Sometimes you are hired to play in places where you have to walk while playing. A smaller accordion can make a difference in weight and you can play for a longer time without tiring. I used to have a 48 bass to play that kind of gigs. Thank you Moshe for your lessons and guidance. Greetings from Costa Rica!
I made a decision a couple months back to get a little more serious about learning the accordion and this is exactly what I did. I didn't want to always have to bring out the monster if I wanted to practice for a short amount of time, nor to drag it around somewhere like camping. I purchased a smaller accordion that needed a little work (I'm slightly mechanically inclined) so I could have it with me when the muse hit.
I started off with two 120 full size accordions given to me by friends and they both sound great but they're about 30lbs each and are monsters. I recently found a smaller accordion in a local antique shop for $30, everything works, bellows were recently replaced and it doesn't sound half bad but its much smaller and easier to transport. It's still a 120 bass but it's half the size- says Accordiana on for the front, I guess that's a fractional size accordion. Either way I love it and I find myself practicing a lot more since I got it.
I so appreciate this! I just got a small (48 bass) accordion a few weeks ago, and love it for the same reasons you list. Always happy to find validation for having more than one of a given instrument! 😂 Love your channel and website. Keep up the great work!
Hi Moshe - You are simply wonderful ! I recall my 1950s when I chanced upon a 12 bass 'Pietro' German accordion, which was my first one and (whose sound still haunts me - and alas - sold as its several brass (?) reeds started breaking frequently . It had reed plates like a harmonica and sounded like a superfine Harmonica). Yes you are right - smaller accordions are beautiful , these are easily portable, and enjoyable ! Warm Regards.
Ronen, Thank you for this view of small accordions. I have been a pianist and organist for 40 years, and last January bought a small Weltmeister, what fun it is. A new world has opened for me. Jeannine Lynch
My first (proper) accordion was a second hand Chinese 'Cipelino' 32 bass that I got for finishing my SATs. When I decided it was 'too small' for me, I demoted it to being a secondary instrument that I kept at my grandparents' house, while I played a 120 bass. Recently though, I've been going outside to play and taking more walks because of Covid, so I dug the little 32 bass out and started playing it again while out and about. I used to constantly look for bigger and fuller accordions, but now I'm obsessed with the opposite; trying to find the ultimate small, portable instrument!
I have a guitalele (a small classical guitar, tuned a 4th up, basically) and I end up playing it so often because it's so small, light, it doesn't have an amazing tone, but projects sound quite well, doesn't cover conversation, and also it's more adapted for my voice range ^^
That is the exact accordion I bought in Germany a few years ago when I started to learn. Today I use it as my travel accordion. I can carry it on my back in a backpack and it’s treated as carry on luggage! I love it. It’s probably as old as me but it’s in great shape. The newer ones with the Honica label do not compare and I’ve returned the ones I purchased.
So, what brand is this accordion and what is it called specifically? I’m looking something for my 13-year old grandson who plays piano but wants to play accordion. He presently has a toy plastic accordion and can make beautiful music on it!!
I keep coming back to your videos on these small accordions because almost everything else out there about accordion sizes makes the claim that you can’t play music with anything smaller than a 72 bass. It’s funny, because there are plenty of videos of people demonstrating to the contrary.
Man, I used to have that same accordion, my first one. I ended up selling it when I was ready for the full size. Watching this makes me wish I had kept it. At the time I told myself it'd be better if someone else had it to start playing, rather than me hoard it for the occasional session. Maybe I'll start looking for another one.
Amr, I was the same! I started on a white 48 bass Hohner that had the most beautiful sound. I also lent it to friends to learn, and eventually sold it for bigger instruments. I'm falling in love with this little guy :)
So, can anybody tell me what type of accordion this is? My grandson would like a musette accordion, but needs a smaller size as he is 13. What are these smaller sized accordions called specifically? Can anyone hook me up with a good used one?
@@pollymoore9481 This is a "Hohner Student" model. They are classed by the number of bass buttons - 40 here. I have a very similar one, which just has one extra row of buttons, making it a 48-bass
Hi Ronen. Very pleased to see you like the Hohner Student 40. My wife bought me exactly the same one for Christmas and I love it. Enjoying learning as a member of AccordionLove!! Keep up the good work!
You can go even smaller and get a melodica! A normal-sized one fits in a carry-on, and they are inexpensive, so you don't have to be worry as much about something happening to them. There is no bass, but that can be fun too, since you can focus on melodies and adding right-hand chords for harmony.
