Programme Note

Guilhem Desq breathes new life into the hurdy-gurdy; a mediaeval instrument played by turning a crank which rotates a wheel acting like a violin bow. Desq plays an electric version of the instrument and has been nicknamed the ‘Hendrix of the hurdy-gurdy’. Thanks to the agility of his technique, Desq can play a wide variety of genres on his electric hurdy-gurdy including traditional European folk, Middle-Eastern music, contemporary rock, hip-hop, electro, heavy metal, and house. Desq travels the world telling stories using his trusted instrument, but the virtuoso of the hurdy-gurdy has also found a loyal fanbase online, with his YouTube videos raking in millions of views.

Biography

Guilhem Desq

Guilhem Desq transforms the hurdy-gurdy (a medieval instrument) into a timeless orchestra with ingenuity and a touch of electronics. His music takes us on a journey - like the soundtrack of an imaginary film. An electric odyssey to across fantasy lands where the Traditional joins the Electronic and where Heavy Metal elbows with the most dancing House. Desq’s relationship with this instrument can be traced back to his childhood when he learned how to play at the age of eight, thanks to the influence of his father who was a seasoned luthier of the hurdy-gurdy. Today Desq travels the world narrating stories with his trusted instrument. His virtuosity on the hurdy-gurdy has also acquired an online fanbase with his YouTube videos raking millions of views.

Disclaimer

Concessions are applicable to senior citizens (over 60 years), persons with disability, students (on presentation of student card), European Youth Card holders, and children between 8 and 12 years.

Only the Parterre Boxes are accessible to wheelchairs.

Some Boxes and Parterre Boxes have limited visibility, as indicated in the seating plan. These will be sold at a reduced price (Concession not applicable).