How to Learn to Play the Accordion

The accordion is a popular and versatile instrument with which you can play many styles of music. From country to rap, many musicians play the accordion. It's an instrument you can play by yourself, but it will fit in with virtually any kind of music group as well. Teaching yourself the basics is not hard. It will come quickly if you follow some simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Accordion
• Sturdy chair

Instructions

1. Choose an accordion to fit you and your budget. Accordions come in several styles and sizes. Usually designated by the number of bass buttons. Sizes range from a small twelve bass model to the standard 120 bass models. Arrangement of keys and buttons are the same on any size. Quality instruments are available in all sizes.

2. 

   Press down on a white key. They are arranged like those on a piano. Play the keys with the right hand while the left hand pumps the bellows. Choose a simple song like "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and pick out the tune on the white keys. Start with middle C which is located just above the center of the keyboard below two black keys. Practice pumping the bellows in and out smoothly while playing the tune on the white keys.

3. 

   Locate the C button on the bass or left side of the accordion. The C note usually has a concave top on the button to set it apart from the others. While pumping the bellows slowly in and out practice playing a beat on the C bass button. For many songs you will need to know the C, F and G buttons. Charts showing the location of each key and bass button are available for download.

4. Practice playing the three bass buttons until you can move from one to the other smoothly and quickly. Hum "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" as you play. Practice playing the different buttons so they fit with the notes of the song as you hum.

5. Play the keys and the buttons together. Practice playing the song on the white keys while adding in the appropriate buttons with your left hand. Slowly pump the bellows in and out while playing keys with the right hand and bass buttons with the left hand.

6. Sing the song as you play while tapping your foot in time with it. Notice how your timing quickly improves and how the song seems to flow.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a sturdy chair or stool to sit on. Adjust the shoulder straps to fit tightly but comfortably.

• Dampness and mildew can damage reeds and bellows so store your instrument in a temperature-controlled area.

References

• Bass Section Button Chart
• Keyboard - White keys

Resources

• Links to popular accordion web sites