Tag Archives: #EarlyMusic

Unlock the Hidden Secrets of Hurdy-Gurdy Mastery This Christmas: Insights from 32 Global Experts

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy


*Your essential guide to deepening your craft — and the perfect Christmas gift for musicians.

If you’ve ever sat down with your hurdy-gurdy and asked, “How do I truly grow as a player?”, then this festive season could be the moment you answer that question once and for all. Whether you’re seeking ways to refine your hurdy-gurdy techniques, expand your musical horizons, or gift yourself something genuinely transformative, there’s one tome on every hurdy-gurdy player’s wishlist: The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing by Quentin Budworth.Quentin Budworth

This isn’t just another hurdy-gurdy book. It’s a rich anthology of insights from 32 world-class players — a place where musicality, craftsmanship, performance, and philosophy converge. Here’s why it should be at the top of your Christmas wish list.Quentin Budworth Musician

🎵 What This Book Is All About

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing isn’t a conventional manual filled with rote exercises. Rather, it’s a curated collection of perspectives from a global community of specialists, each offering their experience on musicality, technique, theory, performance, and more.Quentin Budworth

Each chapter focuses on a different contributor — luminaries like Patrick Bouffard and Matthias Loibner, among others — who share wisdom gained from years of immersion with this fascinating instrument. By reading their reflections, you can tap into knowledge that normally takes years of trial and error to acquire.Quentin Budworth

As described by the author and contributors, the goal is simple: to help you enter the “secret world” of the hurdy-gurdy and come away with inspiration and confidence in your playing.Quentin Budworth

📌 Key Takeaways for Players

Here’s what you’ll discover in the pages of this unique hurdy-gurdy book:

🎼 1. Musicality Beyond Mechanics

Many beginners and even intermediate players focus on mastering the mechanics of the instrument — the crank, the drone, the trompette. This book pushes you further: learning how to make music that speaks, not just notes that sound correct. Contributors discuss phrasing, stylistic expression, and emotional connection — the things that elevate a performance from pleasant to unforgettable.Quentin Budworth

🎻 2. Advanced Techniques and Practice Strategies

Rather than give you a one-size-fits-all regimen, this book presents a mosaic of approaches to technique — from bowing nuances to handling drones and ornamentation. The diversity of viewpoints helps you pick and tailor methods that truly resonate with your playing style.Quentin Budworth Musician

🧠 3. Theory Integrated with Practice

Understanding why something works — not just how it works — is essential for mastery. Contributors share insight into Western and folk theory as it applies to real playing situations, helping you make sense of musical decisions in context.Quentin Budworth

🎤 4. Performance Philosophy and Stagecraft

Playing in a room alone is one thing; connecting with an audience is another. Several contributors offer reflections on performance psychology, audience engagement, and the mindset needed to shine under the spotlight.Quentin Budworth

🤝 5. Cultural & Social Context

The hurdy-gurdy isn’t just an instrument — it’s a living tradition. Insights from around the world help you understand how this instrument fits into different musical cultures, inspiring richer interpretive choices and broader creative horizons.Quentin Budworth

🎁 Why It’s a Must-Have for Advancing Your Skills

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned performer, this book will stretch you. Unlike instructional manuals that teach you to play, The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy teaches you to think and feel in ways that professionals do.

Because each contributor comes from a unique tradition or musical environment, the book becomes a tapestry of techniques, reflections, and perspectives you won’t find in any single teacher or video tutorial. The result? Insights that can unlock new levels in your practice and performance.Quentin Budworth

Add to that the fact that this book has already garnered praise from readers who say they “learn something new from every chapter” and have found it inspiring and rewarding on musical and personal levels — that’s authenticity you don’t always get with generic instruction books.Quentin Budworth Musician

💡 A Perfect Christmas Gift for Musicians

As the festive season approaches, many of us are thinking about meaningful gifts — not just anything off a shelf. For musician friends (or yourself), a book that promises deeper insight into a beloved instrument is thoughtful, practical, and inspiring.

