Lilah Hickok Gillett, charter member of the O.D.P.C., and co-founder of the Prairie Duclimer Club of Kansas City area, gives music her full-time commitment by teaching, performing, recording, and publishing books of tunes and instruction for the hammered dulcimer.

She has been awarded the title "Master Folk Artist" by both Kansas and Missouri, making her the only person to receive this award in two states. Her contribution to folk culture has been significant.

Lilah, who learned to play the dulcimer by watching her father, Elgia Hickok play, was raised in a family with long-standing tradition of enjoying dulcimer. She has entertained thousands at special events and festivals, and continues to pass her special skills on to many eager apprentices.