How long did it take you to get good?

[Deekdon]

Its a strange one. I dont class myself as a good player, I am a pretty lazy player actually. I got my first accordion when I was 5 and did not really do much, went to lessons but never really got the bug. I stopped then started again at the age of 13 or 14 where my dad forced me into it again (god I am so glad he did). I went to lessons and at the age of 15 played my first gig, a burns night, at the age of 15 as "apprentice" accordionist, only problem was the guy who was no1 accordion was stuck at work so I had to play more than half the gig on my own. I played with that band for 10 years or so then stopped up until a couple of years ago where I started a new Ceilidh band with a couple of people. Every night, every set I know I make mistakes, but the thing is 9 times out of 10 nobody notices. I find I take a tune so far where I can play it and then dont take it any further (thats where the lazy bit comes in). I would say I will never be good however I am confidant enough to strap my box on and play a 4 hour Ceilidh. I think having something to work to will help. It was the band for me, if it was not for the band I would not be playing as a hobby (not to say I play it for money, its more to get out there and have fun). So set a goal to play at a hospital or old folks home to push you.

 

[BobM]

its about 'horses for courses' and the need for both complimentary and different skills being required for different 'courses'.

george

I agree. But, there's a real lack of advice and solid info coming down from the top players in the accordion world (shame), compared with mainstream instruments. Plus a shortage of useful modern printed material in the different accordion formats, so with giving advice comes more of a responsibility to get it right. Because for some students this forum may be their main source of information.

BobM.

 

[Deekdon]

its about horses for courses and the need for both complimentary and different skills being required for different courses.

george

I agree. But, theres a real lack of advice and solid info coming down from the top players in the accordion world (shame), compared with mainstream instruments. Plus a shortage of useful modern printed material in the different accordion formats, so with giving advice comes more of a responsibility to get it right. Because for some students this forum may be their main source of information.

BobM.

Do you not think that is because the accordion is not that cool. There is a lot being done though, only this week I have seen an email from the National Association of Accordion and Fiddle Clubs saying the will be going into Schools to to promote traditional music. I can only take this from purely a Scottish stand point as thats all I have ever really studied.

 

[james_from_stoke]

the accordion isn't really so difficult, if you don't let it feel that way. I have been playing since feb this year, and can play everything folky that I could on the violin and more - pop songs and some klezmer stuff. I went busking for charity the other day and managed nearly £80, so I can't be that bad. I would say start simple, by ear, and gradually play more complex things. The worst possible thing you can do is overface yourself. To me, it is better to be able to play 80 folk tunes than two concertos, and by starting small, you learn more about the feel of the instrument and improvising. Learn something simple - blaydon races or Gooseberry bush - and play it with a simple root chord, 4th and 5th accompaniment. Gradually get onto more complex folk songs - like Metsakukkia in the songs and how to play them section. Then look onto youtube, and watch people playing, and just join in. Then you can pick up the more complex stuff like Impasse des Vertus, and after that, you should be okay. I only graduated from a 12 bass about a month ago, so was limited to folk or bastardisations of klezmer with major chords for most of my playing career, and I'm fine (?1 :roll: :b ). Just play simple fun things and the rest will fall into place. And stop worrying!

 

[BobM]

Do you not think that is because the accordion is not that cool. There is a lot being done though, only this week I have seen an email from the National Association of Accordion and Fiddle Clubs saying the will be going into Schools to to promote traditional music. I can only take this from purely a Scottish stand point as thats all I have ever really studied.

I dont think that its because the accordion is not cool per se, its because it can be a harder instrument to make a start on, like the violin and unlike say,the plectrum guitar. (Play in a Day?).

The trombone, (my main instrument of 50 years) is definitely not cool, but theres masses of excellent practical DVDs, tutor books, YouTube clips, available from some of the finest players in the world. The Trombone Forum has members from top orchestras, LA film studio players etc. In short, you cant avoid getting good considered advice.

What these pros understand is that to keep music alive, they need to inspire the next generation, they have to put out; for nothing. This forum has been a great success, but how many top accordionists have come through and made a contribution, apart from plugging their own wares?

Its great that the National Association of Accordion and Fiddle Clubs is getting out there to promote traditional music. Ive done similar concerts (not on P/A) and theyve been well received, and weve taken a playable current tune and re-arranged it for the pupils. Good fun and can make a lasting impression.

BobM.

 

[Deekdon]

I will also add to this, although its maybe going off topic a little, there is a want from traditional music. The amount of Ceilidhs that I play that are for 21st birthday partys of University evening is unreal so the younger generation is still keen on it, as you say its getting them out there and being heard

 

[Soulsaver]

We did this before but it got a bit bogged down in definitions, still makes interesting reading...
http://www.accordionists.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=515