At £24.99 (UK) or $35 (US), it’s both affordable and substantial, with 245 pages of hurdy-gurdy techniques, reflections, and musical inspiration geared toward real progress.Quentin Budworth Musician

Best of all, you can order directly from the author — meaning more of your money goes to the creator and the global hurdy-gurdy community, not a big retailer. Just email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com to get your copy sorted, whether it’s a present for someone else or a gift to yourself.Quentin Budworth

🎊 Festive Motivation to Boost Your Practice

This Christmas, while the carols play and the lights twinkle, why not unwrap not just presents — but potential? Treat yourself to something that will keep giving well beyond the holiday season: deeper motivation, new ideas, and a renewed passion for practice.

Once you’re back in the groove after the festivities, let this book be your companion on the journey to mastery — a reminder that every crank, drone, and melody can be richer, more expressive, and more connected to the global tapestry of hurdy-gurdy artistry.

Email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com today to order your copy — and make this festive season a turning point in your hurdy-gurdy journey!Quentin Budworth Musician

🎁 Why This Is the Perfect Hurdy-Gurdy Christmas Gift

Christmas is a time for reflection, renewal, and inspiration. This book fits naturally into that spirit.

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy

Rather than offering surface-level instruction, The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy invites readers to stand on the shoulders of giants and enter the instrument’s deeper, more meaningful world. It’s ideal for:

  • Dedicated players seeking artistic growth
  • Experienced musicians wanting fresh perspectives
  • Folk musicians who value tradition and innovation
  • Anyone who loves reflective, story-rich music books

If you’re looking for one of the best books for folk musicians, this belongs at the top of the list.

📖 What’s Inside the Book?

The book is structured so that each chapter features a single player, offering focused, personal insight rather than generic advice.

Across its 245 pages, contributors explore:

  • Musicality and expressive depth
  • Playing technique and sound production
  • Theory and practical understanding
  • Practice habits and long-term development
  • Teaching and pedagogy
  • Performance mindset and confidence
  • Social and cultural context of the hurdy-gurdy

The result is a book that delights, enthuses, enlightens, and inspires — even the most experienced hurdy-gurdy players.

As the saying goes: knowledge is power. This book gives every reader more power in their music-making.

🌍 32 World-Class Voices, One Essential Book

One of the book’s greatest strengths is the breadth and diversity of its contributors. Featured players include:

Bruno Andersen, Patrick Bouffard, Nicolas Boulerice, Quentin Budworth, Gilles Chabenat, Germán Díaz, Oscar Fernandez, Abel Garcia, Sergio Gonzales, Stephan Groth, Thomas Hoste, Peter Kanssen, Nicolas Koch Simms, Nicholas Konradsen, Matthias Loibner, Michalina Malisz, Scott Marshall, Rafa Martin, Christian Mohr Levisen, Ruben Monteiro, Ariel Ninas, Sam Palmer, Isabelle Pignol, Etienne Pinoteau, Benoît Roblin, Clare Rose, R.T Taylor, Paul Sherwood, Steve Tyler, Pablo Caamiña Ursusson, Mary Vanhoozer, and Alex Zwingmann.

Together, they represent decades of global hurdy-gurdy experience, condensed into one accessible, readable volume.

⭐ What Readers Are Saying

This is not just a well-researched book — it’s a deeply human one. Reader feedback highlights how inspiring and motivating it is:

“It was really interesting to read about the philosophy and approach to playing the gurdy of such a variety of musicians, and it inspired me to play my gurdy, which is never a bad thing!”
— Wolfie Fiddler

“I’ve skimmed through it and think it’s fantastic.”
— Angel de la Calle

“It’s an excellent book. I learn something new from every chapter!”
— Kevin Holland, multi-instrumentalist

“A fascinating read… with insights from 32 leading players from around the world for anyone who likes people’s stories. Recommended!”
— Lou Dufy-Howard

These testimonials make it clear: this is one of those rare Christmas music books that players actually return to.

🎄 Better Than Generic Music Gifts

Why choose this book over novelty items or mass-market music titles?

  • ✔ Deeply specific to hurdy-gurdy players
  • ✔ Inspires practice during the quiet winter months
  • ✔ Supports an independent author and niche music community
  • ✔ Offers lasting value, not a one-day thrill

Wrapped under the tree, it sends a powerful message: “I see your passion — and I support it.”

