The craft of the hurdy-gurdy and epinet maker:
A journey through sound and craftsmanship
In a world where mass production and technology are becoming increasingly dominant, there are craftsmen who remain true to age-old traditions. One such special craftsman is the musical instrument maker who specializes in the making of hurdy-gurdies and dulcimers. This craft requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of both woodworking and music. In this blog post, we delve deeper into the art of building these unique instruments, and explore why handmade musical instruments continue to have such a great appeal.
​The Hurdy-Gurdy: An Ancient Instrument with a Unique Sound
The hurdy-gurdy is an instrument with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The instrument works with a wheel that strikes the strings, producing a sound often compared to that of a bagpipe. The instrument consists of a complex interplay of mechanisms, strings and wood, with each component having to be finely tuned to create the correct tone and resonance.
For a craftsman, the process begins with the selection of the wood. Each type of wood has its own timbre, which has a direct influence on the sound of the hurdy-gurdy. The builder carefully selects wood that is not only sustainable, but also has the desired acoustic properties. Then follows the cutting, shaping and gluing of the various parts, such as the sound box, the keyboard and the turning wheel. These parts are processed and matched to each other with millimetre precision.
The dulcimer: A refined and elegant plucked instrument
In addition to the hurdy-gurdy, there is also the dulcimer, another historical instrument with a charm all of its own. The dulcimer is a small plucked instrument. It became popular all over Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries and is known for its bright and sparkling sound. Building a dulcimer requires an exceptional eye for detail. The keys, strings and sound box must be perfectly matched to obtain the delicate and expressive sound for which the instrument is known.
When making a dulcimer, the choice of materials again plays a crucial role. Ebony is often used for the fretboard, while the sound box is made of lighter woods such as maple or spruce. Each string is carefully tensioned and tuned, with the builder striving to create a harmonious whole.
Handmade vs. Mass Production: The Importance of Craftsmanship
What makes these handmade instruments so special is the personal attention and dedication that goes into each piece. In contrast to mass production, where efficiency and uniformity are key, artisan builders focus on the uniqueness of each instrument. No two hurdy-gurdies or epinets are exactly the same. Each instrument has its own character, shaped by the craftsmanship, experience and artistic eye of the builder.
For many musicians, a handcrafted instrument offers something special: a deeper sense of connection to their instrument. They appreciate the subtle nuances of sound, the aesthetic beauty, and the knowledge that their instrument was made with care and passion.
For a craftsman, the process begins with the selection of the wood. Each type of wood has its own timbre, which has a direct influence on the sound of the hurdy-gurdy. The builder carefully selects wood that is not only sustainable, but also has the desired acoustic properties. Then follows the cutting, shaping and gluing of the various parts, such as the sound box, the keyboard and the turning wheel. These parts are processed and matched to each other with millimetre precision.
Preserving an age-old craft
In an era where crafts are becoming increasingly rare, the work of this instrument maker is invaluable. By continuing to practice and pass on old techniques, the knowledge of traditional musical instruments remains alive. At the same time, there is room for innovation and personal interpretation, which allows the craft to continue to develop.
For those looking for an instrument with a story, a soul and a unique character, a handmade hurdy-gurdy or epinet is the perfect choice. These instruments carry not only the sounds of the past, but also the dedication and craftsmanship of the maker who brought them to life.
Whether you are an experienced musician or just starting your musical journey, the world of handmade musical instruments offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich history and unparalleled craftsmanship of traditional crafts.
