Is Wheel Song right for me? 

Do you love playing the hurdy gurdy? Are you eager to discover new tunes and learn how to play them? Are you excited for opporutnities to learn alongside like-minded gurdy enthusiasts? If the answers to these questions are a resounding 'yes!' then this festival will be your cup of tea! We welcome advanced beginners to seasoned players to join us in learning a beautiful repertoire of tunes: we are committed to nurturing a friendly, encouraging, and inspiring environment for both players and observers to learn and grow.

What can I expect from the workshops?

We recommend you watch the tutorial video (see below) to get a sense for the level of music we will be learning, as well as the sort of instruction and pacing that will be offered. While the tune in the video is not one of the selected tunes, it is similar to what you can expect. Obviously, we will have more than ten minutes to learn a new tune so if you can't play it perfectly by the end of the video, don't panic! 

How much time will I have to prepare music?

While we are still working on finalizing some of our musical selections, we have sent out the repertoire to our registered participants for two of our classes. The rest will be sent out very soon. We understand that participants would like time to prepare: music will be sent out three weeks prior to the festival at the very latest. 

Is my Hurdy Gurdy compatible with the workshop's tuning?

This year, we are playing in G/C tuning.  Our melody strings will be tuned to G. So, if you have a G melody string, you will have no problem participating.

I am not available for the whole three days, does this mean I can't sign up for the festival?

We understand that schedules get busy and we want to help you honor your prior commitments. At the same time, we would love to help you "get your cake and eat it too!" It is possible to attend the festival for one or two days only: for example, you can attend Friday (which is a half day), skip Saturday, and come back Sunday. Our registration form allows you select the specific day(s) that works for you.

I don't have a hurdy gurdy but I'd love to attend. Is that a possibility?

Yes indeed! We have received inquiries from folks who either have no instrument, or are waiting on one that has not yet arrived. For this reason, we have opened up our festival to spectators. The fee for attending as a spectator is $150 total. It is also possible to sign up for one or two days (each day is $50).

Where is the festival taking place?

We are so grateful to Elmhurst University for hosting our festival this summer! We will be using large classrooms and the recital hall in Irion Hall (190 Prospect Ave, Elmhurst IL). There is plenty of parking, but be prepared for a one to two minute walk from the parking lot to the music building. For those who need it we also have accessible parking available for Irion Hall.

I'm coming from out of town, what are some housing options?

Our suggestion is that you find a place close by as our activities begin at 8:00am. For hotel rooms under $100 a night, check out Extended Stay America Suites: there's one in Elmhurst (550 W Grand Ave, Elmhurst, 60126) and Lombard (2701 Technology Dr, Lombard, 60148).

Where is the faculty concert taking place, and can I invite friends and family?

The faculty concert is free and open to the public, so yes please invite friends and family to come. It will be Friday, June 27th at 7:30pm at the Armerding recital hall at Wheaton College (520 E. Kenilworth Ave, Wheaton, IL).