The Hurdy Gurdy is a fascinating instrument which dates back to
medieval times.  It is a string instrument with a wheel which sets  several
melody and drone stings vibrating together.  The melody stings are stopped
by tangents attached to sliding keys.  It appeared first in Spain about 1150
and also appeared in England and France.  During the period between the
14th and the 16th centuries, music underwent great changes.  With the
development of harmony, its constant drone sound, found itself obsolete and
was referred to as a beggar's instrument during this time, as it was played  by
beggars, peasants and the blind.  It was also the instument played by the
"Hurdy-Gurdy Girls" who lived lives as itinerant peddlers, hucksters,
dancers and prostitutes.  It was known as a "whore's lyre."  Today, we
associate it with the street musician known as the "organ grinder."