Hurdy Gurdy Notes from Chicago

    Ida Noyce Hall, the site of the 54^th University of Chicago Folk Festival last weekend rang with the music of guitars, banjos, fiddles, hurdy-gurdies, the human voice singing shanty songs and Shape notes.  The college and several buildings date back as far as the 1890’s and the musical instruments playing in the halls even farther.

    Along with all the classes gathering in the various rooms, there were jam sessions both large and small continually drawing visitors to stop and listen. Some burst into dance while others pulled their instruments from cases and joined the jamming.

   The Hurdy-Gurdy class was led by Gary Plazyk, with the help of Vince Nichols, and Mel Dorries. An intriguing collection of technique, history, a song or two and then more ‘getting to know the gurdy’ including answers to questions such as what makes the sound, why are you cranking it,  and how old is the instrument, all made the hour too short. After the session Mel jammed with various groups while I listened and enjoyed the music. Yes, I don’t play only help build. That leaves my hands free at the festivals to clap and sing! 

We went back on Sunday for more jamming, pleased to find that the gurdy was well accepted in the variety of jamming instruments. Of course Mel had the new Maestro with a mellow sound that blends well with the variety of instruments found in each jamming group.

Monday afternoon found us standing in line in Union Station waiting at gate F for Amtrak train heading to Lapeer, MI. Meanwhile another snow storm raged outside sending air line ticket holders scrambling for a seat in the train instead. Cancelled trains, delayed and full trains   a made the trip home long and a bit exciting! In spite of it all we can’t wait for the next festival and have been invited back to Chicago next February…Wait did I say February?