4 ms·

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

• 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.