Musical doctrine and the physics of sound define the accordion as a free-reed aerophone instrument. Its operation and sound production occur through the compression of the bellows—essentially the accordion’s heart—which directly vibrates metal reeds at its ends. To produce different sounds, the accordion uses two keyboards, and depending on the type (as there are many different accordions), it produces varying sounds. Before examining its structure and different types, it is important to delve into its history within the musical landscape.
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The History of the Accordion
The history of this instrument, as often happens, has roots in popular folklore. Not surprisingly, its origins are uncertain and could even be attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, hinting at Italian roots. Certainly, the first appearance of a rudimentary accordion dates back to 1829 in Vienna. Over time, the instrument has evolved significantly, leading to its official patent, registered in 1854 by American Anthony Faas. From then on, the instrument was further refined, especially in Italy. Notably, the polyphonic accordion created by Mariano Dallapé in Stradella has become a true monument in music history. The instrument was not widely used by renowned artists as it was considered mainly a popular tool, but it has a strong presence in concerts and other performances. Understanding how an accordion is made is particularly fascinating as it requires precision in assembly and the selection of high-quality parts to produce its sound.
How an Accordion is Made: Characteristics and Components
As mentioned, the accordion—regardless of its type—essentially consists of three main parts. The first is the treble section, operated with the right hand. The second is the bass section, operated with the left hand. At the center, of course, is the bellows, which provides the air to produce sound. Depending on the different types (ranging from concert and dance accordions to study models), they produce sounds that can be more or less sharp. Below, these components are examined in more detail.
The left section of the accordion is called the treble side and contains the keys or buttons. To produce sound, one must press a button, which is connected to a lever system that lifts a valve, allowing air to pass through to the reeds. Depending on the type of accordion, there can be various button configurations, with six-row button boards common in Balkan regions.
The treble section is attached to the bellows via pins or screws. Below the treble section are reed blocks (wooden frames with chambers of varying sizes depending on the reed’s pitch). The reeds themselves are aluminum plates, with specific airflow altering their tones. Air passes through the accordion’s bellows, made from pleated cardboard, covered with silk or canvas depending on the model. For smoother operation, inner bellows corners are leather while outer corners are made of durable metal to resist wear.
The bass section lies beneath the cover immediately behind the strap. This section contains an entirely mechanical system of vertical and horizontal rods that open and close the reed valves, controlling air intake and output.
Types of Accordions
There are at least five types of accordions; the first three are traditional, while the remaining ones are crafted using specific processes and have unique characteristics.
Italian “Liscio” Dance Accordions
Italian “Liscio” Dance accordions are the most widespread. Typically, these have three treble voices and five bass voices, colloquially known as third-and-fifth accordions.
Concertina Accordions
Concertina accordions have 11 registers, including an eighth register known as “cassotto,” producing soft, mellow tones. These accordions, along with study models, are primarily used for operatic and theatrical performances.
Study Accordions
Among traditional accordions, study models feature converter bass and are used in conservatories for practice. A legal provision established a formal accordion teaching program in 1993.
Diatonic Accordions
The diatonic accordion, also known as an organetto, is a special type of this free-reed instrument. Its defining feature is the limited number of bass buttons, typically no more than 12, and its ability to produce higher musical scales. Because of its bitonal nature, diatonic accordions can play different notes with the same button. Musicians must skillfully set the scale using the right-hand keys, arranged in two rows. The instrument is vertical and typically strapped to the player’s body.
The most common diatonic accordion in Italy features two rows and 8 basses, widely used in Southern Italy. It has a notable presence in operas and concerts due to its rich folk music heritage. From this model, the bandoneón evolved, a unique accordion with two rows of buttons and a bellows compressed by both hands at the instrument’s ends.
Chromatic Accordions
Chromatic accordions, also known as bitonal, emerged in the 1980s. Structurally, they differ from diatonic models by adding a new row of alterations, modifying the base rows. This type of accordion has a significantly different appearance from traditional models, both in form and sound. Unlike melodic focus, chromatic accordions emphasize tones produced during bellows opening. Playing a bitonal chromatic accordion requires specialized knowledge.