Linda Ferguson

Lisa remembers the first time she heard a hammer dulcimer being played and was immediately drawn to the haunting and beautiful sounds emanating from the instrument. It also looked so fun to be drumming on strings! Lisa, a native of Houston, Texas, grew up studying classical music on the piano and was always encouraged by her father to follow her passion for music.

Lisa considers herself geographically blessed because of the three local dulcimer players in Chattanooga TN who have been her instructors and mentors. Back to the first time she heard a dulcimer being played…it was by none other than Dan Landrum. She knew that she had to learn to play that instrument and purchased a very inexpensive instrument and did not even buy a proper stand for it. Dan never said a word about the goofy setup. Eventually after hearing his new Jerry Read Smith dulcimer every week during her lesson, she purchased a used JRS and drove thirteen hours to North Carolina to get that dulcimer. The other teacher that she credits with influencing her style is the unbelievably talented and creative Christie Burns with whom she regularly performs. That has been one of the best learning experiences - to be able to play out in public with someone of her caliber. Lisa also takes lessons with 2007 National Champion Stephen Humphries.

Lisa feels blessed to be performing publicly with an instrument she took up as a hobby and is continuing to study and progress. She is working on percussion techniques, music theory and collaborating with other musicians. She has written a few original pieces and has started playing for weddings. She enjoys performing a varied repertoire of classical, Celtic, Swedish, folk and old time music.