Eagle's Trace Dulcimers Make Beautiful Music

Music always fills the halls at Eagle's Trace, an Erickson Senior Living community in West Houston, Tex.-- including the unique sound of dulcimers.

Judy Jackson, an Appalachian dulcimer aficionado, and her husband Jim, a guitar player, were eager to get a group of musicians together after moving to the community in June 2021.

"So, we started a dulcimer group with help from Resident Life," Judy says.

Now, the Eagle's Trace Dulcimers--which has grown to six regular players--meet most Thursday afternoons from 2–4 p.m.

A musical move

Jim and Judy, Central California natives, came to Eagle's Trace to pursue their love of music, teaching, and performing.

"Jim's Air Force career with defense contractors moved us around the country," Judy explains. "We thought we were settled in North Georgia, but we realized it was time to downsize and live closer to one of our children."

She continues, "In April 2021, while visiting one of our sons living in Houston, we took a look at Eagle's Trace and loved it. We made the move just two months later!"

The Jacksons were drawn to the community's maintenance-free residences, which would allow them to make the most of their retirement and enjoy all the amenities, activities, and clubs across the 72-acre campus.

They were also happy that they could create a group if a current club didn't match their unique interests. So, soon after settling in, they reached out to the Resident Life team to start a group for dulcimer players.

"Finding like-minded residents to meet and socialize with is always a great way to get to know the community and enjoy the things you love in retirement," notes Resident Life Director Kristen Kennedy. "Jim and Judy played before moving to Eagle's Trace and wanted to continue their hobby."

"Resident Life was helpful, advertising in the [campus] Grey Matters newsletter, finding us a room, and getting us armless chairs, which we need to accommodate the dulcimers," says Judy.

Beginners welcome!

The Appalachian dulcimer, also known as the mountain dulcimer and lap dulcimer, is a slim three- or four-stringed, fretted wood instrument. It is considered part of the zither musical instrument family and is said to have originated in the Appalachian Mountain region among Scots-Irish immigrants.

Because it's a rather unique instrument, "I found some residents who were interested, but most had never played before," Judy recalls. "So, I became the teacher!"

Judy welcomes all residents to join the Eagle's Trace Dulcimers, asking only that players bring their own instruments. "I will teach beginners," she notes. "I am very proud of the players, since only one had ever played the dulcimer before. Now, we are able to play two- and three-part harmonies. But all of the players have had some musical background, such as piano, choir, or band."

She continues, "We mostly play fiddle tunes, hymns, and Irish and Scottish tunes. Our favorite Scottish tune is 'Bonnie Doon.' Irish favorites are 'For Ireland I'd Not Tell Her Name,' 'Tell Me Ma,' 'Molly Malone,' and 'Southwind.'"

The group also plays occasional Sunday morning services in the community's creative arts studio, joined by Jim on the guitar.

"We are always appreciated when we play for the church service. We're glad we are able to contribute," says Judy. "We all enjoy getting together to play sweet music. Sometimes, there is more talking than playing, but we have all become good friends and look forward to our time together."

Something for everyone

A quick scan of the Eagle's Trace activities calendar reveals that residents can participate in a number of other music-related groups, clubs, and classes, including the Eagle's Trace Strummers, the Opera Lovers Discussion, and Musicology Live.

Not to mention the talented residents, like the Eagle's Trace Singers, who offer their musical gifts at performances around the community.

The Entertainment Committee also organizes musical presentations on campus, such as the John Loving Bass Duo and Gilbert and Sullivan's "Iolanthe."

'So many activities'

In addition to their musical endeavors, Judy and Jim enjoy a range of other on-campus activities with neighbors and new friends.

"We like the convenience of living here," Judy says. "There are so many activities that no one can be bored! We appreciate all the friendly people and the many friends we have made here."

To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Eagle's Trace, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Susan Ingram