📬 How to Order (Direct & Personal)

Ordering directly from the author helps everyone — except Amazon 😉

Price:

  • £24.99 (UK)
  • Delivery in 10–14 days
  • No duty for UK, EU, US, or Canadian customers

How to order:
Email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com with:

  • Your postal address
  • Preferred payment method (PayPal or direct bank transfer)

By ordering directly, you:

  • Increase the author’s royalty
  • Reduce Amazon’s 60% cut
  • Support future hurdy-gurdy publications

And yes — it gives Jeff Bezos a small festive kick in the shin.

❄️ A Christmas Invitation to Players

The wheel is infinite, and life is short. This Christmas, take time to pause, reflect, and learn from those who have travelled far along the path.

Whether you’re gifting it to a loved one or treating yourself, The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy is a book that can transform how you think, practice, and play — making it one of the most meaningful hurdy-gurdy Christmas gifts available today.

📧 Order now: quentinbudworth@yahoo.com

The Perfect Christmas Surprise for Your Hurdy-Gurdy Loving Partner: A Book That Reveals the Instrument’s Secrets

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for a musician can feel daunting—especially when their instrument is as wonderfully niche as the hurdy-gurdy. Strings? Rosin? Another case accessory? Chances are, they already have what they need. What they may not have is something that speaks directly to their passion, curiosity, and love for the instrument’s deeper world.

If your partner, spouse, friend, or family member plays the hurdy-gurdy—or simply loves its hypnotic sound—this Christmas could be your chance to give a gift that truly resonates. Enter The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing by Quentin Budworth: a beautifully thoughtful, 245-page book that goes far beyond a standard instruction manual and into the heart of what it means to live with this extraordinary instrument.

This is not just one of those Christmas music books that gathers dust on a shelf. It’s a gift that inspires, comforts, challenges, and delights—making it one of the most unique musician gifts you can give this festive season.

A Book That Speaks to the Soul of the Instrument

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy is a carefully curated collection of reflections, advice, and stories from 32 internationally respected hurdy-gurdy players. Compiled by musician and researcher Quentin Budworth, the book captures voices from across traditions, countries, and musical backgrounds, offering readers a rare glimpse into the lived experience of hurdy-gurdy musicians.

Rather than focusing purely on technical instruction, this book explores why people play, how they develop their relationship with the instrument, and what the hurdy-gurdy gives back to them emotionally and creatively. It’s a book about craft—but also about identity, curiosity, and community.

That makes it especially perfect for gifts for hurdy-gurdy players from loved ones who may not know the technical details of the instrument but want to give something meaningful.

Why Hurdy-Gurdy Players Love This Book

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its human voice. Each chapter offers a different perspective, allowing readers to dip in and out or read cover to cover during quiet winter evenings.

The contributors include renowned musicians such as Patrick Bouffard and Matthias Loibner, who share insights on musicality, performance, creativity, and the personal journey of musicianship. These aren’t dry academic essays—they’re honest reflections shaped by years of playing, touring, teaching, and listening.

Reader responses highlight this perfectly. As Lou Dufy-Howard writes:

“A fascinating read with insights for anyone who likes people’s stories.”

That’s what makes this book such a special Christmas gift: even non-musicians can appreciate its warmth and storytelling, while players find ideas that spark new motivation and deepen their connection to the instrument.

A Thoughtful Gift That Inspires Passion

If you’ve ever watched your partner light up when talking about their hurdy-gurdy—or disappear into hours of focused practice—you know how deeply personal music can be. This book meets them where they are, whether they’re a beginner finding their footing or a seasoned player refining their voice.

Inside, they’ll discover:

  • Reflections on developing musical expression and confidence
  • Personal stories from players across different traditions
  • Ideas that encourage thoughtful, joyful practice
  • Perspectives that validate the challenges and rewards of playing

It’s the kind of gift that says: “I see how much this matters to you.”

Why This Beats Generic Christmas Gifts 🎁

Let’s be honest—musicians receive a lot of well-meaning but generic gifts. Novelty mugs, mass-produced music books, or accessories that don’t quite fit their setup.

This book stands apart because:

  • It’s deeply personal to hurdy-gurdy players
  • It can’t be easily guessed or duplicated
  • It supports an independent author and niche musical community
  • It offers lasting value, not just a momentary smile

Instead of another object, you’re giving inspiration, validation, and connection—things that musicians crave far more than clutter.

