Kyle Meadows

Kyle Meadows has been playing the hammered dulcimer for 20 years. The beautiful sound of the hammered dulcimer first attracted him to the instrument and continues to inspire him today. Its bell-like tones resonate and create layers of sounds that mingle with one another. This provides the opportunity to consider the spaces between the notes, just as negative space is a critical part of visual art. Meadows' arrangements are unique in that they often consist of slow, graceful tunes with ample spaces between the music, allowing the listener time to absorb the pitch and placement of the notes.

Meadows is also inspired by all the music he has heard in his life, including traditional (Appalachian, Celtic) or popular (reggae, rock, rhythm and blues, country, and classical). He uses elements of all of these genres in his arrangements and performs some unexpected popular tunes, which always turn out beautifully.

Meadows has a comfortable, almost effortless, approach to the instrument and to the varied songs he adapts to it. To listen to his music is to be relaxed, uplifted and delighted.