Tradition meets innovation as Ted Yoder kicks off ICA concert season at OHIO Southern

A hammered dulcimer isn’t the kind of instrument you see every day.

With its long trapezoidal frame, more than 90 strings, and centuries-old design, it belongs to the world of folk traditions. But under the hands of Ted Yoder, the 2010 U.S. National Hammered Dulcimer Champion, it transforms into something entirely modern.

On Sunday, Oct. 5, at 3 p.m., Yoder will bring his full band to the Riffe Rotunda at to open the 45th annual subscription concert season of the Ironton Council for the Arts. The performance blends instrumental mastery with genre-spanning energy, incorporating classical structure, folk storytelling and rock-and-roll rhythm into a sound as layered as the instrument itself.

Yoder has earned national recognition for his inventive approach to the hammered dulcimer, pushing the instrument beyond traditional boundaries. His viral video performance of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” recorded in his backyard, has been viewed more than 200 million times and introduced audiences around the world to the expressive potential of an often-overlooked instrument. With the addition of guitar, bass, percussion and drums, the delivers a rich, contemporary sound rooted in tradition, but driven by innovation.

This concert is the first of six in the Ironton Council for the Arts’ 2025–26 season. Four of the performances will be held on the ������ý Southern campus, continuing a long-standing partnership that supports access to high-quality musical experiences in the tri-state region.

“Our collaboration with the Ironton Council for the Arts helps us connect the campus with the broader community,” said Dr. Deborah Marinski, dean of campus and community relations. “These events enrich the cultural life of southern Ohio and provide a way for students and residents to engage with the arts together.”

Dr. Pat McCoy, Ironton Council for the Arts president and a professor of art and art history at ������ý, has led the organization for eight years and has served on the board for more than two decades. Under his leadership, the council has expanded outreach efforts, diversified its programming, and maintained a strong commitment to affordability.

“The goal of the Ironton Council for the Arts has always been to bring high-quality, low-cost, engaging performances to the community,” McCoy said. “Our season is built around musical excellence and the idea that everyone in our region should have access to inspiring live performances.”

Admission for each concert in the series is $15, with free entry for students and children.