Yes!! I'm a huge fan of melodicas. I picked one up at a music store while travelling... I had a tune stuck in my head and had no way of getting the song out, until *Melodica* 🙌
I have a small green Weltmeister 32 bass and it might be my favourite thing i've ever owned. Wonderful to pick up and tap away at musical ideas as you say.
I want to have a career in the military and love the accordion. I would like smol accordion for compact size when im out in the field. Great campfire instrument size! Maybe even a garmoshka if I can find one here in the US 😂
I have not played 48bass instrument, but I sold my 80bas and bought 120 instead. I am a street musician and I Play 2-6 hours a day and what I found that it is easier to support larger accordion on my legs while sitting so my back and shoulders are not hurting in the end if a day. And there is a keyboard and base limitations, I had to change arrangement of songs even for 80 base. 48 makes it even more limited in chosing songs to Play.
This is brilliant! I totally agree! Currently selling an 80 bass Crucianelli because it's too big and heavy for me and I'm just not playing it! I bought a really cheap 32 bass Worldmaster in reasonable condition and I'M PLAYING IT! Selling the Crucianelli and I'll be buying a better quality small accordion, most likely just 48 bass.
Hello dear Moshe ! I followed your advice and bought recently a Hohner button accordion Student 1, 72 basses if I remember well... I love thesound musette, and it is much easier to play, lighter and taking less place than my heavy Savoïa Hohner one with 120 basses... Many thanks and greetings from Eastern France. Alfred.
One thing I noticed about accordions-smaller bass accordions tend to have the “wet” musette sound with either MM or LMM reeds. However, for dry beginner (or lightweight) accordions, you would see a smaller keyboard with a standard 120 bass.
I got a hohner imperial IIa which is 32 base, it's probably one of the smallest accordions ever produced, and it's from the 1930's . It has a small gig bag, and I literally have it with me every where, I even take it with me on my work as a truck driver, or on the boat.
I just bought a Hohner imperial II online and got it from Serbia after a month. Doing a full restoration, actually a restomod. The trim and celluoid is missing pieces and delaminating, so I'm going to strip it to bare wood and paint it metal flake red with huge flakes. Also on my list is building new bellows and walnut frames. Also going to replace the keytops. I also know where to get recreations of the original metal hardware
Thank you for your reflections, I appreciate it. I have been playing according on and off since the mid 90s, and I have tried both small and large. I definitely see your reasons for appreciate a smaller accordion. However, I don’t really have the option of having two accordions, but to me a big 120 bass accordion is too large and heavy, and I have found my sweet spot in the middle, which is an accordion from The Italian brand Serenellini with 34 keys and 96 bases. Light enough to easy carry around, but big enough to make that full sound. Greetings from Norway.
I totally agree with you ronen about small accordions. I camp and travel with my little 40 bass hohner starlet and play in a morris dance side. i practice on a welt meister rubin and perform on a 72 bass.I agree having different accordions for different purposes if possible is best.people prefer jamming with me on a small accordion as it is not as loud .
Hi Ronen! Really enjoy watching your videos. I'm especially enjoying this one because my first and only accordion is also small. The guy who sold it to me mentioned that it was a "lady's model" due to its size, but that didn't slow me down, lol. 120 bass, 41 piano keys... and if I'm feeling lazy I can sit on the couch and it's still up out of my lap 🙂What's not to like? Happy Holidays!
I love my 48. I'd like to have a 60, (so I will have a B row,) and 5 voices. I recently had romantic inclinations toward a used Castiglione 60. It was beautiful, had all the voices I wanted. But thanks to Ronen's excellent video on how to buy an accordion, I discovered that the bellows leaked like a sieve. It looked brand new, but did it ever leak.
I'm lucky enough to have a 37/96 a 34/96 both 4 voice, and a smaller Fantini 30/72. The 30/72 is perfect for folky music, it's as loud and assertive as I need, if I want to learn a tune or technique I always choose this instrument first. Size ain't everything!
I used to be a circus clown and as clowns we used to travel around with and keep our whole world inside steamer trunks, so space was always at a premium. A small instrument like a ukulele or concertina/small accordion was ideal and that preference has stayed with me till today.
Depends on what you are playing. If the song is going to need any notes beyond 2 octaves, (I mostly play Indian film music, and they quite frequently need that) it’s quite impractical.
