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Taking A Look At The Baroque Hurdy Gurdy In The 18th Century
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Taking A Look At The Baroque Hurdy Gurdy In The 18th Century

The hurdy gurdy is a fascinating musical instrument with a rich history that experienced varying levels of popularity throughout different eras. Although it was invented during the medieval times, it saw its golden age during the Baroque period, especially in the 18th century.

During this time, the instrument became popular in royal courts and was adapted for more sophisticated music. It was particularly favoured in France, where composers wrote pieces specifically for it. If you are intrigued by the instrument’s history during the baroque period, you can learn more about it in a hurdy gurdy book.

What Is A Hurdy Gurdy?

A hurdy-gurdy is made up of a crank, a wooden box, and strings that are played by turning a wheel. In Catalonia, it’s often called the “Wheel Fiddle,” which is a fitting name.

The instrument has three types of strings:

  • Drones: These produce a constant low background sound.
  • Trumpet strings: These are like alto drones and are connected to a buzzing bridge. The buzzing sound is created when the wheel’s speed is increased.
  • Melody strings: These are controlled by keys and play the main tune.

Originally, the hurdy gurdy was used as a simple accompaniment, but gradually it became popular in Baroque music, especially in the court of Queen Marie Leszczynska, wife of Louis XV. Famous composers like Baton, Vivaldi, Corrette, and Chedeville incorporated it into their works.

Hurdy Gurdy

Hurdy Gurdy’s Rise To Aristocracy

In the past, owning a hurdy gurdy was considered a symbol of status and wealth. This was especially true among the aristocracy in France. Many nobles took pride in playing the instrument, which quickly gained popularity in the royal courts of Munich and Versailles. But before its rise to fame, the hurdy gurdy was commonly associated with the lower classes.

Historical records show that Adelaide, the third daughter of Louis XV, loved playing the hurdy gurdy. Baton, the famous hurdy gurdy maker even noted in his memoirs that he demonstrated his “new lute-back hurdy-gurdies” to Marie Antoinette.

The rise of hurdy gurdy from being an instrument of the poor to a symbol of aristocracy highlights its versatility and cultural significance. It cannot be denied that hurdy gurdy’s rich history and distinctive sound have made it a fascinating instrument of the past as well as present times.