An instrument invented by Leonardo Da Vinci more than 500 years was
never actually built -- until now.  The Viola Organista was built by
Slawomir Zubrzycki using Da Vinci's design.

http://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/music/leonardo-da-vincis-wacky-piano-is-heard-for-the-first-time-after-500-years-20131118-2xpqs.html 

   "'This instrument has the characteristics of three we know: the
   harpsichord, the organ and the viola da gamba,' Zubrzycki said as he
   debuted the instrument at the Academy of Music in the southern Polish
   city of Krakow."

The instrument plays by use of spinning wheels wrapped in horse-hair
tails, like violin bows.  This is similar to the way that a Hupfeld
Phonoliszt Violina is played.  It also shows similarities to a Mills
Violano Virtuoso.

How wonderful to hear at last an instrument that was invented by Da Vinci
more than 500 years ago!

Joyce Brite