Gerry Heinrich
Gerry Heinrich builds his dulcimers in his workshop in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. While working as a cabinetmaker for American Music Furniture he was exposed to all kinds of acoustic music. When the pandemic hit, he was increasingly frustrated by the lack of live music. Watching YouTube one day he saw a video featuring a mountain dulcimer, “the easiest stringed instrument in the world to learn to play”. Through his connections at work, he was loaned a McSpadden dulcimer to teach himself to play. After examining the dulcimer, he realized he could probably make one himself. After extensive research on the mechanics and the history of dulcimers he designed and built his first dulcimer in August, 2020.
Due to the pandemic, he had to wait until the following spring to find someone who knew how to play to get feedback on his creations. He’s had only positive reviews and encouragement from professional players and luthiers.
With over 50 years as a woodworker, Gerry continues to experiment with different species of woods with a focus on reclaimed wood. He builds both teardrop and hourglass dulcimers and has designed a hybrid which offers the sweet sound of a teardrop and the stability of an hourglass. He continues to design beautiful instruments with various color combinations and sound hole pattern designs.
Gerry enjoys playing his dulcimers every day, and each has a unique sound. He’d love to build one for you!