Unlock the Hidden Depths of Hurdy-Gurdy Mastery This Christmas: Insights from 32 Global Experts

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy

If you’re a hurdy-gurdy player serious about improving your craft — or on the hunt for perfect Christmas gifts for musicians — there’s one resource that should top your list this festive season: The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing by Quentin Budworth. This remarkable hurdy-gurdy book isn’t just another method guide — it’s a treasury of wisdom distilled from 32 leading players from around the world, offering unparalleled perspectives on hurdy-gurdy techniques, musicality, performance, and practice.Quentin Budworth Musician

Whether you’re striving to deepen your technical finesse or seeking fresh creative fuel over the holidays, this book delivers. Read on for key takeaways, expert insights, and seasonal motivation to invest in your musical growth.

Why This Hurdy-Gurdy Book Is a Must-Have

There are plenty of introductory manuals out there. But The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy stands apart as an expert-level anthology, blending technical guidance with philosophical reflections on music and performance. Instead of a single author’s viewpoint, each chapter features a different voice — from established masters to visionary practitioners — sharing how they approach music, sound production, ensemble playing, and personal expression.Quentin Budworth Musician

Contributors include internationally recognised players like Patrick Bouffard and Matthias Loibner, alongside many others who bring varied stylistic lenses to the instrument. With such a breadth of voices, this book functions like a year-long masterclass in musicality and technique — essential reading for anyone who’s moved beyond beginner basics and wants to achieve deeper understanding.Quentin Budworth Musician

The book’s structure — one player per chapter — allows you to dip in where inspiration strikes, or follow through as a coherent learning journey. The result is not only a compendium of hurdy-gurdy techniques, but a vivid picture of the instrument’s evolving role in traditional and contemporary music.Quentin Budworth Musician

Key Takeaways: What You’ll Learn

Here’s what players of all levels can expect from this rich collection:

🎶 Musicality Beyond Mechanics

Most instructional guides focus narrowly on mechanics. This book goes beyond that, exploring how to make the hurdy-gurdy sing with emotion and narrative. Contributors share how they shape phrasing, balance drones with melody, and listen deeply to their own sound. Whether you’re preparing for stage or intimate sessions, this perspective shifts your playing from technical to deeply expressive.Quentin Budworth Musician

🔧 Refined Playing Techniques

From precise bowing of the wheel to achieving controlled trompette (buzzing rhythmic sound), players offer insights honed by decades of performance and experimentation. Expect to uncover nuanced tips on:

  • Efficient crank motion
  • Dynamic bow pressure
  • Coordination of drones and melody
  • Fine control of trompette techniques

These detailed observations help bridge the gap between knowing what to do and understanding how and why it works.Quentin Budworth Musician

🎼 Applied Theory and Practice Wisdom

Understanding theory can deepen intuition and improvisational capability. Several contributors break down how harmonic, rhythmic, and stylistic concepts inform their practice. These aren’t dry academic lessons — they’re practical frameworks you can integrate into daily routines.Quentin Budworth Musician

🧠 Practice and Pedagogy from the Pros

One of the most valuable sections is advice on how to practice. Many experienced players share how they structure sessions, stay motivated, build technical consistency, and approach learning new repertoire. Whether you’re a self-taught player or coach others, these insights elevate your practice habits.Quentin Budworth Musician

🎤 Performance and Presence

Playing beautifully isn’t just about notes — it’s about connection. Several contributors explore performance psychology, audience engagement, and how to craft a compelling musical narrative on stage. Their reflections help unlock confidence and authenticity.Quentin Budworth Musician

Expert Voices You’ll Turn Back To Again and Again

Among the distinguished contributors, names like Patrick Bouffard and Matthias Loibner stand out as voices of both technical mastery and expressive depth — making this more than a book of tips, but a dialogue with the instrument. Their chapters read like conversations with mentors, giving you fresh ways to think about phrasing, ornamentation, and musical storytelling.Quentin Budworth Musician

But even beyond those familiar names, the diversity of contributors means you’ll encounter approaches rooted in early music, folk traditions, contemporary improvisation, and cross-genre experimentation. That breadth makes this book continually rewarding — you’ll return to it again and again.Quentin Budworth Musician

