JCCFS: Tell us a little bit about yourself. What’s your background in your medium? How did you get started?

JM: I saw my first hammered dulcimer in 1978 and knew I had to have one. I was attending a vocational school woodworking program at the time and that’s where I built my first one. I started my own shop in 1980 building hammered dulcimers full time. I did this from 1980 until 2000. In that time, I completed over 750 instruments. After I sold my shop, I taught elementary school for 15 years. I retired from teaching in 2015 and have spent the past 10 years teaching and performing at numerous dulcimer festivals around the country. I have taught the hammered dulcimer building class for several years at Folk School and am delighted in the final products that student produce.

JCCFS: Tell us more about your class’s specific technique or process.

JM: In my class, the students complete a Grassroots 15/14 instrument from a precut kit. The kits are very well made, and the materials are first rate. We assemble, finish, string and tune the instruments and then I provide a brief introduction to playing. With 47 years of experience, I am able to have students playing simple tunes and chords in a short time. I have been very pleased with both the finished instruments as well as the student’s budding skills at playing them.

JCCFS: What can students expect to leave your class with?

JM: Students will leave the class with a beautiful sounding instruments and the skill to play simple tunes on it. They can build on what I teach them and continue on to a life time of musical enjoyment with their new instruments.

JCCFS: What is your favorite aspect or part of the Folk School? What do you most look forward to when coming back to teach on our campus? 

JM: I love the camaraderie and sense of community the Folk School provides. It is always a joy to sit at meals with a variety of interesting folks and share their mutual enthusiasm for art and crafts. The setting is beautiful, and the food is first rate. I like the evening programs, morning song, and just spending time with like minded people.

JCCFS: Where do you draw inspiration from for your work?

JM: I derive much inspiration from the fellow musicians I encounter at various festivals and music camps. I love to sit on a jam session and absorb the many and various tunes and songs I have learned at such events.

JCCFS: What’s one piece or craft object you’ve made recently that you are proud of, and why?

JM: I have won several awards at the Tennessee Craft Fairs for my instruments.

JCCFS: What tips would you give a student or aspiring craftsperson? Anything you wish you had known earlier in your career? 

JM: Become immersed in the history, culture and experience of your craft. Observe and learn from other makers, not just in your field, but in the creative endeavor in general. Network with others , and exchange ideas and techniques in order to advance not only your skill, but of the creative process across genres

JCCFS: Where can folks find you if they want to stay up to date on your work?

JM: My web site is www.jimmillerdulcimer.com. You can find my contact information there.

JCCFS: Anything else we should know about your, your class, or your practice?

JM: I’m looking forward to spending another week in Brasstown and sharing my talents with another class.