Ken's interest in woodworking began back in his high school days. Instead of working retail like his peers, Ken started a small remodeling company in his late teens. He even went so far as to build a few new homes before returning to finish his education. Ken presently owns a design firm with his wife and a residential home building business.
Ken became fascinated with the hammered dulcimer when listening to a musician by the name of Rich Mullins (1956-1997). Mullins used the dulcimer in conjunction with today's contemporary music. Ken studied and played violin, piano, and classical guiter throughout his life, so music was a part of him. So, when Ken went to a folk festival in Geneva, Illinois, he was immediately fascinated with the hammered dulcimer, and decide to purchase and learn to play one. When Ken looked for a teacher in the St. Charles, Illinois area, he was referred to Bill Robinson. After taking lessons for a few months and discussing Bill's allergies, a light bulb turned on in Ken's head. Here was an opportunity to combine two things he enjoyed doing: woodworking and music.
Bill and Ken have worked on and repaired numerous hammered dulcimers to date. As finances and time become avaliable, Ken hopes to build a shop to more easily facilitate the construction of the dulcimers. Under the guidance of Bill, Ken hopes to be a big part in carrying on the tradition passed down to Bill from his parents.
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