History of the Accordion

From traditional old-world ballads to modern Acadian and even punk rock, the accordion is a staple in many musical bands.

There is a colorful and fascinating history to the humble accordion. The instrument's family tree can be traced back centuries to about 500 BC. During the time of Confucius, at about 551-479 BC, the Chinese used an instrument called a Sheng or Cheng, believed to be the first instrument to use a free vibrating reed. This ancient principle still provides the basis of sound production still used in many of today's instruments.

In 1829, a Viennese instrument maker named Cyrillus Damian is said to have created the first "true" accordion. Many historical resources suggest that Mr. Damian held the first patent to an instrument of that name, and he received royal patronage for his invention. Conflicting reports say that the first accordion actually appeared in 1822, when a fellow by the name of Christian Friedrich Buschmann added some expanding bellows to a small portable keyboard, and utilized a reed that vibrated within the instrument. Buschmann's instrument was dubbed the "hand-aeoline", and in 1828 he toured to increase awareness of the instrument's popularity.

We may never know who truly invented to accordion, but no one can deny the instrument's lasting popularity. In the years to follow, many different varieties of free-vibrating reed instrument were developed. Some of them went by the wayside, while others continue to be used and appreciated. As public interest in the accordion grew, many people began to demand books and manuals to learn to play and master the instrument. Research suggests that the first accordion textbook was written by Adolf Reisner and published in Paris in 1832. This book featured both original music, and new arrangements of familiar pieces. A countless number of manuals and accordion textbooks have since been released.

From 1830 onwards, the development of the accordion continued at a rapidly accelerating pace. Several varieties of instrument were further developed such as the bandoneon, a chromatic model and even the harmonica, all of which still exist today. Perhaps one of the interesting developments from this period was the introduction of the Schrammel, a complicated instrument that made its debut onstage with a Viennese quartet comprised of a bass guitar and two violins. The Schrammel became popular at Viennese gatherings and can still be heard today.

The first piano accordion was introduced to the public in 1863. Many performers regarded it as a means of liberating themselves from the confines of their massive, immobile walls of pipes. Pietro Diero, a musician of the time, brought his custom built piano accordion to the United States, and would gain the title of "the Father of American accordion playing".

In the early 20th century, several accordion manufacturers began to establish themselves. These companies met the growing needs and pressures of professional accordion players. These changes led to the standard shape and size of the accordion that we know today.

The accordion remains an international phenomenon, even hundreds of years since its ancestors were first introduced. There are some accordion manufacturers in the United States, but far more can be found in Europe. Russia, France, Germany and Italy are all important players in manufacturing and exporting modern accordions.

As you listen to traditional musical pieces from all around the world, you will often hear the distinctive notes of the accordion. It is an instrument that boasts a rich history and lasting universal appeal.

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About the Article Author

Flora Murkett enjoys writing for a variety of popular Internet magazines, on entertainment and hobbies and music topics.

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