THE SAVANNAH RIVER HAMMERS The Savannah River Hammers, a hammered dulcimer group that is well known in the CSRA and the surrounding area, will perform in the covered pavilion at Elijah Clark State Park Saturday, August 16, at 8 p.m.

In addition to the concert, the group will also educate the audience about this unique instrument that can be traced back to Old Testament times.

"Many have never seen a hammered dulcimer," said Pat Colvert, spokesman for the group. "It has lovely tones and depending on the size, about 60 strings. These are then hit with then wooden hammers to produce music."

Savannah River Hammers, which is comprised of at least five dulcimer players, performs a variety of music — traditional, Irish, polkas, ragtime, and hymns.

According to Colvert, "We are all members of a larger group, the Savannah River String Band, which has performed many concerts in the area at venues such as Hopeland Gardens and Maude Edenfield Park. We have also played for Arts in the Heart of Augusta.

"Only the dulcimers will be playing at Elijah Clark State Park on Saturday," she continued, "but if we get a good response, we may bring the whole group sometime."

There is no admission charge for the concert; however, visitors are reminded that all Georgia state parks charge an entrance fee of $3 per vehicle.

The public is encouraged to attend.

For more information about the group, contact the park at 706-359- 3458.