How to size an accordion to my 6’ 4” 250lbs frame

[deano]

Hi all
I used to have a full-size 21” width keyboard piano 120 bass accordion. It weighed 20lbs. So I switched to a 48 bass accordion that is only 8 lbs. the issue is my bellows arm(left arm) is very cramped playing it.

What can I do to reduce the cramped feeling in left arm?

Thanks in advance for assistance
Dean-O

 

[Ventura]

order and fit a new bellows on it, with 50% more pleats,
going from, say, 12 folds to perhaps 18 or even 20

you will start from a wider position, and have a
greater range of air volume

 

[Accordionna]

Hi all
I used to have a full-size 21” width keyboard piano 120 bass accordion. It weighed 20lbs. So I switched to a 48 bass accordion that is only 8 lbs. the issue is my bellows arm(left arm) is very cramped playing it.

What can I do to reduce the cramped feeling in left arm?

Thanks in advance for assistance
Dean-O

Adding length to your left strap may be the solution. It could allow you to keep your shoulder level as you extend your bellows.

Two fellows I know about your size have different approaches to using a smaller instrument. One had chain links with carabinier clips added on the ends of leather straps. Those allowed him to adjust the lengths for his 72-bass Hohner and a full sized (1930s) legacy instrument. He had the straps "tailored" at a tack shop.

The other fellow uses extendable nylon luggage shoulder straps he found online. They're not padded but hold his student-sized, 12- bass perfectly. Those bellows extend significantly.

 

[Dingo40]

What can I do to reduce the cramped feeling in left arm?

Might this do?

Google Search

And:

world's biggest accordion youtube - Google Search

 

[oldbayan]

Small accordions come with short straps, as manufacturers think the players will be small! Get longer straps and hold the accordion to a more comfortable height. Some people use one long strap, on the right size, like Cajun players with their small 1-row boxes.