I think a lot can be said about a person’s skill when they can do more with less. A talented musician can often pick up a cheap & limited instrument and make beautiful music with it.
You are really good Mosche. I have just ordered a small 48 bass. Yours and its case are in exceptional condition. I might get two and tune one dry for Austrian stuff and keep the other wet for French. 1. when I am learning a piece and writing down the fingering in pencil it is almost impossible with a 120 bass to reach over. 2. When I go to a party or gathering with a Hohner 120 bass, people expect the best!!!! And I am only average. 3. Turning up with a Dinky accordion people dont expect much but when they hear what can be done then they are delighted. 4.At age 72 now a 120 is heavy. I try to deny it but its heavy. We all shrink with age and now my chin rests on the top. It must look funny. Please please play lots of stuff on the 48 bass and if you have friends with one please get them to do you tubes on a small 48 bass accordion. I would greatly appreciate that. There is not much coverage on them on you tube. Thank you. Peter
Hello. I totally agree with you , great parallel with the cellphone camera always ready to shot in the fly and a small accordion to be able to play music, fun one in a party, during a small trek etc... What is for you the " ideal configuration" for such instrument ? Thank you
It's been so long since I've had a 48 or 60 button accordion around :( a good strong bass, and a musette would be nice. And a clean sounding single low reed. That's all 😀
I just bought an accordion JUST like that one; only mine is a grey marble!! I adore it!! I am starting to follow your tutorials and lessons and am planning on signing up for your website for lessons and sheet music!!
I have a 12 bass that is great for picking up and playing or sharing with someone to have a go at it has everything but the E bass so you have to "be creative" but any G C D songs, no problem
And Yes - I prefer the smaller accordion with g-g configuration and not the b-c (?) configuration most of the accordions have. I found g-g configuration had a much wider and better 'range' and which my Pietro had- ( personal opinion). Warm Regards.
Hey Ronen! Just bought my first accordion which happens to be this exact model (I saw it in the thumbnail and clicked immediately) for just 60 euros fully working at a second hand store during my trip here in Germany. I've had it a month or two now and it's perfect for exactly what you described. Just wondering what the song you were playing in the video was? It was slow and sweet!
Congratulations! Great deal! So I don't actually play a song in this video, I'm improvising over two chords. Here's a link to that style of music: accordionlove.com/course/easy-french-sounding-songs-with-major-sevenths/This isn't cool
I've got almost the same accordion as Ronen has here (started with it), but with 72 bass and also about 36 keys "on the right hand". Further I've got a 120 bass accordion. Both were bought by my father some years ago. I only play since this year and until now I almost only play the 72 bass accordion, also because I rather stand than sit when I play and it's much lighter.
I'm a singer/actor who plays the piano. I have the opportunity to appear in a production of the musical ONCE, where the entire show is accompanied by the actors onstage. The director wants me to learn to play the accordion. This smaller instrument looks perfect...Any suggestions for where I can get one? Your videos have been very informative. Thanks so much!!!
Dorothy, that's awesome! What a beautiful musical. Contact Martin @ Tempo Trend Music (www.tempotrend.ca/). I just finished playing another 48 bass Hohner that was just lovely. He can answer any questions you have or point you in the right direction. Let me know if you have any questions ronen@accordionlove.com
@@moshezuchter Ukrainian folk music, if you can believe it! It was mostly a vocal ensemble, but there were a couple dance tunes I needed to play accordion for. It was REALLY weird to play without the luxury of the counter bass row, but I made it work! The instrument itself is a nice little Galanti with a low and a middle reed on the treble side! The little thing punches FAR above it's weight in terms of sound!
@@moshezuchter It is pretty cool! I don't know if video exists of that particular show, but there are videos of the group on youtube. Ukrainian Village Voices! Pretty cool stuff if you ever get a minute to check us out!
Thanks Ronen, my 72 bass 34 treble has been gathering dust in its wheelie case. it's weight and bulkyness has been a disincentive to practice. I'm going to have to see if I can source something smaller locally.
Gosh I wish I had something smaller than my 120 bass. I inherited from my grandpa so Im not complaining too much but I just wish I had something lighter and smaller to learn on.
In the midst of the pandemic last year I bought a Delicia Junior 23 Červena Special. 26 treble piano keys but it has 3 sets of reeds with 5 awitches, 72 bass buttons and 2 bass switches yet it weighs no more.
