Robert Force has been a performer on the Appalachian dulcimer for more than thirty-five years. His book on dulcimer techniques and styles, "In Search of the Wild Dulcimer," sold more than 100, 000 copies and, in the words of the San Francisco Chronicle, "helped set the standards for modern dulcimers." The Victory Music Review of Seattle has noted, "his records, books, festivals and appearances have literally influenced thousands of dulcimer players."
Pioneer of the standing up, overhand style of playing, Force appeared on the influential late '70s recording "The Pacific Rim Dulcimer Project," which introduced players such as Albert d'Ossche, Neal Hellman and Bonnie Carol as well. His original tunes such as "Wellyn" have become well-known by dulcimer players everywhere.
He has more than a half dozen recordings and several books to his credit, and has performed in nearly every state in the union as well as throughout Europe. He has co-billed with such diverse headliners as Doc Watson, Norman Blake, The Grisman Quintet, Les Paul and even Zsa Zsa Gabor, to name a few. He hails from Port Townsend, WA.
"A player par excellence, Robert Force combines warmth, wit and musical ability into an experience that leaves the audience uplifted and thoroughly entertained." --The Sounder Magazine of Washington