Discover the Hurdy Gurdy: A Musical Journey Unveiling the Enchanting Sounds of a Timeless Instrument

The Hurdy-Gurdy Player (Le Joueur de Vielle) at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Did you know that the hurdy-gurdy is a string instrument that has been around since the Middle Ages? Initially, it was used for sacred music, but over time, it became famous for playing popular and folk music.

It even found favour at the French court! Although it experienced a decline in popularity, it is currently experiencing a resurgence and can be found in various genres, from traditional folk to progressive rock and avant-garde music. 

Interestingly, the reason for its name is unknown, but it is speculated that it may be related to the sound it produces.

Unlike other string instruments, the hurdy-gurdy creates sound by rubbing its strings with a rosined wheel. It also has drone strings that create a buzzing accompaniment to the tune, similar to bagpipes that create a buzzing accompaniment. 

If you want to learn more about the hurdy-gurdy, click the link here.