Hi Ronen 🙂 Just curious, do you loosen your shoulder straps a bit when playing smaller accordions so you can support them on your left thigh when seated? Maybe I'm doing something wrong, but I feel like my smaller accordion is slipping out of my hands when I'm playing seated 😂 By the way, I'm learning and earning my oom pahs, lately.
Hey Mark, so, I don't have a great system with the smaller accordions. They tend to rest on my shoulders rather than my thigh. I wish I could get bigger straps on them.
@@moshezuchter Thanks Ronen, the "runaway" feeling might just be because I haven't developed proper left hand technique as yet. I did pay close attention to the the wrist manipulation that you mentioned in a prior comment and it is AWESOME. I'm starting to play some material that jumps around (by my standards LOL) and that was great advice. Thanks!
Looking to get my first accordion and really love the sound of this one. What should I look for if I want to pick up something with that sort of sound?
Just got my second accordion. A 32 bass Crucianelli. It is definitely nice to have a smaller instrument as well, although I will still use my 120 bass Hohner Atlantic IIIP for all my serious playing.
I recently sold my old Hohner full size 1950's 1120 bass. it was too heavy for me approaching the 80's. 'd like to find a smaller lighter one like this one. What is the one here in the video? 40 bass?
Hello. I see this is a Hohner 48 bass 26 key accordion. Can I ask what model it is and how much does it weigh. I have a Hohner Student 2 ,, 12 bass 25 key accordion at 9 pounds which is very nice and light. And Royal Standard 72 bass 31 key 12 pounds accordion. Both piano accordions. Thank you VERY much for posting this . I’m hoping I can find the accordion in this video.
Hi hi. This accordion wasn't mine - I just borrowed it for a few days to make the video. I don't remember the exact model, but you can call of email Martin from Tempo Trend Music for the exact model, weight, and price. 🙂 Thanks for writing!
@@moshezuchter Wow, thank you very much! Unfortunately I won't be able to watch it live because of the timezone difference, (unless it starts soon) but I'll definitely check it out when it's uploaded. Thank's again!
Hi moshe, what is this accordion called? Can you recommend any model similar to it for at most 300$, preferably less? Something good to start learning accordion on Thank you very much
Hi! I believe it's a Hohner but it's been a while... Not sure of the price of model. You can contact Martin at Tempo Trend Music for info. Link in description
What kind of accordion are you playing? I sold my big one some time ago, just too heavy for me at my age, but I've thought of getting some hslf-size or so, with musette like yours.
only problem is when you want that B minor. is there a session friendly small accordion that will allow you to hang out in keys of G,D,A,C? Or cheat by using the keys to get your Bm?
Please, what is name of this one? I think it looks perfect. Also can you maybe do wider comparisons video? I would adore to see how much this one can do on its own and also compared to others. I love the size. Thank you
A tone chamber, to my understanding, is an added "chamber" that sits on top of the treble reeds that gives a warmer sound. If you cup your hands and put them over your face while you speak, you'll notice the sound getting muted/more dull. That's what a tone chamber does. It not on ALL the reeds, just a select few. Really beautiful to play.
@@moshezuchter I came across this video which demonstrates it! He actually plays at about 3 1/2 minutes in. It gives a quieter and nasally sound which to me sounds like a church organ. th-cam.com/video/jsRpkqCX1v4/w-d-xo.html
I'm a beginner piano student. I love traditional music and I'm thinking about purchasing a piano free bass accordion to join my friends in folk jams where they play Irish, klezmer, etc. But I have serious issues with my arms so I need an instrument which is as light as possible. What would be the minimum range to be able to cover most traditional music with them (taking into account that I'm not going to be able to change the key to accommodate it to the range of my instrument)? The Hohner Bravo I 49 seems like a good option in terms of prize and size for me but I'm not sure if the range will be enough. It's the same range as that of the instrument that you play on the video. Thanks!!
Hi Ester. So, a 48 bass instrument will let you play full chords (majors, minors, 7, and diminished) on Eb, Bb, F, C, G, D, A, and E. 8 chords, times six chord positions, including a counter-bass row. If the majority of those traditional songs are in those keys, awesome! If not - for example, if a lot of the songs are in E major and call for the B7 frequently, you won't be able to play that B7 in its full glory. You'll have to just play it with your right hand, or 'fake' it by using the counterbass row (the B sits on top of the G chord). If you can get your hands on one to try, that would be ideal. Otherwise, a 60 or 72 bass instrument would be great, as they give you all of the chords.