Perfect for Holiday Self-Gifting or Gifting to Others

This Christmas, there’s no better way to invest in your artistry than by equipping yourself with knowledge that can transform your playing. For £24.99 (UK) or $35 (US), The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy delivers expert-level insights at a giftable price that any dedicated player will appreciate.Quentin Budworth Musician

Ordering directly from Quentin Budworth not only supports the author and contributors more fairly than big-box retailers, but also helps sustain the global hurdy-gurdy community. It’s a meaningful way to give back to the art form you love — and encourage a thriving musical ecosystem in the process.Quentin Budworth Musician

📫 Ready to get your copy?
Email: quentinbudworth@yahoo.com
Price: £24.99 (UK) / $35 (US)
Delivery: 10–14 days — just in time for Christmas.Quentin Budworth Musician

Holiday Motivation: Gift Yourself Progress

Let’s face it — the best gift you can give a musician isn’t another tuner or metronome. It’s progress. It’s the kind of resource that lights up practice sessions, expands your creative horizons, and makes every turn of the crank feel more intentional. This Christmas, choose growth over gadgets. Choose inspiration over inertia.

🎁 Give yourself or a loved one the gift of deeper musical understanding — because great playing isn’t born in a day, but nurtured through insight, technique, and unending curiosity.

Here’s to a festive season filled with joyful practice, creative breakthroughs, and the resonant hum of hurdy-gurdy strings — may your wheel always turn true. 🎄🎶

Unlock the Hidden Secrets of Hurdy-Gurdy Mastery This Christmas: Insights from 32 Global Experts

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy


*Your essential guide to deepening your craft — and the perfect Christmas gift for musicians.

If you’ve ever sat down with your hurdy-gurdy and asked, “How do I truly grow as a player?”, then this festive season could be the moment you answer that question once and for all. Whether you’re seeking ways to refine your hurdy-gurdy techniques, expand your musical horizons, or gift yourself something genuinely transformative, there’s one tome on every hurdy-gurdy player’s wishlist: The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing by Quentin Budworth.Quentin Budworth

This isn’t just another hurdy-gurdy book. It’s a rich anthology of insights from 32 world-class players — a place where musicality, craftsmanship, performance, and philosophy converge. Here’s why it should be at the top of your Christmas wish list.Quentin Budworth Musician

🎵 What This Book Is All About

The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing isn’t a conventional manual filled with rote exercises. Rather, it’s a curated collection of perspectives from a global community of specialists, each offering their experience on musicality, technique, theory, performance, and more.Quentin Budworth

Each chapter focuses on a different contributor — luminaries like Patrick Bouffard and Matthias Loibner, among others — who share wisdom gained from years of immersion with this fascinating instrument. By reading their reflections, you can tap into knowledge that normally takes years of trial and error to acquire.Quentin Budworth

As described by the author and contributors, the goal is simple: to help you enter the “secret world” of the hurdy-gurdy and come away with inspiration and confidence in your playing.Quentin Budworth

📌 Key Takeaways for Players

Here’s what you’ll discover in the pages of this unique hurdy-gurdy book:

🎼 1. Musicality Beyond Mechanics

Many beginners and even intermediate players focus on mastering the mechanics of the instrument — the crank, the drone, the trompette. This book pushes you further: learning how to make music that speaks, not just notes that sound correct. Contributors discuss phrasing, stylistic expression, and emotional connection — the things that elevate a performance from pleasant to unforgettable.Quentin Budworth

🎻 2. Advanced Techniques and Practice Strategies

Rather than give you a one-size-fits-all regimen, this book presents a mosaic of approaches to technique — from bowing nuances to handling drones and ornamentation. The diversity of viewpoints helps you pick and tailor methods that truly resonate with your playing style.Quentin Budworth Musician

🧠 3. Theory Integrated with Practice

Understanding why something works — not just how it works — is essential for mastery. Contributors share insight into Western and folk theory as it applies to real playing situations, helping you make sense of musical decisions in context.Quentin Budworth

🎤 4. Performance Philosophy and Stagecraft

Playing in a room alone is one thing; connecting with an audience is another. Several contributors offer reflections on performance psychology, audience engagement, and the mindset needed to shine under the spotlight.Quentin Budworth

🤝 5. Cultural & Social Context

The hurdy-gurdy isn’t just an instrument — it’s a living tradition. Insights from around the world help you understand how this instrument fits into different musical cultures, inspiring richer interpretive choices and broader creative horizons.Quentin Budworth

🎁 Why It’s a Must-Have for Advancing Your Skills

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned performer, this book will stretch you. Unlike instructional manuals that teach you to play, The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy teaches you to think and feel in ways that professionals do.

