Out and About with Barney: Handmade dulcimers bring Appalachian music to life in Brown County – WISH-TV

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Barney took us to visit the picturesque hills of Brown County, were Bill Berg crafts handmade dulcimers, bringing the sounds of mountain music to life.
Berg’s workshop, nestled in the area known as the Little Smokies, produces mountain dulcimers, guitars, and bowed psalteries using cherry and rosewood. His passion for music and craftsmanship is evident in each instrument he creates.
“I’ve always had an interest in music,” Berg shared, reflecting on his lifelong passion that began with drawings of instruments as a child.
The dulcimer, one of the instruments Berg specializes in, has historical roots in the Appalachian region, influenced by German and Scotch-Irish music traditions.
Berg explained that the dulcimer is easy to learn, making it accessible to musicians of all levels.
Berg uses cherry wood for dulcimers and rosewood and spruce for guitars, noting that the type of wood affects the instrument’s tone.
The dulcimer’s tuning has evolved over the years, with D becoming the most common key.
Visitors to Berg’s workshop can see the intricate process of crafting these instruments by hand, a skill that Berg has honed over the years.
Despite the remote location, the beauty and tranquility of the setting add to the charm of the experience.
Berg’s dedication to preserving and sharing the art of handmade instruments continues to resonate with music enthusiasts, offering a unique glimpse into the rich musical heritage of the region.

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