11.03.2025

In the heart of his small but vibrant workshop, Alex Zwingmann is revolutionizing the world of the hurdy-gurdy. With nearly four years of dedicated craftsmanship and over fifteen years of playing experience, Alex has transformed his passion for the instrument into a thriving career. But his story isn't just about building beautiful hurdy-gurdies; it's also a testament to the power of quality and collaboration.

Alex's journey began with a simple desire: to continue playing his beloved instrument late into the evening. A neighbor's gentle request for quieter practice led him to the innovative idea of creating an electric hurdy-gurdy, a concept that blossomed into a full-time profession. His deep-seated interest in the mechanics of the instrument, coupled with his background in violin, fueled his drive to explore new possibilities.

Central to Alex's success is his unwavering commitment to quality, particularly when it comes to sound amplification. Recognizing the importance of a superior pickup system, he embarked on a quest to find the perfect solution. This journey led him to SCHERTLER, a decision he describes as "quite clear."

"I was simply thrilled by the sound and also by the possibility of integrating and installing it into the instrument," Alex explains. He primarily utilizes SCHERTLER STAT pickups, praising their ease of installation, precise sound capture, and minimal crosstalk between string groups. The adjustable cork design allows for perfect microphone placement, ensuring optimal sound reproduction.

Beyond the pickups, Alex is equally impressed with SCHERTLER's amplifiers, particularly the wooden models, which complement the aesthetic of his instruments. He highlights the exceptional build quality and sonic performance, making them an integral part of his instruments' setup.

What truly sets SCHERTLER apart, according to Alex, is the company's commitment to direct collaboration with manufacturers. He recounts his initial, almost serendipitous contact with SCHERTLER, which quickly evolved into a strong partnership. "We were immediately on first-name terms, and we simply got along totally well," he says. He also praises the rapid delivery and reliable support from SCHERTLER's regional sales team.

Alex sees a bright future for the hurdy-gurdy, noting its increasing presence in modern music, film, and even unconventional genres like techno and hip-hop. He believes the instrument's versatility and unique sound will continue to captivate audiences for years to come. With SCHERTLER's exceptional products and collaborative spirit, Alex Zwingmann is not just building hurdy-gurdies; he's crafting the soundtrack for their exciting future.

Read more about E-Gurdy here.

Read more about STAT V here.

SCHERTLER TEAM