The Cantareel Is A Unique Musical Instrument That Combines Elements Of A Guitar & Hurdy-Gurdy

The Cantareel Developed by Japanese inventor Keizo Ishibashi, the Cantareel is a rotating guitar attachment that produces a sound reminiscent of a hurdy-gurdy by using a spinning wheel to excite the strings. Unlike traditional hurdy-gurdies, which have the wheel inside the soundbox, the Cantareel keeps its wheel outside, allowing for a different approach to sound production.
The Cantareel was inspired by the hurdy-gurdy, an ancient European instrument that dates back to the 11th century. The name "Cantareel" is derived from the Italian word "cantare," meaning "to sing," and "reel," a tool for winding film or tape, reflecting the joy of turning the handle and playing as if singing.
This innovative instrument allows musicians to create a continuous fluctuation of sound that is unlike that of a traditional guitar. It can be used to play more than five strings if they are secured in some way, although playing all six strings can result in a muddy sound. The Cantareel is designed to be mounted on a guitar, and it requires regular maintenance, such as wiping off rosin particles and ensuring the loops are in good condition.
The Cantareel represents a blend of tradition and innovation, offering musicians a new sonic landscape that combines the haunting drone of a hurdy-gurdy with the melodic versatility of a guitar. It has been praised for its ability to produce a rich, sustained tone and has been showcased in performances of classic folk songs.