You’ve dedicated years to the hurdy-gurdy, mastered its intricacies, and carved out your own musical voice. Your trompette sings, your melodies flow, and you command the instrument with confidence. But even for the most accomplished musician, the journey of artistic growth is perpetual. Where do you find fresh inspiration, deeper conceptual understanding, or the subtle insights that can elevate your art even further?
For seasoned players seeking to explore the nuanced philosophies and diverse approaches within the global hurdy-gurdy community, “The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy: Field Notes On Playing” by Quentin Budworth offers a compelling new resource.
Beyond Technique: A Dialogue with Masters
This book transcends basic instruction. It is a collection of “distilled knowledge, reflections and insights from hurdy-gurdy players engaged with diverse traditions and contemporary practices.” For the advanced player, this translates into a unique opportunity to engage with the minds of peers and established masters.
With a different player featured in each chapter, you’ll gain access to high-level discussions and perspectives on:
- Artistic Musicality: Exploring the philosophical underpinnings of interpretation, expression, and stylistic innovation.
- Refined & Innovative Technique: Delving into the subtleties and perhaps unconventional approaches that define expert playing.
- Applied Theory & Composition: Understanding how leading players integrate theoretical knowledge into their unique musical creations and arrangements.
- The Art of Practice & Pedagogy: Gaining insights into the practice methodologies of highly skilled musicians and diverse teaching philosophies, invaluable for both personal development and for those who teach.
- Performance as Artistry: Perspectives on stagecraft, audience engagement, and the conceptualisation of performance.
- The Hurdy-Gurdy in Contemporary Contexts: Exploring the instrument’s evolving role across genres and its place in modern artistic expression.
The book explicitly aims to “delight, enthuse, enlighten and inspire even the most experienced hurdy-gurdy player,” suggesting a depth that will resonate with those already proficient. It’s an invitation to “stand on the shoulders of giants” and engage with the rich tapestry of thought that defines the instrument at its highest levels.
An Unparalleled Gathering of Expertise
This is where “The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy” truly shines for the advanced player. It’s an opportunity to engage with the minds of your peers and mentors. The book features writing and interviews with over 30 highly respected international players, including names you’ll undoubtedly recognize: Bruno Andersen, Patrick Bouffard, Nicolas Boulerice, Quentin Budworth, Gilles Chabenat, Germán Díaz, Oscar Fernandez, Matthias Loibner, Michalina Malisz, Isabelle Pignol, Benoît Roblin, Steve Tyler, Pablo Caamiña Ursusson, Mary Vanhoozer, and many more. This lineup promises a rich and varied exploration of the instrument.
Insights from Fellow Professionals & Enthusiasts:
Early feedback highlights the book’s depth:
- ‘Hi, I just wanted to say thank you for the excellent book. 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
- ‘It’s an excellent book. I learn something new from every chapter!’ – Kevin Holland, multi-instrumentalist. (A sentiment many advanced players will appreciate!)
- ‘There’s an immense amount of work there and it’s a credit to you. Thanks also for the occasional name check!’ – Neil Brook, Luthier. (Recognition from a respected maker.)
- ‘A fascinating read. Not only for hurdy-gurdy players and other musicians, but with insights from 32 leading players from around the world, for anyone who likes people’s stories. Recommended! Nice one Q!’ – Lou Dufy-Howard
Acquire This Unique Collection & Support Independent Artistry
“The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy” (ISBN: 978-1-0684248-0-9) is a substantial 245-page paperback.
- Price: UK £24.99 + £5.)) P&P
- Official Launch Date: May 1st, 2025
- Access it Now: Pre-launch copies are currently available directly from the author, Quentin Budworth.
Why order direct?
- Ensure the author receives a fair share of the proceeds (as opposed to Amazon’s significant cut).
- Enable Quentin to maintain a direct connection with his readership for future projects.
- A small, satisfying act of supporting independent creators (and, as Quentin notes, “give a billionaire, Jeff Bezos, a little kick in the shin!”).
How to Order Directly:
Email Quentin Budworth at quentinbudworth@yahoo.com with:
- Your postal address
- Your preferred payment method (PayPal or Direct Bank Transfer)
He will then provide payment details.
For the advanced hurdy-gurdy player seeking not just information, but inspiration, intellectual stimulation, and a deeper connection to the global community of dedicated artists, “The Secret Life of the Hurdy-Gurdy” promises to be an invaluable and thought-provoking addition to your library.
Quentin Budworth Musician 