Mary Vanhoozer

Mary Vanhoozer serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Music at Elmhurst University and is a member of the critically acclaimed Ciaramella ensemble. Originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, she developed her musical foundation learning Scottish fiddle and was introduced to the hurdy gurdy through traditional noëls from southern France.

Her research interests include:

• Historical performance practices across multiple eras
• Folk music traditions with emphasis on Scottish and French repertoires
• Specialized expertise in hurdy gurdy performance from medieval dances to French baroque
• Community engagement through music education and performance
• Transcription and adaptation of historical music for contemporary performance

Her scholarly recordings demonstrate deep engagement with both historical performance practice and folk traditions, bridging academic musicology with practical performance. The recordings span traditional folk tunes and classical keyboard works, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to music scholarship.

Her notable recognition includes:

• Finalist in the American Prize Competition in 2022 for her Bach recording

As an educator, Dr. Vanhoozer encourages students to deepen their musical understanding, share live music with communities, and appreciate performance craft. She co-directs the Wheel Song Hurdy Gurdy Festival, extending her impact beyond the university setting. Her professional activities include maintaining an active performance schedule, scholarly publications like 'Playford's Wheel' (featuring 70 English country dance tunes for hurdy gurdy), and ongoing research into historical music traditions.