The Hurdy Gurdy Man

For those over a certain age, every one knows about the Hurdy Gurdy man. While I know what it sounds like, I had never seen one played and so I was intrigued to see this busker in Belgium player to no one in the street. Wandering over to have closer looked he seemed pleased that anyone was taking an interest and I had a pleasant chat to him.

The instrument is played by a turning a wheel over several strings - the speed of the wheel determines the sound. In addition to the wheel, the musician also has a simple key board which strikes the strings.

Traditionally hurdy gurdy's were a large square instrument and were played by two people, one turning the handle and the other playing the keyboard. This smaller lute shaped version become popular in the 19th century.

This guy actually made this one himself and yes I did give him some money.

And for those who don't know the song or have forgotten here is a link. There is no hurdy gurdy played on this track.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHV8Wzldlck