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