The hurdy gurdy was the instrument of choice for many troubadors and minstrels from the Middle Ages through the French Revolution. It was superseded in the 1800's and almost driven to extinction by the accordian, and has been enjoying a growing renaissance since the 1960's.The player turns a crank, which turns a wooden wheel that has rosin on it (like a violin bow). The wheel is turned by the player's right hand, and rubs on the under side of the strings, creating a drone sound, similar to bagpipes. With the left hand the player makes the tune on the keys in the keybox. The chanters or melody strings, run though the keybox and the key pressing against the string changes its tone. The keys fall back to their original positions by the force of gravity.
Several drone strings are outside the keybox, and so sound the same note all the time. Underneath the drones are sympathetic strings that simply add resonance and "shimmer" to the overall sound. A small movable bridge called the "chien" (or dog) on one of the drones can be made to vibrate rhythmically by cranking the wheel harder, and this buzzing is used for a rhythmic accompaniment to the tune.
The above electric-acoustic hurdy gurdy is the peak of modern contemporary instruments, a tenor model with many innovations made by Wolfgang Weischelbaumer in Vienna.
ABOUT DON AND HIS MUSIC
Don has studied violin around the world. In addition to being a performer, he also shares his gifts through poetry, wedding ceremonies and other celebrations.
LESSONS
Don’s unique and compassionate teaching style combines modern techniques with the classical form he learned in the European Conservatories.
wedding SERVICES
Rev. Don’s talents as a poet, musician and linguist provide the perfect combination for a personalized and heartfelt ceremony on Maui or the location of your choice.