First off, I didn't know the hurdy-gurdy was an instrument, nor did I know it preceded this. Guess I really didn't pay attention to Donovan's lyrics…
I'm even more curious now. I want to know why this couldn't or wouldn't have been built before.
Re:Da Vinci's String Organ
by JasonFruit on Wednesday December 25, 2013 @11:14PM
(#6965235)
Similar things were built. If you read German: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geigenwerk.
I don't. The English version [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geigenwerk] suggests the a hurdy-gurdy wheel is in constant contact with strings, while the viola organista allows for a large number of strings to lower on to the wheel, so individual notes strings and notes are played.
This seems like he moved technology forward, no?
The hurdy-gurdy has 4 drone strings and 2 for melodies, so it's a rather similar concept to bagpipes with regards how it plays.
Also interesting is the origin of the hurdy-gurdy, the Organistrum: http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organistrum
Re:Da Vinci's String Organ
by JasonFruit on Thursday December 26, 2013 @10:09AM
(#6966452)
Seems like it to me, too. Didn't think of that.
Still, though, it makes a pleasant, musically useful sound. I wonder how hard it is to keep in adjustment; it seems like it would be touchy (just like the hurdy-gurdy).