas songs, Bing works with a new arrangement of the tune, “Blue Christmas” on mountain dulcimer. Download tablature from Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/dulcimerica-573-59449362 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadThe final of four improvisational pieces recorded next to Wolfpit Branch in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Bing plays “Blue Ridge Breakdown” on the mountain dulcimer. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadAnother improvisational piece on mountain dulcimer by Bing Futch, from “The Improv Files” EP from October 2021, available exclusively on Patreon. Recorded next to Wolfpit Branch in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs an improvisation called “My God, It's Full of Hearts” next to Wolfpit Branch in Black Mountain, NC. This is track two of four such tunes from “The Improv Files” recorded last month. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadEach month, Bing records a 4-song EP for an ongoing Patreon project called “The Improv Files” where he improvises four pieces starting with only a key signature. October's EP was recorded by Wolfpit Branch, a creek that runs through Blue Ridge Center in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Here, he composes/performs the first piece. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing performs his arrangement of “Carol Anne's Theme” by Jerry Goldsmith from the motion picture Poltergeist. Download the free mountain dulcimer tablature at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/mountain-carol-31191336 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadBing takes a wander on a mountain dulcimer tuned DGD. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadFrom the 49th Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas, Bing performs an improvisation-fiiled rendition of “Bricks” with Kansas band Sally and the Hurts on Stage 1. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadReturning to scenes from the 49th Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas, Bing performs an 80s rock classic on Stage 1 with the help of Kansas band Sally and the Hurts. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart nine, and the grand finale of a multi-part look at chord progressions. To wrap things up, Bing demonstrates chord inversions and how they work for voice leading smooth chord progressions. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadWe interrupt this series on chord progressions to bring you this almost-live backstage look at the 49th Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas. Features Sally and the Hurts performing a bit of “Overalls” and “Don't Stop Believing”(with Bing) and a jam of “John Stinson's No. 2” with Abby the Spoon Lady! This is also the Dulcimerica debut of Tim, Bing's new Folkcraft Instruments mountain dulcimer. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart eight of a nine-week study on chord progressions takes the gloves off and wrestles with chromaticism, a technique that brings chromatic elements into diatonic composition and arrangement. The episode covers secondary dominants, chromatic mediants and a wee bit on voice leading with chromatic elements. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart seven of a nine-week study on chord progressions begins to step outside of the diatonic box with a look at some alternate minor scales used for reharmonizing chords. Theory includes the harmonic minor scale, how to create it and build the chords, as well as the ascending and descending melodic minors. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart six of a nine-week study on chord progressions plunges into functional harmony with a quick recap. Then, Bing goes through all seven scale degrees and their characteristics before demonstrating the theory of how and why certain chords work best in a progression. Download resource material at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/55704638 Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart five of a study on chord progressions focuses on the often misunderstood diminished chord and where it fits in the grand scheme of things. We'll look at how to build it, how to use it in a progression and we'll also introduce another diatonic chord that's closely related in construction and function: the dominant seventh. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
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Direct DownloadPart four of a study on chord progressions explores the emotional major/minor mix of “Hallelujah” before leading into a study of minor chord progressions with a hint of things to come. Bing Futch is endorsed by Folkcraft Instruments, V-Picks and Zither Stands.Enjoy "Dulcimerica"? Consider supporting the program by becoming a patron!
