Vintage Accordions

Vintage Accordions

The accordion, otherwise known as a squeezebox is a type of free-reed instrument that creates sound when air rushes through metal reeds attached to blocks inside of the instrument. In some types of free-reed machines, air is produced by the musician’s mouth but in a vintage accordion like a piano accordion, air is pushed and pulled through the reeds by using a bellow.

Accordions must be stored vertically, resting on the end of the bass. Storing the accordion in a flat position will damage its internal parts, causing an unpleasant and rattling-like sound when the accordion is played. Accordions must also not be left under the light of the sun or in a hot place. Keeping it in a hot place will melt the wax that is holding the reeds and will be totally damaged. Lastly, when you are playing with your vintage accordion, the bellows should not be rubbed by the shoulder straps to avoid damage.

The value of a vintage accordion depends on a few things such as its condition, brand and size. For second hand accordions, a functional accordion is valued more than its antiquity. Aside from its condition, the value also depends on the brand of accordion. Hohner is a well-known brand and its price can vary from the hundreds to thousands of dollars. Hohner’s top product is the Hohner Gola and the Hohner Morino.

First, check the condition of its carrying case and look for broken or missing pieces. A musty smell is a sign that the instrument may have been poorly stored in a damp cellar. Next check the body of the accordion. Search for chips that are missing from corners, inspect for cracks, scratch marks and any other signs of wear. You must also look closely at the keyboard, particularly on the white keys. Look for keys that are out of level. A good keyboard is rare in an old instrument unless it has really been taken care of.