"To entertain and educate our neighbors and communities with beautiful music by mountain dulcimers and traditional mountain instruments."

There is no better way to introduce ourselves than to reprint an article about the origin of the Hills of Kentucky Dulcimer Club (HOKD) by Ann Startz, one of our founders. To read Ann's article, click here.

HOKD is active in the community providing entertainment at a local Elderhostel and other public facilities such as libraries and nursing homes. HOKD often participates in area festivals such as the Cincinnati Appalachian Festival and The Gathering at either French Lick, IN, or Lexington, KY. Individual members will often be seen performing or teaching at other festivals and events. We always strive to promote our music to young and old alike.

HOKD meets on the first and third Thursday of each month. The purpose of each meeting is to provide instruction, to rehearse for performances, to discuss club business and to play music.

We primarily feature the mountain dulcimer (a.k.a. Appalachian dulcimer, lap dulcimer, hog fiddle, duckslammer); however club jams include the washtub bass, mandolin, guitar, autoharp, fiddle, flute, train whistle, etc. Our library of music is extensive and includes old time, gospel, folk and pop music. Meeting jams will progress from a slow pace in consideration of novice players to the fast and furious. There is music for all.

Mountain dulcimer instruction is provided for all levels. Structured instruction is offered. We often invite guest instructors to teach technique or a new tune. Many club members are willing to teach other instruments.