Amanda Seyfried performs Joni Mitchell's captivating tune on the dulcimer, a 19th-century musical apparatus.
Amanda Seyfried's Dulcimer Performance on The Tonight Show
Amanda Seyfried, the Golden Globe and Emmy-winning actress, recently showcased her musical talents on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. In a captivating performance, Seyfried played the dulcimer, a relatively uncommon instrument in mainstream pop performances, while singing a cover of Joni Mitchell's "California"[1][3][4].
The dulcimer, a stringed instrument historically associated with American folk music, particularly Appalachian traditions, is typically lap-played and known for its bright, melodic tone[4]. Seyfried's choice of the dulcimer added authenticity and a folk element to the rendition, resonating with Mitchell's original style and the song's mood.
Seyfried's performance was well-received by the audience and the show's host, Jimmy Fallon, who expressed surprise and admiration during the performance[6]. The actor-singer warmed up and tuned the dulcimer before her performance, demonstrating her dedication to the instrument[2].
Seyfried mentioned that she learned to play the dulcimer during the Covid-19 pandemic[7]. Her skillful handling of the instrument, coupled with her warm tone and nimble finger picking, highlighted her respect for 19th-century string instruments and her musical versatility[4][5].
The video of Seyfried playing the dulcimer on The Tonight Show is now circulating on the internet, garnering praise from fans and music enthusiasts alike. Some have even suggested that Seyfried should be cast as Joni Mitchell in an upcoming biopic, although Seyfried has stated that her performance was not intended as an audition for that role[4][5].
The dulcimer that Fallon produced for the show was a beautiful example of the instrument[5]. Fallon jokingly remarked that the dulcimer was ready for anyone who plays it, implying it was not a setup for the show[8]. This performance brought the dulcimer into modern popular culture, blending musical history with contemporary media exposure[1][4][5].
History of the Dulcimer
The dulcimer is a wooden string instrument played across the lap, originating in the Appalachian Mountains in the 19th century[9]. Its distinctive tone and association with American folk music make it an ideal choice for performances of folk songs.
Technique and Significance
Playing the dulcimer requires coordination to sing and play simultaneously, adding to the challenge and the authenticity of the performance[2]. The use of the dulcimer in Seyfried's Tonight Show performance connected her performance directly to the folk tradition that Joni Mitchell is known for. It also brought renewed attention to the instrument itself, which is not often in the spotlight on national television shows[1][2].
In summary, Seyfried's dulcimer performance on The Tonight Show was a testament to her musical skills, her appreciation for Joni Mitchell's work, and her love for traditional instruments. It added a unique and authentic touch to the cover of "California", and it brought the dulcimer into the limelight, reviving interest in this historic instrument.
The performance by Amanda Seyfried on The Tonight Show, where she played the dulcimer and sang a cover of Joni Mitchell's "California," showcased her musical talents and appreciation for folk music, seamlessly blending entertainment and music. As a result, her captivating act breathed new life into the dulcimer, an instrument historically associated with American folk music, and sparked renewed interest in its unique tone and charm.
