The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy – Field Notes On Playing

This book holds the distilled knowledge, reflections and insights from hurdy-gurdy players engaged with diverse traditions and contemporary practices who have taken the time to write thoughtfully about their hurdy-gurdy playing and have given energy, and knowledge to this endeavour.

The book features a player per chapter who provides insights into musicality, playing technique, theory, practice, pedagogy, performance and social context.

Knowledge is power. This book will delight, enthuse, enlighten and inspire even the most experienced hurdy-gurdy player bringing more power to every reader’s music-making.

The book features writing and interviews with the following players:
Bruno Andersen; Patrick Bouffard; Nicolas Boulerice; Quentin Budworth; Gilles Chabenat; Germán Díaz; Oscar Fernandez; Abel Garcia; Sergio Gonzales; Stephan Groth; Thomas Hoste; Peter Kanssen; Nicolas Koch Simms; Nicholas Konradson; Matthias Loibner; Michalina Malisz; Scott Marshall; Rafa Martin; Christian Mohr Levisen; Ruben Monteiro; Ariel Ninas; Sam Palmer; Isabelle Pignol; Etienne Pinoteau; Benoît Roblin; Clare Rose; R.T Taylor; Paul Sherwood; Steve Tyler; Pablo Caamiña Ursusson; Mary Vanhoozer and Alex Zwingmann.

The wheel is infinite and life is short. Take time to stand on the shoulders of giants and enter the secret world of the hurdy-gurdy. The insights contained in this book will make you a much better hurdy-gurdy player and musician 

What the readers say:

‘Hi, I just wanted to say thank you for the excellent book. It was really interesting to read about the philosophy and approach to playing the gurdy of such a variety of musicians, and it inspired me to play my gurdy, which is never a bad thing!’
Wolfie Fiddler

‘Hi Quentin, I received the book today. I’ve skimmed through it and think it’s fantastic. Thanks for doing so. Best regards. ‘
Angel de la Calle

‘It’s an excellent book. I learn something new from every chapter!’
Kevin Holland, multi-instrumentalist

‘There’s an immense amount of work there and it’s a credit to you. Thanks also for the occasional name check!’
Neil Brook, luthier

‘A fascinating read. Not only for hurdy-gurdy players and other musicians, but with insights from 32 leading players from around the world for anyone who likes people’s stories. Recommended! Nice one Q!’
Lou Dufy-Howard