Smithsonian Folkways Recordings is the nonprofit record label of the Smithsonian Institution the national museum of the United States. They are dedicated to supporting cultural diversity and increased understanding among peoples through the documentation preservation and dissemination of sound. Folkways Records believe that musical and cultural diversity contributes to the vitality and quality of life throughout the world. Through the dissemination of audio recordings and educational materials Folkways Records seek to strengthen people s engagement with their own cultural heritage and to enhance their awareness and appreciation of the cultural heritage of others. Our mission is the legacy of Moses Asch who founded Folkways Records in 1948 to document “people s music ” spoken word instruction and sounds from around the world. The Smithsonian acquired Folkways from the Asch estate in 1987 and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings has continued the Folkways commitment to cultural diversity education increased understanding and lively engagement with the world of sound.

The hurdy gurdy often called a wheel fiddle is often heard in the folk music of central France. In the region of Auvergne many people still play the hurdy gurdy in addition to other folk instruments to perpetuate the French tradition. Henry Vasson is one of the defenders of traditional music. With this album he introduces listeners to the sounds of the hurdy gurdy as well as his own passion for folk music.

French (France)

La viele est un instrument que l on peut habituellement entendre dans les chansons populaires du centre de la France. Dans la region d Auvergne quelques irreductibles continuent d en jouer ainsi que d autres instruments folkloriques pour perpetuer cette tradition française. Henry Vasson est un de ces defenseurs du patrimoine musical. Avec cet album il initie l auditeur au son de la viele mais partage aussi sa propre passion pour la musique d autrefois.