The accordion is a versatile and beloved instrument, with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Known for its distinctive bellows and button or keyboard layout, the accordion has been used in a wide variety of musical genres, from folk and traditional music to jazz and pop. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the top 10 best accordions on the market today, as determined by a combination of expert reviews and customer feedback. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first instrument, or a seasoned professional looking to upgrade, these accordions are sure to impress. From the classic sound of a diatonic accordion to the versatility of a piano accordion, there’s something for everyone on this list. So without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the best accordions available today.
- Hohner Panther G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion – $674 – Rating 9.4/10 – The Hohner Panther G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion is a high-quality instrument that comes in a sleek matte black color and is only available in the key of GCF. With 31 buttons and 12 bass buttons, this accordion offers a wide range of notes and a full, rich sound. It also features double strap brackets for added comfort while playing. The accordion comes with straps, a cleaning cloth, and a Hohner Diatonic Method Book, however it does not come with a gig bag. It has a rating of 9.4 out of 10 on Amazon and is considered to have an incredible value. It also comes with a 90-day warranty for parts and labor to repair any manufacturer defects.
- HOHNER Accordion (3100FB) – $669 – Rating 8.8/10 – The HOHNER Accordion (3100FB) is a beginner-friendly and affordable option from the renowned accordion brand, Hohner. It is a 3-row diatonic accordion that comes in a sleek matte black color and is only available in the key of FBE. It has 31 buttons and 12 bass buttons, which makes it easy to play a wide range of notes. The double strap brackets provide added comfort for prolonged use. The package includes straps and a Hohner Diatonic Method Book, however it does not come with a gig bag. This accordion has a customer rating of 8.8 out of 10 on Amazon and is a great option for anyone who is new to accordion playing and wants to start playing the instrument without worrying about notes.
- Hohner Compadre FBbEb Musica Tipica Series Accordion (Black) – $989 – Rating 8.6/10 – The Hohner Compadre FBbEb Musica Tipica Series Accordion is a high-quality instrument that is suitable for both beginners and advanced players. It features a sleek black design with a new wide open grill that gives it a fresh look and incredible sound. The accordion has a typical HOHNER sound which is crisp and full. It has 31 treble-side buttons and 12 bass-side buttons, with 2 voices. The package comes with a gig bag and straps, the left-hand bass strap is also adjustable in size for added comfort. It has a rating of 8.6 out of 10 on Amazon and is perfect for anyone looking for a sturdy, beginner-friendly accordion with great sound quality.
- IRIN 22‑Key 8 Bass Accordion Piano Accordion Professional – $424.64 – Rating 10/10 – The IRIN 22‑Key 8 Bass Accordion Piano Accordion Professional is a high-quality, professional-grade accordion that is suitable for both beginners and advanced players. It is exquisitely crafted, ergonomically designed, flexible and playable. It is made of high-quality, non-toxic materials, ensuring that it is safe and easy to use. The accordion comes with a cleaning cloth and a strap which is very convenient for daily cleaning and carrying. It’s great for students as it’s simple and easy to use, thus helping to cultivate musical talent and improve the sense of rhythm. The accordion is also very beneficial for children, it can help with their creativity, concentration, and intelligence.
- Eastar Kids Accordion Toy Accordian Mini Musical Instruments 10 Keys – $59.99 – Rating 9/10 – The Eastar Kids Accordion Toy Accordian Mini Musical Instruments 10 Keys is a fun and educational musical instrument for children. It promotes creativity, music, hand and eye coordination and cultivates children’s love for playing musical instruments. It is made of high-quality phosphorus bronze reed which gives it a good timbre and durability. It is also safe and environmentally friendly as it is made of food-grade ABS resin materials that are non-toxic and harmless. The accordion is easy to learn and play, with a belt buckle design on both sides that make it easy to hold and not easy to fall off. It is also portable, measuring 7.5 inches x 7.2 inches x 4 inches and weighing 1.9 pounds, making it easy for children to take to school and study. The package includes the accordion and a learning guide.