Ahh, the same concept as keeping an acoustic guitar out of its case next to the couch. Hear something you want to play, reach over and grab the instrument.
You need some better straps on that little beauty...I agree, and try to play the smallest accordion possible, but I'm always limited by the shortened right hand keyboard length....I guess it's another reason that I should have learned a chromatic keyboard
I've got almost the same accordion as Ronen has here (started with it), but with 72 bass and also about 36 keys "on the right hand". Further I've got a 120 bass accordion. Both were bought by my father some years ago. I only play since this year and until now I almost only play the 72 bass accordion, also because I rather stand than sit when I play and it's much lighter.
1:30 That's the biggest flex I've seen someone does. Casually wearing not one but THREE Leicas hahah. You can probably buy 5 accordions with the price of one M6 Never knew you were into analogue photography that's really awesome to find another film shooter. What is your favourite film stock?
Iliya, I *wish* those were all mine. Mine was the m9 in that photo 😊 Unfortunately I haven't gotten into film photography, but I hear it's wonderful... A deep rabbit hole!
@@moshezuchter M9 is a beast nonetheless. Film photography is a deep rabbit hole for sure that I myself am still going down on it and loving every moment of it. Do give it a try. I'm sure you'll find the experience very special and amusing.
Sometimes you are hired to play in places where you have to walk while playing. A smaller accordion can make a difference in weight and you can play for a longer time without tiring. I used to have a 48 bass to play that kind of gigs. Thank you Moshe for your lessons and guidance. Greetings from Costa Rica!
Good point, Rodrigo! Hi from Canada 👋
I can not say from experience, but dropping a large accordion is not fun.
My childhood beginner box was a 20-bass. No minors, no 7ths, no diminished. Just lots of happy, simple, major-chord tunes.
I totally agree and have long said the same thing about any “tool” we might use; there’s a right time and use for every size.
👍 for Ronen "I've owned cameras before" Segall
I like to use my smaller accordions to warm up with. Then step up when the actual practicing happens. Thanks Ronen!
I made a decision a couple months back to get a little more serious about learning the accordion and this is exactly what I did. I didn't want to always have to bring out the monster if I wanted to practice for a short amount of time, nor to drag it around somewhere like camping. I purchased a smaller accordion that needed a little work (I'm slightly mechanically inclined) so I could have it with me when the muse hit.
I started off with two 120 full size accordions given to me by friends and they both sound great but they're about 30lbs each and are monsters. I recently found a smaller accordion in a local antique shop for $30, everything works, bellows were recently replaced and it doesn't sound half bad but its much smaller and easier to transport. It's still a 120 bass but it's half the size- says Accordiana on for the front, I guess that's a fractional size accordion. Either way I love it and I find myself practicing a lot more since I got it.
I listen to it and automaticaly smile. It Trasmit happiness. Thank You.
I so appreciate this! I just got a small (48 bass) accordion a few weeks ago, and love it for the same reasons you list. Always happy to find validation for having more than one of a given instrument! 😂
Love your channel and website. Keep up the great work!
Awesome! Congrats on the new instrument, Heidi! And thanks for the nice comment :)
Hi Moshe - You are simply wonderful ! I recall my 1950s when I chanced upon a 12 bass 'Pietro' German accordion, which was my first one and (whose sound still haunts me - and alas - sold as its several brass (?) reeds started breaking frequently . It had reed plates like a harmonica and sounded like a superfine Harmonica). Yes you are right - smaller accordions are beautiful , these are easily portable, and enjoyable ! Warm Regards.
Ronen,
Thank you for this view of small accordions. I have been a pianist and organist for 40 years, and last January bought a small Weltmeister, what fun it is. A new world has opened for me.
Jeannine Lynch
Lovely little instrument, right? Enjoy!
My first (proper) accordion was a second hand Chinese 'Cipelino' 32 bass that I got for finishing my SATs. When I decided it was 'too small' for me, I demoted it to being a secondary instrument that I kept at my grandparents' house, while I played a 120 bass. Recently though, I've been going outside to play and taking more walks because of Covid, so I dug the little 32 bass out and started playing it again while out and about. I used to constantly look for bigger and fuller accordions, but now I'm obsessed with the opposite; trying to find the ultimate small, portable instrument!
