How to Play Diatonic Accordions

The diatonic accordion has a single reed per note, which means that some notes can only be heard on the inward pump, while others only on the outward pump. The diatonic notes are arranged similarly to that of a harmonica. What is also true is that the notes are arranged in the diatonic accordion so that they are always in tune with each other. Read on to learn more about playing a diatonic accordion.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Become familiar with the keyboard of the diatonic accordion.

2. Memorize which notes can be played while pumping out and which notes can be played while pumping in. If you press a key while pumping in one note will sound. While still depressing the same key, another note will sound if pumping out.

3. Remember that the first row of keys on the diatonic accordion can only play the major scale. Each row of notes is different.

4. Experiment with the different sounds the accordion makes and begin playing songs.

5. Add to the song by playing ornamentation, playing more than one note, or filling any gaps in the music. Because the diatonic accordion is limited in the number of musical keys it can play, such techniques are often necessary when providing accompaniment.

Resources

• Paul Becker discusses playing the diatonic accordion.