Wonderscape by Joshua Messick - Hammered Dulcimer
Welcome to Wonderscape, an auditory journey where every note and rhythm invites you to rediscover the magic of wonder. My father’s deep appreciation for the beauty of nature instilled in me a profound awe—an awe for the natural world, the stories we live, and the beauty in art. One of my earliest and most vivid memories of wonder was seeing Pikes Peak at eight years old, the mountain featured on this album cover. Now, as I watch my daughter, Harper, grow, I see that same wonder blossoming in her—a pure, unbridled joy in life’s simplest moments.
In Wonderscape, I’ve channeled this legacy of wonder, crafting each track to tell its own unique story of where wonder can be found. Every piece reflects the imaginative spirit that shines so brightly in Harper. May this album inspire you to explore your own Wonderscape and uncover the extraordinary in every moment.
This album was recorded over the span of two years, a period during which I delved deeply into exploring and orchestrating new soundscapes for the hammered dulcimer. Whether as a solo instrument or in an ensemble, I sought to push the boundaries of its expressive potential. I have a deep love for this instrument, and like many who share this passion, I dream of seeing the hammered dulcimer recognized and utilized more widely in its own right. To that end, I meticulously refined my studio to showcase the dulcimer at its very best.
This album also marks the first time I’ve personally mixed my work. Through this process, I discovered not only the joy of composing music specifically for the dulcimer but also the fulfillment of working as an artist of sound. As I celebrate 30 years of playing the hammered dulcimer in 2024, I’ve re-recorded three title tracks from my earlier releases, offering a fresh perspective that reflects my current style and musical journey.
“On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.”
—Psalm 145:5 (ESV)
Gratefully yours,
Joshua Messick
Tracklist
| 1. | Springtide | 2:28 |
| 2. | Light of Dawn | 3:04 |
| 3. | Enchanted Horizons | 4:15 |
| 4. | Wonderscape | 5:16 |
| 5. | Skyward Dreams | 2:31 |
| 6. | Orbit | 3:00 |
| 7. | Starlit Odyssey | 3:47 |
| 8. | Voyager's Tale | 3:01 |
| 9. | Woodland Dance | 4:00 |
| 10. | Evergreen | 3:22 |
| 11. | Stillness | 2:28 |
| 12. | Desire for Departure | 3:20 |
| 13. | Resilience | 3:47 |
| 14. | Sactuary | 2:41 |
Credits
|| Musicians
Every musician went above and beyond in bringing my musical ideas to life, interpreting them in ways that exceeded my highest expectations.
Cello: Ryan Knott, Max Dyer (on “Wonderscape”)
Celtic Harp: Stephanie Messick
Flute, Oboe, Recorder, Saxophone: Josh Plotner
Horn: Becky Wilkins
Percussion: River Guerguerian
Virtual Instruments: Kyle Mattingly, Joshua Messick
Vocals: Julie Elven
|| Production Credits
Composed, Produced, Arranged, & Mixed by: Joshua Messick
Additional Arranging & Production Assistance by: Kyle Mattingly
Mastered by: Dave Harris
|| Artwork and Design
“Wonderscape” and “Enchanted Forest” Artwork by: Jennifer Garrett
Design and Layout by: Trevor Kinkade
Photography: Stephanie Messick
|| Special Thanks
Kyle Mattingly: for your unwavering support, innovative arranging ideas, and countless listens.
Adi Berk, Dale Burket, Jedidiah Grooters, Jacob Meador
License
All rights reserved.
National Hammered Dulcimer Champion Joshua Messick breathes new life into his ancient, enchanting instrument. He has delighted audiences throughout the world as a performing and recording artist. He represents Master Works Dulcimers and contributed to the design of the DulciForte. When not in his studio, Joshua may be found watching baseball or relaxing on the deck while grilling.