I have a home-built hurdy-gurdy based on a presumed 15th c. style
(plans from a reputable early instrument luthier in California). Having no
symps or trompette, it is probably more like a symphonie, but with a large,
flat-back, lute-shaped body instead of the symphonie's simple box. String
length is 438 mm (17.25 in) chanterelle, 457 mm (18 in) drones. Tuning:
chanter d' (keyed in G); drones (from top down) g, d, G. (I hope that style
of designation is clear--d' a tone above middle c = c'.)
I've been through several string gauges on the chanter, working to
get the clearest tone, but at best it tends to be squawky at the high end of
the register. Currently I'm using 0.94 mm (.037 in) gut. Yes, I have been
working on my cottoning, rosining and shimming techniques!
The question--with its longer than normal h-g string length, I
wonder if I might do well to drop the instrument (in pitch, not bodily!) to
a C gurdy with a heavier chanter tuned to g, drones c, G, C. I think the
body size of this beasty would support the lower pitch, but I have no idea
of relationship between scale length, tone clarity and suitable pitch--i.e.,
is the scale perhaps to long to produce good high notes with tangents and
the limited pressure they function under? I know it doesn't make as much
difference on fingerboard instruments, but gurdy is more like a bowed
clavichord.
Thanks an regards,
Leonard Williams
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