The Hurdy-Gurdy
The Hurdy-Gurdy string instrument produces sound by a hand crank that turns a rosined wheel. The wheel rubs against the strings and functions much like a violin bow. Melodies are played on a keyboard that presses small wedges against one or more of the strings to change their pitch. Like most other acoustic stringed instruments, it has a sound board and hollow cavity to make the strings' vibrations audible.
Most Hurdy-Gurdies have multiple drone strings, which give a constant pitch accompanied by the melody, resulting in a sound similar to that of bagpipes. The Hurdy-Gurdy is generally thought to have originated from fiddles in either Europe or the Middle East before the eleventh century. During the Renaissance, the Hurdy-Gurdy was an extremely popular instrument, and its characteristic form had a short neck and a boxy body with a curved tail end.
This would be a spectacular instrument to add to the game, as its unique sounds and rich history open many opportunities for something other than the traditional lute, flute, guitar, or violin. Attached are a few images of the instrument and what it looks like when held by an individual. I also attached a video showcasing what the instrument can sound like when played by a professional.
https://youtu.be/bvNZeh6f8vE?si=OYxJD8EVCc4cJk21https://youtube.com/watch?v=0dPHRxvs3KYhttps://youtube.com/watch?v=234lAy5eZyM

