Hard Times (Stephen Foster, U.S.)

The deceptive simplicity of this lovely Stephen Foster tune offers some ​very ​interesting harmonization possibilities. I kept the arrangement very simple and entirely manageable for nearly any level of player. There is power in simplicity: just because we can do more does NOT mean that we should! The chord progression is a great study in moving from I to IV, using bass lines and secondary dominants.

Here's What You Get:

$38 (Sheet music PLUS video lessons)

Sheet music for melody, harmony, arrangement and arranging ideas. Ken talks through the tune, chord choices, hammering patterns, backups, embellishments, arranging, play-throughs, and more on his dulcimer (shot from above so that you can see what he's doing).

Video Lessons Included:

• Basic Tune
• Hammering
• Chord Progression
• Arrangement
• Arrangement Play-through
• Play-through and More Ideas

 Approximate length: 29 minutes

***Videos can be streamed, downloaded, or viewed in the Gumroad App on mobile devices. Watch your email for instructions after purchase***

It's like having private mini-tutorials from Ken that you can watch over and over!


NOTE: Even if you already own the sheet music, your purchase ensures that you receive the latest updated versions, and future additions to new arranging ideas, backups and so forth as Ken experiments and develops his playing of the tune.


Thank you for your support - I hope you enjoy the tune! Please do not share your purchased music and videos.

Recorded Fall 2016 Sandbridge VA