Unitarian Universalist Society to host hurdy-gurdy concert Oct. 20

LACONIA — Ever heard of a hurdy-gurdy? It is known by many other names — vielle a roue, zanfona, or organistrum — as there is a version of this medieval instrument in just about every European country. But, this instrument has been making a popular comeback? Its unique sound is now heard in everything from popular film scores to rock bands to folk music and back again to its traditional medieval dance music heritage.

On Sunday, Oct. 20, at 4 p.m., at The Unitarian Universalist Society of Laconia you will now be able to immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique instrument. This concert, featuring Noelle Beaudin and Max Enloe, brings you through the ages of the hurdy-gurdy.

Beaudin, a professional piano and organ player, is bringing a modern take to this ancient instrument, the hurdy-gurdy. She presents a contemporary take on the music of this instrument’s past, present and future. This concert will combine the natural sound of the instrument with the new "American" hurdy-gurdy sound Beaudin has been creating for the past several years. There will be singing, playing, story-telling, and laughter.

Beaudin and Enloe will also explain how the instrument works and its capabilities. Their learning extends deep within the community. Both are instrumental in the hurdy gurdy community, as they founded and created gurdyworld.com, the largest online resource for the instrument.  For the past two summers they have hosted and run an East Coast workshop and retreat for the instrument, bringing in players from Spain and Quebec.