Awesome. Something that's easy to carry and has a full sound is the gold standard... I bought my 72 bass Weltmeister for a similar reason.
I have a guitalele (a small classical guitar, tuned a 4th up, basically) and I end up playing it so often because it's so small, light, it doesn't have an amazing tone, but projects sound quite well, doesn't cover conversation, and also it's more adapted for my voice range ^^
That is the exact accordion I bought in Germany a few years ago when I started to learn. Today I use it as my travel accordion. I can carry it on my back in a backpack and it’s treated as carry on luggage! I love it. It’s probably as old as me but it’s in great shape. The newer ones with the Honica label do not compare and I’ve returned the ones I purchased.
Awesome, James. Love that it counts as carry-on!
So, what brand is this accordion and what is it called specifically? I’m looking something for my 13-year old grandson who plays piano but wants to play accordion. He presently has a toy plastic accordion and can make beautiful music on it!!
I keep coming back to your videos on these small accordions because almost everything else out there about accordion sizes makes the claim that you can’t play music with anything smaller than a 72 bass.
It’s funny, because there are plenty of videos of people demonstrating to the contrary.
Man, I used to have that same accordion, my first one. I ended up selling it when I was ready for the full size. Watching this makes me wish I had kept it. At the time I told myself it'd be better if someone else had it to start playing, rather than me hoard it for the occasional session. Maybe I'll start looking for another one.
Amr, I was the same! I started on a white 48 bass Hohner that had the most beautiful sound. I also lent it to friends to learn, and eventually sold it for bigger instruments.
I'm falling in love with this little guy :)
I would never again part with any of my accordions!! I keep hoping to learn how to play them!!😂
So, can anybody tell me what type of accordion this is? My grandson would like a musette accordion, but needs a smaller size as he is 13. What are these smaller sized accordions called specifically? Can anyone hook me up with a good used one?
@@pollymoore9481 This is a "Hohner Student" model. They are classed by the number of bass buttons - 40 here. I have a very similar one, which just has one extra row of buttons, making it a 48-bass
@@steveparker9361 So Polly couldn't care to say thanks!
Hi Ronen. Very pleased to see you like the Hohner Student 40. My wife bought me exactly the same one for Christmas and I love it. Enjoying learning as a member of AccordionLove!! Keep up the good work!
Yay!
My first accordion was a mignon ll from hohner, now I play a Concerto lllT 😊 also from hohner
You can go even smaller and get a melodica! A normal-sized one fits in a carry-on, and they are inexpensive, so you don't have to be worry as much about something happening to them. There is no bass, but that can be fun too, since you can focus on melodies and adding right-hand chords for harmony.
Yes!! I'm a huge fan of melodicas. I picked one up at a music store while travelling... I had a tune stuck in my head and had no way of getting the song out, until *Melodica* 🙌
Yeah melodica is fun, you can mix the style of playing harmonica and accordion in melodica playing :)
th-cam.com/video/oBc3f-AHQgU/w-d-xo.html
I bought a small Roland and love 💕 it!! (So much that I ordered the 4x from Crown Music in AZ)
Hello! Would you please make a video about how to hold those smaller accordions properly ?
Thanks for making me feel better about buying another accordion and it’s a bigger one.
One can never have enough cameras or accordions :D
@@moshezuchter true I have two camera setups and in my defense I recently got rid of three accordions and now will be back up to three .
I have a small green Weltmeister 32 bass and it might be my favourite thing i've ever owned. Wonderful to pick up and tap away at musical ideas as you say.
Awesome, Sam. Seems like everyone has a small accordion except me 😄
Also great to have a small one for walkabout acts!
I want to have a career in the military and love the accordion. I would like smol accordion for compact size when im out in the field. Great campfire instrument size! Maybe even a garmoshka if I can find one here in the US 😂
Totally. Just make sure to keep it dry 🙂
I have not played 48bass instrument, but I sold my 80bas and bought 120 instead. I am a street musician and I Play 2-6 hours a day and what I found that it is easier to support larger accordion on my legs while sitting so my back and shoulders are not hurting in the end if a day. And there is a keyboard and base limitations, I had to change arrangement of songs even for 80 base. 48 makes it even more limited in chosing songs to Play.
