HURDY GURDY QUEST 2010. IT’S ON!

It’s no secret that I have a big nerdy side, but I think it’s about to reach it’s peak. I’ve been listening to the new Eluveitie album quite a bit lately, and since Elise and I saw them at Heathenfest this past summer in New York I’ve been intrigued by the HURDY GURDY. I mean, it’s got a funny name, looks kinda funny, and creates a sound thats like a hybrid of bagpipes and sitar. I’ve done a little internet investigation on how it’s made and how it works, and I have decided that I’m just gonna have to get my hands on one…

So this is my theory (albeit a little naive I’m sure): A hurdy gurdy is a keyed string instrument with a crank. I have no experience with anything in the violin family, but I can play piano, and from what I can tell with the crank you just need to crank in tempo with whatever you’re playing. With a little practice I’m sure I could handle that. 

By the end of 2010 I want to get my hands on a hurdy gurdy and at least be able to play Mary Had a Little Lamb or Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star or something. Maybe I’ll even purchase one if I like it. And of course, I’ll update with my progress and if I can actually find one, I’ll video it so you guys can see what an idiot I am. It’s not like the time in middle school when I saw Josie and the Pussycats and had my heart set on being a drummer, I just want to experiment a little bit…

Wish me luck?

-Julia