Description

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The hurdy-gurdy, or vielle, has been part of European musical life since the eleventh century. In eighteenth-century France, improvements in its sound and appearance led to its use in chamber ensembles. This new and expanded edition of The Hurdy-Gurdy in Eighteenth-Century France offers the definitive introduction to the classic stringed instrument. Robert A. Green discusses the techniques of playing the hurdy-gurdy and the interpretation of its music, based on existing methods and on his own experience as a performer. The list of extant music includes new pieces discovered within the last decade and provides new historical context for the instrument and its role in eighteenth-century French culture.

About the Author

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Robert A. Green is Professor Emeritus of Music at Northern Illinois University and has performed the baroque repertory for hurdy-gurdy throughout the United States, France, and Israel. He has made two recordings of eighteenth-century French music for hurdy-gurdy for the Focus label. Since 1995 he has taught a workshop devoted to this music.