Because each contributor comes from a unique tradition or musical environment, the book becomes a tapestry of techniques, reflections, and perspectives you won’t find in any single teacher or video tutorial. The result? Insights that can unlock new levels in your practice and performance.Quentin Budworth

Add to that the fact that this book has already garnered praise from readers who say they “learn something new from every chapter” and have found it inspiring and rewarding on musical and personal levels — that’s authenticity you don’t always get with generic instruction books.Quentin Budworth Musician

💡 A Perfect Christmas Gift for Musicians

As the festive season approaches, many of us are thinking about meaningful gifts — not just anything off a shelf. For musician friends (or yourself), a book that promises deeper insight into a beloved instrument is thoughtful, practical, and inspiring.

At £24.99 (UK) or $35 (US), it’s both affordable and substantial, with 245 pages of hurdy-gurdy techniques, reflections, and musical inspiration geared toward real progress.Quentin Budworth Musician

Best of all, you can order directly from the author — meaning more of your money goes to the creator and the global hurdy-gurdy community, not a big retailer. Just email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com to get your copy sorted, whether it’s a present for someone else or a gift to yourself.Quentin Budworth

🎊 Festive Motivation to Boost Your Practice

This Christmas, while the carols play and the lights twinkle, why not unwrap not just presents — but potential? Treat yourself to something that will keep giving well beyond the holiday season: deeper motivation, new ideas, and a renewed passion for practice.

Once you’re back in the groove after the festivities, let this book be your companion on the journey to mastery — a reminder that every crank, drone, and melody can be richer, more expressive, and more connected to the global tapestry of hurdy-gurdy artistry.

Email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com today to order your copy — and make this festive season a turning point in your hurdy-gurdy journey!Quentin Budworth Musician

A Feast for the Mind (and the Ears): Thanksgiving with the Hurdy-Gurdy

The turkey has been carved, the pie has been demolished, and the house is finally quieting down.

For many of us, the holidays are a time to pause and reflect on what we are grateful for. This year, alongside family and health, I’m finding myself incredibly grateful for the music—and the community of players—that keeps this ancient instrument alive.

But why should the feasting stop at the dinner table?

If you are looking to feed your creativity this long weekend, I have something special for you. The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes on Playing is more than just a method book; it’s a gathering of wisdom.

Think of it as inviting over 30 of the world’s best players to your table to share their secrets. From the nitty-gritty of technique to the philosophy of sound, this book is packed with the kind of “insider knowledge” that usually takes years to learn on your own.

A Special Thanksgiving Treat 🦃

Email: quentinbudworth@yahoo.com to order your copy

Don’t let your playing get cold this winter. Grab a slice of wisdom, curl up on the sofa, and discover the secret life of your instrument.

Eat, drink, and be cranberry!

Happy Thanksgiving,
[Your Name/Quentin]

The Christmas Gift Your Nerdy-gurdy Is Begging For

Hello fellow Nerdy-gurdy builder!

As an experienced hurdy-gurdy teacher, I am a huge fan of the Nerdy-gurdy and can highly recommend it to anyone starting on their hurdy-gurdy journey! I’ve had several new students bring their Nerdy-Gurdy for lessons and have been really impressed by their playability and sound quality. They just work and play beautifully.

Congratulations on assembling your instrument—that’s a milestone worth celebrating! Now comes the exciting part: bringing it to life with music. If you’re discovering that playing the hurdy-gurdy involves more nuance than turning a crank, you’re in excellent company. The learning curve is real, but the right guide changes everything.