- AIMEIS Accordion 17 Keys Piano for Adult Students – $58.99 – Rating 8.4/10 – The AIMEIS Accordion 17 Keys Piano for Adult Students is a high-quality, beginner-friendly accordion that is suitable for both students and adults. It is made of safe ABS resin materials and features high-quality bellows and brass reeds, which ensures a longer service life. The accordion is designed in a new style and has 17 keys and 8 bass buttons, allowing for a wider range of songs to be played. It produces crisp and beautiful sound when air flows across the different reeds inside the instrument. It is also lightweight and portable (9 in x 4 in x 9.2 in) and makes a great gift for music lovers as it develops a sense of music and hand coordination. The accordion is manufactured following strict quality requirements and is tested by professional personnel.
- MUSICUBE Kids Accordion Instrument 10 Keys – $34.99 – Rating 8.4/10 – The MUSICUBE Kids Accordion Instrument 10 Keys is a perfect educational musical instrument toy for kids aged 3 and above. The accordion is a versatile keyboard instrument that can be played both solo and as accompaniment. The accordion is safe for kids as it has been certified by TUV and meets the standard of ASTM F963, it’s made of high-quality and non-toxic materials. This accordion is easy to carry, it’s 747 inch(LWH) and 1.5 Lb. It’s easy for kids to take to school, kindergarten and play with their little music band. The accordion comes with a 1-year guarantee from MUSICUBE, and the company offers excellent after-sale service.
- Accordion Mini Musical Instruments 7 Keys Button for Children – $39.99 – 8.4/10 – The Accordion Mini Musical Instrument is a 7-key button accordion designed for children. It is a real musical instrument with good timbre and durability, making it a great gift for beginners. The accordion is a reed instrument that produces sound by pulling the bellows. It is small and easy to carry, suitable for players of different ages. The accordion comes with an English instruction manual and adjustable straps for comfortable practice. The accordion also has a 1-year warranty service, customers can contact the seller if they have any questions about the accordion received.
- 7 Keys Piano Accordion 8 Bass with Straps for Beginners Adults – $59.99 – Rating 7.8/10 – The 7 Keys Piano Accordion is a versatile instrument that has both 17 keys and 8 bass, making it ideal for both solo and ensemble performances. Made of environmentally friendly ABS plastic and solid wood, it is durable and lightweight. The accordion has a superior kraft paper bellow that provides excellent craftsmanship and airtightness. It also has imitable piano keys and adjustable PU leather straps for easy playing. This accordion is a great gift for students, kids, and beginners, with a compact size and beautiful design. The product comes with a 1-year guarantee from the manufacturer, LOTKEY, and customer support is available for any questions or concerns.
- Abubu 34-Key Accordion GCF – $738.90 – Rating 7.8/10MM – The Abubu 34-Key Accordion is a high-quality, handcrafted instrument with 34 treble keys and 12 bass buttons. It features 3 rows and 3 switches, Italian style decorations, and smooth operating buttons. The bellows are 20 fold in size for a bigger sound and reinforced corners for long-term use. The acoustically designed grill cloth enhances sound performance. The accordion comes with adjustable hand and shoulder straps and a premium hard case. This accordion is a great choice for music lovers, students and teachers.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Accordion Selection Tips
When choosing an accordion, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you select the best instrument for your needs.
First, consider the size of the accordion. Accordions come in different sizes, from small to large, and each size has its own unique sound and feel. Smaller accordions are more portable and easier to play for longer periods of time, but may not have the same volume and depth of sound as larger accordions. Larger accordions, on the other hand, have a fuller sound and can be used in larger venues, but can be heavy and difficult to transport.
Next, consider the number of buttons or keys on the accordion. Accordions can have as few as 12 buttons or as many as 120. The number of buttons or keys will determine the range of notes that can be played on the accordion. If you are a beginner, a 12-button accordion may be a good place to start. If you are more experienced, a larger number of buttons or keys will give you more options and greater flexibility in your playing.
Another important consideration is the type of accordion. There are three main types of accordions: diatonic, chromatic, and piano. Diatonic accordions have a limited range of notes and are typically used for playing traditional folk music. Chromatic accordions have a wider range of notes and are suitable for playing a variety of genres. Piano accordions have a full keyboard and are popular for playing classical and jazz music.
When selecting an accordion, it is also important to consider the brand and quality of the instrument. Look for accordions that are made by well-known manufacturers with a good reputation for quality. Try to find accordions that have been well-maintained and have a good condition. As a musician, you should always look for an accordion that is comfortable and easy to play, with a sound that you like.
