HeartStrings Dulcimer Quartet had it’s beginning in the Montgomery Dulcimer Players club, and continued with as the group attended music festivals and weekend campouts. The group is composed of Bob and Rose Taunton, husband and wife, and Betty Reeves and Barbara Betts who are mother and daughter. Betty’s husband John is a capable and active camper and general handyman, and Barbara’s husband David functions as sound man and key grip. They first began by joining up at festivals to perform on open stage, and the decided on year to put together a program of Christmas music for church and civic groups.

The result was gratifying. The unique sound of mountain instruments with the beautiful sounds of the season was well received. Soon the group was branching out into folk tunes, fiddle tunes, and old-time gospel music. They have since developed a very busy playing schedule.

In 2006 they recorded their first CD, which was composed of the Christmas music which gave the group their beginning. This first CD is a tribute to their very fortunate beginnings.

Thanks and appreciation kudos to folks in the dulcimer world who have educated and instructed us in this beautiful music form. Tull Glazner, Anne Lough, Larry Conger, Neal and Coleen Walters, Dave Para and Kathy Barton.

Our gratitude to organizations who promote and provide logistics for dulcimer gatherings. North Georgia Foothills Dulcimer Association, Magnolia Dulcimer Association, North Mississippi Dulcimer Association, Kentucky Music Week.

Thanks to Dave and Jeff at Atmosphere Recording Studios, Montgomery, Alabama, for making this production such a fun experience.

Click to hear excerpts from the HeartStrings CD, “Jewels for the Heart.”