Denver Hurdy Gurdy Players and rentals

[Peter Hebert]

Hi folks,I live in Denver and have been enamored by the Hurdy Gurdy
for several years now. I have played other traditional instruments,
including the Hammered Dulcimer, which I recently bought bows for in
order to make it sound hurdy gurdyish... I am considering selling a
couple of instruments I have, a dulcimer and martin guitar, in order
to purchase an HG. However, I would like to get some exposure to the
instrument in real life, and to learn which instrument is best for
me. I like the mournful sounds of the HG on Lorena McKennets
Penelopes Song. But I also like the sounds in the french canadian
groups I have heard (the real source of my initial interest).
Does anyone know if there is an HG player in Denver, CO, that I could
contact? Also is there any place you can rent an instrument from?

Is there a huge difference between instruments made by Altarwind and
Olympic? I have seen a considerable difference in price. What about
between American and European instruments. I am interested in the
difference in sound quality as well as innovations that improve the
instrument. Any help would be appreciated.

[Augusto de Ornellas Abreu]

The string selection thingie Neil Brook has put on his HGs is amazing... Check his channel on youtube and see it in action there...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIsrDmWA5BQ

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[VonH...@aol.com]

Howdy,

 

There is a dramatic difference between all of the instruments that you named. There is a marked difference in sound and quality between Altarwind and Olympic instruments and between American and European instruments. 

 

You should read Simon Wascher's page about buying an HG http://simonwascher.info/HGbuy.htm  It pretty much sums up every question about buying hurdy gurdies.

 

Just about everyone will tell you don't go cheap. There is a distinct difference between a Yahama guitar and a 1959 Gretsch, or if you prefer a Chinese student model violin compared to a Stainer. The sound quality, evenness of tone, clarity of tone, volume, etc. all vary with each instrument but rarely do you get all of that in a low priced instrument. Buy as much of an instrument as you can afford. You will find that trying to save money by buying a cheaper beginner instrument may end up costing you a lot more if you decide to "upgrade" later on. If you spend all you can to start with you will find that you will enjoy the instrument longer and be satisfied with the sound and quality longer. This from someone who owns 7 HGs and has owned as many as 10 at one time.

 

Also, these are the most (aside from pipe organs maybe) maintenance intensive instruments you will ever own. These are not a "set it and forget it" instrument. There is a lot to know about maintenance and set up. There are a few videos out there that cover the whole process and are very helpful such as Neil Brook's video http://www.hurdy-gurdy.org.uk/accessories.html

 

If you can, do your best to attend the Over the Water Hurdy Gurdy Festival in September. They usually have loaner instruments and can teach you everything you need to know about HGs. You will also get a chance to see and possibly play instruments from various makers from about the world. As well as take classes from great teachers from around the world.

 

Hope that this helps and good luck,

 

Scott