Finally, it is always a good idea to try out the accordion before making a purchase. If possible, try playing the accordion in a music store or with a professional accordionist. This will give you a better idea of the feel and sound of the instrument, and will help you make a more informed decision.
Types of Accordions
Accordions come in different sizes and styles, each with its own unique sound and feel. When choosing an accordion, it is important to understand the different types of accordions available, as each type has its own unique characteristics.
One of the most common types of accordions is the diatonic accordion. Diatonic accordions have a limited range of notes and are typically used for playing traditional folk music. They have a button keyboard on the right-hand side, and a button bass keyboard on the left-hand side. The button keyboard is divided into rows, each of which plays a different scale. Diatonic accordions are typically smaller in size and are often used for playing traditional folk music.
Another common type of accordion is the chromatic accordion. Chromatic accordions have a wider range of notes and are suitable for playing a variety of genres. They have a button keyboard on the right-hand side, and a piano-style keyboard on the left-hand side. The button keyboard is divided into rows, each of which plays a different scale, but unlike the diatonic accordion, the chromatic accordion has a button for every single note, regardless of the scale. Chromatic accordions are typically larger in size and are often used for playing pop and classical music.
The piano accordion is a type of chromatic accordion, but it has a full keyboard on the right-hand side and a piano-style keyboard on the left-hand side. It is popular for playing classical and jazz music, as it allows for more complex harmonies and melodies. Piano accordions are typically the largest and heaviest of the accordion types, and are considered the most versatile.
Another type of accordion is the button accordion. This type of accordion has a button keyboard on both the right and left-hand side. The button keyboard is divided into rows, each of which plays a different scale. Button accordions are often used in traditional folk music, and they tend to be more portable and easier to play than the piano accordion.
There are also different types of accordions based on the layout of their buttons and keys, such as the piano-converter, stradella and free-bass accordion. The piano-converter accordion is a type of chromatic accordion that can be easily converted to play in different keys by moving the bellows. Stradella accordions have a standard bass layout, which makes them easy to play for those familiar with piano or keyboard. Free-bass accordions have a button or keyboard layout that allows for more freedom in playing and creating complex bass lines.
When selecting an accordion, it is important to consider the type of music you will be playing, the size and weight of the accordion, and your skill level. Diatonic accordions are best for traditional folk music, chromatic accordions are suitable for a variety of genres, and piano accordions are great for classical and jazz music. Piano-converter, stradella and free-bass accordions are for more experienced players who are looking for more versatility in their playing. It is also important to try out the accordion before making a purchase, so you can get a sense of the feel and sound of the instrument.
Accordion Brands
When selecting an accordion, it is important to consider not only the type and style of the instrument, but also the brand. There are many accordion brands on the market, each with its own reputation for quality and craftsmanship. In this article, we will discuss some of the most well-known and respected accordion brands available today.
One of the most popular and well-respected accordion brands is Hohner. Founded in 1857 in Germany, Hohner is one of the oldest and most established accordion manufacturers in the world. They offer a wide range of accordions, from small diatonic models to large piano accordions, and are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Hohner accordions are used by professional and amateur musicians alike, and are considered some of the best accordions available on the market today.
Another well-known brand is Bugari, an Italian accordion brand that has been producing high-quality accordions since the early 1900s. Their accordions are known for their beautiful craftsmanship, excellent sound quality, and attention to detail. Bugari is a family-owned business, and they take great pride in the quality of their instruments. They offer a wide range of accordions, from small diatonic models to large piano accordions, and are considered some of the best accordions available on the market today.
A third well-known brand is Petosa, an American accordion brand that has been producing high-quality accordions since the 1940s. Their accordions are known for their excellent sound quality, attention to detail, and durability. Petosa offers a wide range of accordions, from small diatonic models to large piano accordions, and are considered some of the best accordions available on the market today.
Another popular brand is Excelsior, an Italian accordion brand that has been producing high-quality accordions since the 1920s. Their accordions are known for their beautiful craftsmanship, excellent sound quality, and attention to detail. Excelsior offers a wide range of accordions, from small diatonic models to large piano accordions, and are considered some of the top accordions available.
If you’re looking for an accordion that has a more traditional sound and feel, you may want to consider purchasing a traditional French accordion. Brands such as Castagnari and Musette are well-known for creating accordions that are true to the traditional French sound and feel. These accordions are often used in traditional French music and are considered some of the highest quality accordions available on the market today.
