Discover the Different Types of Accordions - Common and Less Common

Accordions are a type of musical instrument that have been around for centuries. They are popular in many different genres of music, including folk, jazz, and classical. Accordions are known for their unique sound, which is created by the air passing through the reeds inside the instrument. There are many different types of accordions, each with their own unique features and characteristics.

One of the most popular types of accordions is the piano accordion, which features a keyboard on the right-hand side and buttons on the left-hand side. This type of accordion is often used in classical and jazz music. Another popular type of accordion is the button accordion, which features buttons on both the right and left-hand sides. This type of accordion is often used in folk music and is popular in many different countries around the world.

Main Types of Accordions

Accordions are a versatile and popular musical instrument that come in many different types, each with its own unique sound and playing style. Here are the main types of accordions:

Button Accordions

Button accordions, also known as diatonic accordions, are a popular type of accordion in many folk music traditions. They have buttons on the treble side that produce different notes depending on whether the bellows are pushed or pulled. Button accordions are typically smaller and lighter than piano accordions, making them easier to carry around.

There are many different variations of button accordions, including the melodeon, the Cajun accordion, and the Irish accordion. Each variation has its own unique sound and playing style.

Piano Accordions

Piano accordions, also known as chromatic accordions, are a popular type of accordion in many different musical genres, including classical, jazz, and pop. They have a keyboard on the treble side that produces different notes depending on which keys are pressed.

Piano accordions are typically larger and heavier than button accordions, but they have a wider range of notes and a more versatile sound.

There are many different variations of piano accordions, including the standard piano accordion, the chromatic button accordion, and the free-bass accordion. Each variation has its own unique sound and playing style.

Chromatic Accordions

Chromatic accordions are a type of accordion that can play all the notes in the chromatic scale, including sharps and flats. They are typically larger and heavier than diatonic accordions, but they have a wider range of notes and a more versatile sound. Chromatic accordions are popular in many different musical genres, including classical, jazz, and pop.

There are many different variations of chromatic accordions, including the standard chromatic accordion, the bayan accordion, and the Russian garmon accordion. Each variation has its own unique sound and playing style.

Concertina Accordions

Concertina accordions are a type of accordion that has buttons on both the treble and bass sides. They are typically smaller and lighter than piano accordions, making them easier to carry around. Concertina accordions are popular in many different musical genres, including folk, classical, and pop.

There are many different variations of concertina accordions, including the English concertina, the German concertina, and the Anglo concertina. Each variation has its own unique sound and playing style.

See accordion-like instruments here.

Less Common Types of Accordions

Diatonic Accordions

Diatonic accordions are popular in traditional music genres such as Cajun, Zydeco, and Norteño. They are designed to play in a specific key, so the notes on the keyboard change depending on whether the bellows are being pushed or pulled. This means that diatonic accordions are limited in the number of keys they can play in. However, they are still a beloved instrument in many cultures and can produce a unique sound that is difficult to replicate with other types of accordions.

Bandoneon Accordions

Bandoneon accordions are often associated with tango music and have a distinctive square shape. They are typically played by holding the instrument between the knees and using both hands to operate the buttons. Bandoneon accordions have a wide range of notes and can produce a rich, complex sound. They are not as common as other types of accordions, but they are still used by musicians who want to create a unique sound.

Harmonica Accordions

Harmonica accordions, also known as mouth organ accordions, are a type of diatonic accordion that is played by blowing air through the instrument. They are often used in folk music and can produce a distinctive, airy sound. Harmonica accordions are typically smaller than other types of accordions and are easy to carry around, making them a popular choice for musicians who want a portable instrument. Overall, while these types of accordions may not be as well-known as some of the more common types, they still have a dedicated following among musicians who appreciate their unique sound and versatility.

History of Accordions

The history of accordions can be traced back to the early 19th century. The first patented accordion was created in Vienna in 1829 by Cyrill Demian, of Armenian descent. However, the advent of the accordion is the subject of debate among researchers, as some believe that similar instruments existed in China as early as the 2nd millennium BC.

The accordion gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in Europe and North America, where it became a staple of folk and ethnic music. The instrument’s versatility and portability made it a popular choice for musicians, and it has since been used in a wide range of musical genres, including jazz, classical, and rock.

There are three main types of accordions: diatonic, chromatic, and piano. Diatonic accordions are typically used in folk music and have a limited range of notes. Chromatic accordions, on the other hand, have a wider range of notes and are used in a variety of musical genres. Piano accordions are the most common type of accordion and are often used in popular music.

Today, accordions continue to be a popular instrument, with many musicians incorporating them into their music. The instrument has undergone many changes and improvements over the years, but it remains a beloved and iconic part of the musical world.

How to Choose the Right Accordion

Choosing the right accordion can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. Here are some things to consider when selecting an accordion:

Type of Accordion: There are many types of accordions available, including piano accordions, button accordions, chromatic accordions, diatonic accordions, concertinas, digital accordions, and more. Consider the type of music you want to play and choose an accordion that suits your needs.
Size and Weight: Accordions come in different sizes and weights. Consider your physical abilities and choose an accordion that is comfortable for you to play.
Number of Reeds: The number of reeds in an accordion determines its sound. Accordions with more reeds produce a fuller sound, but they can also be heavier and more expensive. Consider your budget and needs when choosing the number of reeds.
Playability: Try out different accordions to determine their playability. Look for an accordion that is easy to play and produces a sound you like.
Condition: Consider the condition of the accordion before purchasing it. Look for any signs of wear and tear and make sure all the keys and buttons work properly.
Customization: Some accordions can be customized with different designs and colors. Consider personalizing your accordion to make it unique and special.