A dulcimer is a kind of zither, known throughout Middle Eastern and western European music traditions since at least the 12th century. Handheld, portable, these graceful and gentle-voiced instruments often traditionally accompanied vocalists at indoor settings. In Europe during the Middle Ages, they became closely associated with songs and poetry of courtly love. Contemporary performers include the many hammered dulcimer organizations whose festivals have become increasingly popular throughout North America and Great Britain since the early 1980s, and recording artists such as the folk/punk group, The Pogues.
A wide range of dulcimers also exist in Asian and some African countries; relatives of European models, their materials and sound qualities reflect the diversity and creativity of their cultural environments. Among nonwestern variants are the Chinese yang chin , and the North Indian santur, a three octave instrument which has become very popular in classical musical traditions. Its name literally translates as: instrument with a hundred strings . Both are hammered dulcimers which you play by striking two sticks or beaters against the strings.
Selected References: