Come experience the unique sound of the hurdy-gurdy with Mary Vanhoozer, live at The World Music Foundation Listening Room!

Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Mary developed an early love for folk music through Scottish fiddle and later discovered the hurdy-gurdy through the traditional music of her mother’s native southern France. Today, she performs repertoire ranging from medieval dances and Renaissance music to French Baroque suites and folk traditions, and is a member of the Ciaramella Ensemble and Newberry Consort.

Dating back to medieval Europe, the hurdy-gurdy is a string instrument unlike any other. Instead of a bow, a hand turned wheel continuously rubs the strings, while a keyboard changes the melody notes to create it distinct, resonant sound.