Robert Force , pioneer of the standing up, overhand style of playing, has been a performer on the Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer for more than thirty-five years. His book on dulcimer techniques and styles, In Search of the Wild Dulcimer, published by Random House in 1974 has sold more than 100,000 copies and, in the words of the San Francisco Chronicle, "helped set the standards for modern dulcimers." Victory Music Review of Seattle has noted, "His records, books, festivals and appearances have literally influenced thousands of dulcimer players."

“My passion is teaching people to play and hear the dulcimer in a contemporary manner. To those who are in the process of discovering the dulcimer for themselves, I ask them to take a good long look at the word "folk" because, really, it means who they are and what they do. Whether it is country, rock, reggae, raga, jazz, or folk-- all of these styles are music from the people, about the people and for the people. I lead students and audiences through the experience of exploring these many song forms, helping to build an appreciation of the techniques required to master them.”

Robert has produced over thirty recordings for other musicians, has more than a half dozen of his own recordings to his credit, written several books, constructed an interactive dulcimer tutorial website, and performed in nearly every state in the Union as well as in parts of Europe. He has co-billed with such diverse headliners as Doc Watson, Norman Blake, the Grisman Quintet, Les Paul and even Zsa Zsa Gabor to name a few. Dr. Susan Porter of The Ohio State University said of him, "He is a technically proficient, disciplined, knowledgeable musician who is sensitive to nuances in a variety of styles, yet who has the creative capability to develop a highly personal style."

Of himself he says, "In my journey, the dulcimer has been my philosopher's stone, teaching and transforming me. Throughout my life, I have found that whatever I touched with joyful music offered up great secrets and yielded to me the very best of its nature. Along with my family, nothing has taught me as much about the world, friendship, love, joy and certainly myself, as has playing the dulcimer.”

The Sounder Magazine of Washington sums up his contribution to musicianship: "A player par excellence, Robert Force combines warmth, wit and musical ability into an experience that leaves the audience uplifted and thoroughly entertained."

Learn more about Robert at his personal website: www.RobertForce.com