Accordion

An accordion is a bellows-driven reed instrument, sometimes referred to as a ‘squeezebox’. It is played by compressing and expanding the bellows, while pressing buttons or keys to allow air to flow across reeds to produce tones and chords.

Modern accordions consist of a body in two parts, each generally rectangular in shape, separated by a bellows. On each part of the body is a keyboard containing buttons, levers or piano-style keys. When pressed, the buttons travel in a direction perpendicular to the motion of the bellows (towards the performer). Most, but not all, modern accordions also have buttons capable of producing entire chords.

Since the accordion was first patented in 1829, various innovations have been made. New keyboard systems have been developed, as well as voicings (the combination of multiple tones at different octaves), with mechanisms to switch between different voices during performance. There have also been impovements in internal construction to enhance tone, stability and durability.

The accordion is commonly used as part of dance and ceilidh bands in English, Scottish and Irish traditions (although some Welsh folk musicians play the accordian too). It is also heard in Cajun music and in the Polka, thoughout Europe and North and South America.

How can I get involved?

The National Accordian Organisation of the UK has members throughout Britain and Northern Ireland. Contact the Organisation for more details of members and opportunities near you.

National Accordion Organisation of the UK
17 Marsh Mill Village
Thornton
Cleveley
Lancashire FY5 4JZ
Telephone: 01253 822 046
Email: naouk@btinternet.com
Website: www.accordions.com/nao