The Great Plains Dulcimer Alliance of Wichita, Kansas, was founded in 1982 by musician and luthier Les Slaughter (right, with his son David). Most members play mountain dulcimers or hammered dulcimers, but anyone who plays a stringed instrument that doesn't plug in is welcome. (And strings aren't absolutely required. Darrell Williams, a very good harmonica player, is an active member.) You don't have to be good. You can even play a banjo. Listeners are always very welcome.
Current and past members include:
- Princess Harris, 1991 National Hammered Dulcimer Champion, recording artist and member of The Plaid Family
- Renee and Dean Lippincott, 1994 & 1995 National Hammered Dulcimer Champions and members of Dulcimer Fusion
- Ernie Von Feldt, Hammered Dulcimer Champion, Kansas State Fiddlers & Pickers, 1985 & 1988
- Teresa Stovall, Mountain Dulcimer Champion: Colorado State, 1985; Avoca, Iowa Midwest Regional, 1986; Kansas State Fiddlers & Pickers, 1992
The Alliance meets the second Saturday of most months at the Immanuel Baptist Church, 1214 S. Topeka in Wichita, at 9:30 a.m. After sitting a short business meeting, the musicians attend various hour-long workshops, some for experienced players, some for absolute beginners. There are also informal jam sessions. At 11 everyone returns to the main room to listen to volunteer soloists and to play in a group jam session.
The GPDA organizes an annual "Winfield Warm-Up Picnic" every September on the weekend before the Walnut Valley Festival opens in Winfield, Kansas.
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