"In order to play musically and express themselves, a violin player must spend years perfecting their intonation and bowing technique. In contrast, a hurdy gurdy player achieves much of their sonic expression and stylistic refinement in the selection, preparation, and set-up of an instrument, inventing time and technical skills before playing to ensure good sound and function." (Lommel and Nagy n.d.)

Originally the Hurdy-Gurdy was a two-person instrument but due to humankinds increased knowledge and crafting techniques we have been able to make a Hurdy-Gurdy into a one-person instrument. The Hurdy-Gurdy has been known by many names between all the different cultures that have made it and attributed to its continued development. It is classified as a Vielle being a string instrument (bowed), but has also been known as an Organistrum, Wheel Fiddle, Wheel Vielle, and Zanfona.

 Below we will go into a brief overview of the workings of the more modern designed Hurdy-Gurdy's. 

​