How to Place the Accordion Straps on Your Shoulders

The accordion straps should hold the accordion at the correct height.

Although the accordion may seem odd and folksy, it can produce energetic sounds and enjoyable music. Musicians with piano experience can often pick up an accordion and play it proficiently without much effort. As you lift the accordion and situate it at your chest, place the accordion straps on your shoulders properly so that the accordion is at the correct height for playing.

Instructions

1. Examine the straps of the accordion before attempting to put it on. The right shoulder strap should be longer than the left shoulder strap. Do not confuse the two straps as you put them over your shoulders.

2. Hold the accordion in both hands with the bellows completely closed. Your right hand should be at the keyboard and your left hand should be at the bass strap beside the bass button board.

3. Place your right arm through the longer shoulder strap and your left arm through the shorter shoulder strap. Center the straps on your shoulders comfortably.

4. Check the height of the accordion with the straps on your shoulders. The bottom of an average accordion should come to your waist level.

5. Remove the accordion if the straps need adjusting. Make the straps longer or shorter by moving the buckles.

6. Place your left hand through the bass strap and check the fit. The bass strap should fit comfortably around the back of your hand while you push the buttons on the bass board. Turn the adjustment dial just above the bass strap to make it tighter or looser, as necessary.

References

• "Alfred's Teach Yourself to Play Accordion"; Miriam Davidson; 2005