Kathleen Schlesinger

“ The hurdy-gurdy originated in France at the time when the Paris School or Old French School was laying the foundations of counterpoint and polyphony. During the 13th and 14th centuries it was known by the name of Symphonia or Chyfonie, and in Germany Lira or Leyer. Its popularity remained undiminished in France until late in the 18th century. ”

“ Ital. lira tedesca, lira rustica, lira pagana) , now loosely used as a synonym for any grinding organ, but strictly a medieval drone instrument with strings set in vibration by the friction. of a wheel, being a development of the organistrum (q.v.) reduced in size so that it could be conveniently played by one person instead of two. ”