Vince Conaway is a virtuoso on the dulcimer, a string instrument played by striking strings with wooden “hammers.” The dulcimer, invented in the Middle Ages, is a member of the zither family of instruments. - Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
Vince Conaway is a virtuoso on the dulcimer, a string instrument played by striking strings with wooden “hammers.” The dulcimer, invented in the Middle Ages, is a member of the zither family of instruments.

On Luna’s musical menu are dulcimer, Celtic and roots


January 27, 2009 · 3:55 PM

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Vince Conaway brings his hammered dulcimer music to Café Luna at 7:30 p.m Friday, Jan. 30, followed the next night, Saturday, Jan. 31, by folksinger/guitarist Rose Laughlin, who will perform from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Neither show has a cover charge.

Conaway’s music is a combination of medieval and Celtic styles, coupling the passion of Irish music and the stateliness of ancient forms.

With a background in piano and mandolin, Conaway taught himself to play the dulcimer, gradually incorporating it into his other performances until it became his primary instrument.

“Conaway is the best hammered dulcimer player I know of,” wrote a reviewer at EverythingDulcimer.com. “No one plays like this. He’s captivating and unique!”

Laughlin sings traditional Celtic and American roots music. Her style and interpretation, according to organizers, give a fresh, soulful sound to traditional music.

“Laughlin is a gifted storyteller,” said columnist Matthew Moeller. “Her solid grounding in Celtic and old-time tunes creates a promising blend of the two genres.”

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