When selecting an accordion, it is important to consider the brand, as well as the type and style of the instrument. Well-known and respected brands such as Hohner, Bugari, Petosa, Excelsior, Castagnari and Musette are known for producing high-quality accordions that are suitable for a wide range of music genres. It is also important to try out the accordion before making a purchase, so you can get a sense of the feel and sound of the instrument and ensure that it is the right instrument for you.
How to Learn to Play the Accordion (Step by Step)
Learning to play the accordion can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with musical instruments, this guide will help you get started on your accordion journey. Here are some step-by-step instructions for learning to play the accordion:
Step 1: Choose the Right Accordion
The first step in learning to play the accordion is to choose the right instrument. Accordions come in different sizes and styles, so it’s important to find one that is comfortable for you to hold and play. Consider the size of the accordion and whether you want a piano or button accordion. Piano accordions have a keyboard on the right side while button accordions have buttons on the right side.
Step 2: Learn the Basics of Accordion Anatomy
Once you have chosen an accordion, it’s important to learn the basics of its anatomy. The accordion has two main parts: the treble side and the bass side. The treble side is the side with the keyboard or buttons, and it is used to play the melody. The bass side is the side with the buttons, and it is used to play the accompaniment.
Step 3: Learn the Basics of Accordion Technique
Once you understand the basics of accordion anatomy, it’s time to learn the basics of accordion technique. This includes learning how to hold the accordion, how to use the bellows, and how to play the notes. Start by learning how to hold the accordion properly, with your left hand on the bass side and your right hand on the treble side. Then, practice moving the bellows to create sound. Finally, practice playing simple melodies on the treble side and simple accompaniments on the bass side.
Step 4: Learn to Read Music
To become proficient at playing the accordion, it is important to learn how to read sheet music. Sheet music is written in notation, which is a system of symbols that represent different notes, rhythms and other musical elements. Start by learning the basics of reading sheet music, such as the notes and their corresponding positions on the staff. Once you have a good grasp of this, you can start to learn more complex pieces.
Step 5: Practice, Practice, Practice
The key to becoming a proficient accordion player is practice. Set aside some time each day to practice your accordion skills. Start by playing simple songs and gradually increase the complexity of the pieces as you become more comfortable with the instrument. Try to practice regularly, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day. The more you practice, the better you will become.
Step 6: Take Lessons or Join a Group
Another great way to learn the accordion is to take lessons or join a group. Lessons will provide you with one-on-one instruction and feedback, which is especially helpful for beginners. Joining a group will give you the opportunity to learn from other players and play with them.
History of Accordions
The accordion is a musical instrument that has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The origins of the accordion can be traced to the early 1800s in Germany and Austria, where a number of inventors were experimenting with ways to create a portable, keyboard-based instrument that could produce a wide range of sounds.
One of the first known inventors of the accordion was Christian Friedrich Ludwig Buschmann, a German instrument maker who created a prototype of the instrument in 1822. This early version of the accordion, known as the Handäoline, featured a single keyboard and a bellows that was operated by hand.
Another early accordion inventor was Cyrill Demian, an Austrian organ builder who created an instrument called the “Aeoline” in 1829. This instrument was similar to Buschmann’s Handäoline, but it featured a double keyboard and a more complex system of reeds and bellows.
In the 1830s, a number of other inventors began to develop their own versions of the accordion. One of the most notable of these was the German instrument maker, Matthäus Bauer, who created an instrument called the “Akkordeon” in 1829. This instrument featured a complex system of reeds and bellows, and was capable of producing a wide range of sounds.
As the accordion began to gain popularity, a number of manufacturers began to produce the instrument in large quantities. One of the most successful of these manufacturers was the Hohner company, which was founded in 1857 by Matthias Hohner in Trossingen, Germany. Hohner’s accordions quickly became popular across Europe and in America, and the company continues to produce accordions to this day.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the accordion became an integral part of popular music in many cultures around the world. In Europe, the accordion was particularly popular in countries such as Italy, France, and Eastern Europe. In America, the accordion was used in a variety of musical genres, including folk, country, and jazz.
During the 20th century, the accordion fell out of favor in many parts of the world, but it has had a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Today, the accordion is played in a wide range of musical styles, including classical, folk, and popular music.
David Mahon is research assistant and part-time writer for SingersRoom.com. David has always enjoyed music and helping others reach their full potential.
