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I hate to be that guy, but Leonardo didn't really innovate here: the hurdy-gurdy had existed for a long time by the time he sketched out this instrument, and it

I hate to be that guy, but Leonardo didn't really innovate here: the hurdy-gurdy had existed for a long time by the time he sketched out this instrument, and it had rosined wheels turning against strings, the different pitches being selected by a crude keyboard of buttons. Sure, this is more refined, but all the important elements were present in an existing instrument. Still, though, it makes a pleasant, musically useful sound. I wonder how hard it is to keep in adjustment; it seems like it would be touchy (just like the hurdy-gurdy).

gry 13y ago
First off, I didn't know the hurdy-gurdy was an instrument, nor did I know it preceded this. Guess I really didn't pay attention to Donovan's lyrics… I'm even more curious now. I want to know why this couldn't or wouldn't have been built before.
- JasonFruit 13y ago
  Similar things were built. If you read German: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geigenwerk https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geigenwerk.
  - gry 13y ago
    I don't. The English version [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geigenwerk https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geigenwerk] suggests the a hurdy-gurdy wheel is in constant contact with strings, while the viola organista allows for a large number of strings to lower on to the wheel, so individual notes strings and notes are played. This seems like he moved technology forward, no?
    - corin_ 13y ago
      The hurdy-gurdy has 4 drone strings and 2 for melodies, so it's a rather similar concept to bagpipes with regards how it plays. Also interesting is the origin of the hurdy-gurdy, the Organistrum: http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organistrum http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organistrum
    - JasonFruit 13y ago
      Seems like it to me, too. Didn't think of that.