Accordion Basics: Video Series

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Music is one of the primary forms of communication on Earth. Whether the use of tones and melodies developed before, after, or in conjunction with spoken language is unknown; yet music is unique in that it helps us to talk to each other in ways that language cannot achieve. It creates a connection between people that is not limited by time, distance, or relationship; a song can speak to anyone, anywhere. That’s why music continually changes an d grows, is still loved and still proliferates. Music is a living language.

The accordion might be considered one of the dialects of that language. An accordion is a bellows instrument, using a mixture of keys and stops to create a distinct timbre and resonance that lend themselves easily to Zydeco, Tejano, and Polka music. It is played by squeezing and expanding the bellows while depressing keys, buttons, or stops, depending upon the variety of accordion.

The sound an accordion makes is usually light and full of harmony, hence the types of music the instrument is typically associated with. Yet, it can also represent a wider range of human emotion; its tonal registers can express sadness, longing, and contemplation, as evidenced in traditional French music. Some players, including Judy Tenuda and “Weird Al” Yankovic, have found that the accordion is the perfect instrument for comedy.

In this free video series, learn the basics of playing the accordion. Our expert, Amanda Claire, shows you how to begin your accordion playing career. Learn how to put on an accordion. Also, learn how to sit or stand comfortably when playing the accordion. Learn how to air moves through the accordion, and how to play bass notes. So, if you have been thinking of picking up this interesting instrument, learn how to play the accordion today!