Maybe you think that playing the accordion requires a deep knowledge of musical notation? In truth this is not the case. So, if you are a beginner and want to know more about how to play this instrument, read on.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting to know the Tool
Step 1. Buy the right type of accordion
There are many models and some are more suitable for beginners than others. The more information you have, the easier you can get yourself a suitable learning tool. Here are the best solutions for a novice student:
Chromatic accordion. This is the most popular model, it has the power of a normal piano, but in a very small size. It has a keyboard similar to that of the piano with a number of keys between 25 and 45, which are managed by the right hand. The left hand, on the other hand, controls a series of keys that emit bass chords. This model is called Stradella (from the name of the Lombard municipality which for years was one of the most important production centers in the world) and features 120 brass frets
Step 2. Familiarize yourself with the structure of the tool
The accordion is made up of several elements, all of which are fundamental for the quality of the sound:
- Singable side. This is the right side of the instrument, precisely the keyboard similar to that of the piano (in the chromatic accordion).
- The bellows. It is the central portion of the instrument that expands and contracts.
- The harmonica, the base and the valve. These are buttons that allow air to escape by adjusting the tone of the sound.
- Band for the right hand. This is the main band of the tool that allows you to attach it to your chest.
Step 3. Choose an accordion of the right size
Babies and teens or novice adults need to start with different sized tools, because the body and hand sizes are different.
- Children should choose an accordion with as few bass buttons as possible; the ideal are 12 buttons and 25 keys.
- Teens and adults should start with a 48-button, 26-key accordion.
- The 48 button chromatic accordion is a very light and easy to handle instrument. It also lends itself to playing many types of music, which means it will accompany you for a long time even when your level has improved.
Step 4. Place the instrument on your chest with the keyboards facing outwards
When, in the next section of the article, you will be explained how to handle the accordion, you will understand that the right hand moves only vertically, while the left moves both vertically and horizontally. For now, you just have to assess whether the position is comfortable or not.
Part 2 of 3: Hold the Tool Properly
Step 1. Sit or stand while holding the accordion
Some people prefer to stand, while others prefer the sitting position. It all depends on comfort and personal preference, so try different postures until you find the one that's right for you.
Step 2. Don't get sunk
Body posture is very important when playing an instrument, and if you bend forward you will lose balance, altering the quality of your playing.
Step 3. Learn to maintain the right center of gravity
The accordion is quite large and requires a little familiarity to be grasped and handled properly. Being able to maintain balance is essential. The more you are able to distribute the weight of the instrument evenly, the better you will play, because you will have more control. Better control, in turn, allows you to better manage the weight of the accordion.
Step 4. Secure the accordion securely to your chest
Slip your left arm into the band, just like you would if you wanted to put a backpack on your chest. The keyboard must be on the right, the left hand must be inserted under the band of the button panel (a small band located to the left of the instrument).
- There should be a wheel at the band to adjust the tension.
- Make sure the accordion fits snugly against your body so it doesn't move as you play it.
Step 5. Try a back band
This is very useful, as it holds the shoulder straps together so that the accordion does not move.
- Remember that if the back strap is too low, take the weight off the shoulder straps which become soft. This could cause the bands to move and the instrument would slide forward.
- Keep the back strap up, or fasten it diagonally.
- Remember that when a band is firmly in place, the accordion is too.
Step 6. Detach the safety buckles
They are located at the top and bottom of the instrument. At this stage, do not push or pull the bellows.
Part 3 of 3: Playing the Accordion
Step 1. Keep your wrist parallel to the keyboard
Don't bend it while trying to keep your elbow close to your side. At first you will feel a bit strange, but if you keep this posture you will be more precise in your execution and will not hinder the normal blood circulation of the hand.
This only applies to the right arm
Step 2. Insert your left hand into the band under the button panel
You will need to be able to close your fingers and reach for the buttons. The right hand is free and leans on the keyboard.
Step 3. Press the solitaire button on the left side next to the band
At this point you can open the bellows by pulling with your left arm. You will hear a hiss as the air enters the instrument and the bellows opens.
- Remember that it is important to press this button when opening and closing the bellows.
- Do not press any buttons on the right side while doing this.
Step 4. First, focus on the button panel
No matter how many buttons there are, you will notice that each one plays a chord automatically thanks to the internal mechanism of the accordion.
- The term “chord” indicates a sound emitted by a group of notes played simultaneously.
- Press the buttons only for a short period of time. Imagine they are hot and remove your fingers quickly.
Step 5. Try not to watch your finger movements
It won't be easy at first, but try your best to avoid checking the position of your fingers and the direction in which they move.
Step 6. Find the note Do
This button is usually slightly recessed and is located at the beginning of rows 8, 12, 16, 24 and 36 of all the button panels. If your instrument is particularly large, look for C in the second row.
Step 7. For the moment neglect the keyboard
The important thing, for now, is to become familiar with the tool and concentrate on the first two rows of the control panel.
Regardless of how many rows of buttons your model has, just focus on the first two
Step 8. Place your index finger on Do
Then put your thumb under your index finger and press the key immediately to the right of C. It should be slightly off-center but just below the key you pressed with your index finger.
Step 9. Pull the bellows outwards
Then hit the two keys alternately to produce a chord. You should feel some kind of umm-pah.
Try to open the bellows evenly to make a steady sound
Step 10. Try to follow a waltz rhythm
The beats for this rhythm are: 1, 2, 3--1, 2, 3. Play the C on the first beat and press the key just below the second and third bars.
Step 11. Play the two corresponding buttons on each side of the ones you just learned
This way you can play a simple accompaniment.
Step 12. Add the bellows movement
Now try to pull it while alternately mashing the buttons you just learned to recognize. Repeat the exercise many times.
Step 13. Train with some little exercise
Try another simple scale that helps you produce your first controlled sequence of sounds:
- Expand the bellows.
- Press it again steadily and lightly as you hit the first key.
- Keep playing the note until you change direction by pulling the instrument to open it.
- Move on to the next note as you push the bellows and then pull it.
- Move on to the next fret and you will have played the C, Re, Mi, Fa, G, La scale.
Step 14. Try harder exercises
The one we propose has two chords and allows you to leave your fingers on the fretboard. Place your thumb on C and your little finger on G: start with your middle finger on E.
Step 15. Keep practicing
At first it is not easy to acquire the right coordination, so it is important that the fundamental movements gradually become more natural. Repeat the exercise described above until you become more confident and can move to a higher level.
Warnings
- Never close or open the accordion, unless you have pressed at least one key or the bellows release button (a button located at the bottom of the bass side of the accordion that allows you to open or close the bellows without playing), otherwise you risk damaging the reeds and forgetting the instrument.
- Always place the accordion upright both in its case and out of it.
- Store it at moderate temperatures.
- There is wax on the accordion that can break if it's too cold, or melt if it's too hot.
- Never leave it in the car because the temperature can rise a lot or on the contrary it can be very cold.
