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.
After 1830, the popularity and development of the accordion increased rapidly. The bandoneon, harmonica and chromatic accordion are all enhancements of the original instrument that are still widely used today. The Schrammel is perhaps the most interesting development from this period. This complicated instrument was first played in a Viennese quartet, sharing the stage with two violins and a bass guitar. The Schrammel was popular at Viennese parties during this era, and is occasionally played even now.
The introduction of the first piano accordion came about in 1863. Many performers loved this instrument as it liberated them from the massive and immobile walls of pipes to which they were once confined. Musician Pietro Diero brought his custom built piano accordion to the United States, earning recognition as the "father" of playing the American accordion.
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.
Centuries have passed since the accordion's humble beginnings, but the instrument is still a worldwide phenomenon. There are still a few accordion manufacturers in the United States, but Europe has many more. Although there are still accordion manufacturers in the United States, their numbers are quite small compared to those in Europe. Countries like Germany, Italy, France, and Russia are important to the manufacturing and export of modern accordions.
The accordion is an ancient instrument, but remains an important element of today's music. From traditional pieces to modern melodies, the accordion enjoys lasting appeal.
Flora Murkett enjoys writing for several popular Internet magazines, on activity family and hobbies and activities issues. Click here to get your own unique version of this article.
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