Jeff Hames

In 2006, first place was awarded to Jeff Hames, an 18-year old high school student of Madison, MS. This was Jeff’s second time to enter this contest. He placed 3rd in 2005. Jeff started playing this instrument at the tender age of 10 and he also plays the clarinet and guitar. He placed in the New Songs Showcase in 2005. His grandfather gave him his first Mountain Dulcimer; in fact his grandfather built this one for him. At Madison Central High School, Jeff plays in the band. Jeff believes he has a first in history; his band director asked him to play mountain dulcimer in the marching band and when they played for the first time with Jeff playing his Mt. Dulcimer, the marching band stopped playing and it was up to him to carry on. He was thinking, “don’t stop now!” Jeff’s comment on the Festival is “it’s the best place to go for music.” The 1st Place Trophy, $150, and a KOA Custom Mountain Dulcimer model 4FHKK by McSpadden Dulcimers of Mountain View, AR were awarded to Jeff for his efforts.