“Secret Life of the Hurdy-gurdy: Field Notes on Playing” is the book your Nerdy-gurdy wishes you’d read. This isn’t a dry manual—it’s a 245-page masterclass featuring 32 of the world’s leading players sharing their distilled wisdom, one insightful chapter at a time. For Nerdy-gurdy owners specifically, it’s pure gold:

  • Technique made practical
  • Troubleshooting and set-up advice that works.
  • Musicality from day one

The Perfect Christmas Present

Whether you’re treating yourself or dropping hints to loved ones, this book is the ideal gift for any Nerdy-gurdy owner. It’s the present that pays dividends in progress, confidence, and finally hearing the music you imagined during those assembly hours.

Why Order Direct?

Ordering directly from me at quentinbudworth@yahoo.com does more than get you a book:

  • More support for the author (and less for Jeff Bezos—every little helps!)
  • No import duties for EU, US, Canadian, or UK customers
  • 10-14 day delivery—perfect timing for Christmas
  • Join the community: I keep a reader database for future updates and publications

How to Order

Simply email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com with:

  1. Your postal address
  2. Preferred payment method (PayPal or Direct Bank Transfer)

I’ll send payment details right back. Easy.

What Readers Are Saying

“I learn something new from every chapter!” – Kevin Holland, multi-instrumentalist

“It’s the missing manual. The difference between struggling and playing.” – Wolfie Fiddler

“A fascinating read… insights from 32 leading players from around the world. Nice one Q!” – Lou Dufy-Howard

Don’t let your Nerdy-gurdy gather dust. Give it (and yourself) the gift of music this Christmas.

Email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com today to secure your copy.

Warmly, Quentin Budworth

P.S. Gift vouchers available if you’d like to let someone choose their own musical adventure via zoom lessons or a hurdy-gurdy experience! Order by December 12th for guaranteed Christmas delivery.

If you haven’t got a Nerdy-Gurdy you can get one from here https://www.nerdygurdy.nl/

The Perfect Gurdy Gift

Struggling to find the perfect Christmas present for the hurdy-gurdy player in your life? This year, give them an experience they’ll treasure forever: the gift of personalised hurdy-gurdy lessons with expert Quentin Budworth.

Forget novelty mugs and festive socks. A gift voucher for one-to-one tuition with a world-class instructor is a truly unique and thoughtful present that will help them unlock their musical potential. Whether they are a complete beginner or an advanced player, Quentin’s tailored tuition can help them reach their goals.

The Perfect Present for Any Hurdy-Gurdy Player, Anywhere

One of the greatest advantages of these lesson vouchers is their flexibility. Quentin offers tuition to players of all abilities and interests, both in-person and online via Skype. This means that no matter where your loved one is in the world, they can benefit from his extensive knowledge and supportive teaching style.

Quentin’s expertise spans a vast range of musical traditions. Having studied with leading hurdy-gurdy players and folk musicians from across Europe—including France, Spain, Crete, Germany, and Holland—he can teach a wide variety of styles, dances, rhythms, and ornamentation techniques. His students learn not just how to play, but how to express themselves through this fascinating instrument.

Learn from a Master of the Hurdy-Gurdy

Quentin Budworth is more than just a teacher; he is a highly respected musician who has dedicated his life to the hurdy-gurdy. He has studied with some of the most renowned players in the world, including German Díaz, Gilles Chabenat, and Efren Lopez, to name just a few.

His passion for the instrument is infectious, and his patient and knowledgeable teaching style has been praised by students from all walks of life. As one student, Sarah from West Somerset, shared: “Thanks Quentin, for your patience and knowledgeable and comfortable teaching style, and for the delicious lunch!” Another student, Angela Harley, highly recommends Quentin for those who “want to learn and have fun!”

Gift Vouchers for Every Budget

There is a lesson package to suit every need and budget, making it an accessible gift for anyone.

  • Individual Lessons: £40 per hour.
  • Skype Lessons: £40 per lesson, with an additional 15 minutes to ensure a smooth connection.
  • “Zero to Hero” Intensive Day: For those looking for a truly immersive experience, this full-day, five-hour session includes lunch and is priced at £200.

How to Purchase Your Gift Voucher

Ready to give the gift of music this Christmas? To book a lesson or purchase a gift voucher, simply call 07877434739 or email quentinbudworth@yahoo.com.

This festive season, move beyond the material and give a gift that truly resonates. A voucher for hurdy-gurdy lessons with Quentin Budworth is an investment in passion, a catalyst for creativity, and a unique opportunity for a musician to deepen their connection with their instrument.