How to Strap an Accordion

Accordion straps come in different sizes, just like accordions.

Keyboard accordions are quite heavy — a strap helps to distribute the weight and makes it easier to hold the accordion. Cajun accordion players typically prefer diatonic accordions, which are considerably smaller and easier to hold than a keyboard accordion. Old-time players also may prefer to sit while they play; however, they commonly still use accordion straps so that they can concentrate on playing and not worry about the accordion slipping or moving around.

Instructions

1. Select an accordion strap for your accordion and your size. Accordion straps come in small, medium and large sizes; accordions also come in different sizes. Refer to the strap guidelines in selecting a strap. The guidelines should be on the strap packaging and on the website of the manufacturer that produces the straps. The guidelines take the weight and height of the accordion player into consideration, as well as the type of accordion and the weight of the accordion. The basic distinction is piano-keyboard accordions and diatonic-button accordion. Keyboard accordions are generally bigger than button accordions, but sizes vary even within each style. The correct strap also depends upon your own size.

2. Place the parts of the strap on a table. An accordion strap has two parts: the top and the bottom; the two parts are attached with a buckle. There's one strap for the right shoulder and one strap for the left shoulder. Identify the top part and the bottom part of each strap by width: The top part is wider and is designed to fit on your shoulder; the narrow part of the strap is the bottom.

3. Buckle the top and bottom parts of the straps together. The type of buckle varies with the strap that you purchase. The buckles on some straps connect together like the seat belt in your car; the buckles on other straps are similar to a belt buckle. The buckles should sit at the same holes on both the left and right straps. Compare the straps once the top and bottom have been attached. The right strap should be slightly longer than the left strap.

4. Mount the straps to the brackets on the accordion. The mounting hardware may consist of one or two mounting brackets. Attach the straps according to the angle of the brackets: The bracket for the right strap is vertical, while the bracket for the left strap is horizontal. Open the buckle on the top of the strap and thread it onto its appropriate bracket. Close the buckle to secure the strap.

5. Adjust the accordion straps until the accordion sits in a comfortable playing position. The top of a keyboard accordion should rest slightly below your chin; the bottom should be near your waist. Button-accordion players typically hold the accordion in the center of their torso.

References

• House of Musical Traditions: About Accordion Straps
• Play Music: How to Install Accordion Straps