How to Operate Accordion Bellows

Because accordions have the added complexity of bellows, you should practice your accordion without playing any notes before you're ready to learn notes. Focus on working the bellows as your first step in learning the accordion.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Hold the accordion in your preferred position and unstrap the bellows to prepare your instrument for play.

2. Locate the bellow release button on the left side of the accordion, near the top of the instrument. Move your left thumb to it and press it in.

3. Open and close the bellows while you hold your thumb on the bellow release. Notice that while the bellows move, they make no sound. If you hear a note while you're moving the bellows, adjust your thumb on the bellow release.

4. Practice smoothly opening the bellows by keeping the bottom tight while allowing gravity to pull the top towards the ground. Your left arm extends as the bellows open.

5. Push the bellows in at the top once your arm is extended. This time, let gravity pull the bottom of the bellows in while you push the top.

6. Move your left hand in a figure eight to work the bellows smoothly and evenly. Once this action feels comfortable, you're ready to start adding notes to your accordion practice.

Tips & Warnings

• Even accomplished musicians use the bellows release to achieve correct phrasing, so knowing how to work the bellows even without playing notes helps you become a better musician.