How To Play a Button Accordion?

The fundamental knowledge that is required to play a button accordion is quite easy to understand. Once you have grasped the basics of playing the instrument, it will not be very difficult to strike the elementary chords and simple tunes. However, if you are looking forward to mastering the musical device, it is something totally different. Button accordions are simple as well as impressive instruments, and resemble harmonicas quite a lot. Being diatonic, they usually have one major scale. You can produce one particular note by pressing a button, and compressing the bellows from each side. Pulling out the bellows will produce a different note even if the same button is kept pressed.

In order to begin with playing a button accordion, you must first learn the main difference between the sides of it. The left side is meant for the bass, and is used for playing the primary bass note and also the tonic chord with the help of two buttons. The right side is for adjusting the treble and has got 10 buttons.

Before you proceed with the basics, you will have to practice the major chord adequately. Then only you can try your hand at playing a few simple songs on your accordion. The buttons provided on the right side can be used for playing two octaves of C major. You can play upto two notes with each button, and the order of the playable notes from top to bottom of the buttons are ㅡ E-B, C-A, G-F, E-D, C-B, G-A, E-F, C-D, G-B and E-G. The C major chord can be played by pushing the third button from the bottom and compressing the bellows, whereas pulling them out while holding the same button will produce a D note. Repeat the same process with each button. Play eight notes and quarter notes for practicing the major chord.

Now comes the part of incorporating both the sides of your accordion. Supplement bass chords to improve your chord exercises. With proper co-ordination of your right and left hands, you can start with learning songs. The most effective way to achieve this is by playing with an accordionist who would be able to show you a few tunes. Another alternative is to purchase songbooks or tutorial DVDs. For developing your sense of timing and ‘musical ear’, practice with others. Playing with other instrumentalists is a very good way to improve your own skills.