Hello from Hertfordshire

[aj]

Hi all,

I'm based in Hertfordshire and have just started learning the accordion. I play several other instruments, but accordion is all new to me. I've got an old 1950s Italian 120 bass accordion that I'm learning on. It's very heavy and large on me (I'm 5'2"), and has a few issues (a few treble keys stick, and it needs tuning). I'm attempting to do whatever repairs I can myself (referring to the accordion revival website), but tuning will be way beyond me. I can't even figure out how to get the treble keys out to try and fix the few that stick! However, I've been able to get some tunes out of it, while working through the Palmer Hughes book, and I'm getting quite addicted!

So I'm thinking of getting a new/secondhand accordion that is in better shape, and thinking of using that opportunity to get something that will suit me a bit better with regards size and weight. But I'm finding the variety/choice quite overwhelming. I will be playing mostly folk and classical music. I haven't found any shops particularly near to me yet, where I can go and try out different models. I was considering a v accordion, as I thought there might be less maintenance required and they might be lighter (plus they look like a lot of fun). But I'm now thinking that I'll probably go with an acoustic. Any advice would be welcomed.

Thanks.

 

[rbs]

Go and see Emilio Allodi (google Allodi Accordions). He's good a good stock, is very helpful, and won't rip you off. You should be able to drive to his shop in about an hour, as long as you drive outside the rush hour. Ring him first to let him know you're coming, and why.

 

[BrandyD]

Hello and welcome to the group! I too am 5'2" and have been playing a large, heavy, 120 bass accordion from the 70's ever. I've been playing for about 37 years - I've never had a small accordion. I just purchased a V-Accordion and love it!!! Of course, I've purchased the largest one. I love the 120 basses.

Playing the accordion can become an addiction!!!!!

Welcome,
Brandy

 

[Soulsaver]

Welcome AJ. Woman? I have to say it's hard to be definitive about instrument size - I'm a relatively fit man but struggle with a 120 bass... but I see slight teenage girls doing brilliant with 'em. Must be a technique I've not mastered
For a relative beginner with a leaning towards folk I'd say go for a Hohner Concerto 72 bass - it'll do everything you need, light & relatively cheap... plus they're popular, you've got a good chance to get your money back when you upgrade ..or if you give up.
So, yep a visit to Emilio is the way to go, he's got a Concerto in his stock list, too, but try the others for fit budget tone tec. They are open only certain days (4 I think) so the advice to phone first to find a quiet time & avoid wasted journey is good.

Good hunting.

 

[Happy girl]

aj, as you are studying Palmer Hughes you will defiantly need a 120 bass.

When I purchased my 72 bass I was told that it would be all I will ever need, & so it was until Palmer Huges came into my life, & I had to buy another instrument.

From book three, a 72 bass will not be enough to get you through the lessons; my 120 bass is a ladies model, & interestingly, is lighter than my 72 bass; you may wish to explore that route.

Good luck with your new hobby & happy playing.

 

[Pietro]

Hi AJ and welcome. One of the youngsters who plays in my company began when she was about 12 years old and very small. She played a 120 bass PA at first and could scarcely see over the top. She's now in her late twenties and still tiny but plays a huge 120 chromatic with freebass converter which weighs over 30 lbs. She has no issue with it, so don't be put off if you aspire to play classical stuff you will need all those keys. Another friend of mine who is a really good player of any genre of music has a 96 bass instrument and constantly complains about not having enough range. I had a beautiful Vignoni 96 for a while and found the same, so it had to go. If you only wanted to play folky stuff I would say go 96, but for most other music written/arranged for accordion go 41 treble with 120 bass.

Good luck, there's plenty of choice out there.

Pete