This is brilliant! I totally agree! Currently selling an 80 bass Crucianelli because it's too big and heavy for me and I'm just not playing it! I bought a really cheap 32 bass Worldmaster in reasonable condition and I'M PLAYING IT! Selling the Crucianelli and I'll be buying a better quality small accordion, most likely just 48 bass.
So true! The best accordion is the one you'll PLAY :)
Hello dear Moshe ! I followed your advice and bought recently a Hohner button accordion Student 1, 72 basses if I remember well... I love thesound musette, and it is much easier to play, lighter and taking less place than my heavy Savoïa Hohner one with 120 basses... Many thanks and greetings from Eastern France. Alfred.
That's wonderful to hear, Alfred! Congratulations and enjoy your new instrument :)
Great accordions, those little guys!
One thing I noticed about accordions-smaller bass accordions tend to have the “wet” musette sound with either MM or LMM reeds. However, for dry beginner (or lightweight) accordions, you would see a smaller keyboard with a standard 120 bass.
You're correct. All the small ones I've tried have had that MM wet tuning
That Hohner is just soooooo sweet!
I got a hohner imperial IIa which is 32 base, it's probably one of the smallest accordions ever produced, and it's from the 1930's . It has a small gig bag, and I literally have it with me every where, I even take it with me on my work as a truck driver, or on the boat.
I just bought a Hohner imperial II online and got it from Serbia after a month. Doing a full restoration, actually a restomod. The trim and celluoid is missing pieces and delaminating, so I'm going to strip it to bare wood and paint it metal flake red with huge flakes. Also on my list is building new bellows and walnut frames. Also going to replace the keytops. I also know where to get recreations of the original metal hardware
Thank you for your reflections, I appreciate it. I have been playing according on and off since the mid 90s, and I have tried both small and large. I definitely see your reasons for appreciate a smaller accordion. However, I don’t really have the option of having two accordions, but to me a big 120 bass accordion is too large and heavy, and I have found my sweet spot in the middle, which is an accordion from The Italian brand Serenellini with 34 keys and 96 bases. Light enough to easy carry around, but big enough to make that full sound.
Greetings from Norway.
Oooh, the 34/96 or a 37/96 (I played one last week) is the PERFECT sweet spot. Thanks for your comment.
I totally agree with you ronen about small accordions. I camp and travel with my little 40 bass hohner starlet and play in a morris dance side. i practice on a welt meister rubin and perform on a 72 bass.I agree having different accordions for different purposes if possible is best.people prefer jamming with me on a small accordion as it is not as loud .
That's a good point re playing with other people and not being as intimidating
Hi Ronen! Really enjoy watching your videos. I'm especially enjoying this one because my first and only accordion is also small. The guy who sold it to me mentioned that it was a "lady's model" due to its size, but that didn't slow me down, lol. 120 bass, 41 piano keys... and if I'm feeling lazy I can sit on the couch and it's still up out of my lap 🙂What's not to like? Happy Holidays!
I love those "ladies" accordions, the narrow keys. No problem with it :) Happy holidays to you as well!
I love my 48. I'd like to have a 60, (so I will have a B row,) and 5 voices. I recently had romantic inclinations toward a used Castiglione 60. It was beautiful, had all the voices I wanted. But thanks to Ronen's excellent video on how to buy an accordion, I discovered that the bellows leaked like a sieve. It looked brand new, but did it ever leak.
Ooh, a 48 and 60 are ideal. That B range makes a big difference!
I like the idea of being able to dance while you play this
I'm lucky enough to have a 37/96 a 34/96 both 4 voice, and a smaller Fantini 30/72. The 30/72 is perfect for folky music, it's as loud and assertive as I need, if I want to learn a tune or technique I always choose this instrument first. Size ain't everything!
Thanks a lot.... great advice and I agree totally... greetings from Croatia!!
👋 from Canada 🙂
Great analogy! I would love to get a smaller one for this purpose. Thanks
This is great. I have a small Hohner Student model (4?). And a large Crucianelli. It is nice to have the two options.
Ah, yes some smaller accordion representation!
I used to be a circus clown and as clowns we used to travel around with and keep our whole world inside steamer trunks, so space was always at a premium.
A small instrument like a ukulele or concertina/small accordion was ideal and that preference has stayed with me till today.
I have this funny instrument too. I like the cool oldlooking design from the ‘50’s
The blingiest instrument around!
th-cam.com/users/shortsqt3lDMyz858?feature=shared
Depends on what you are playing. If the song is going to need any notes beyond 2 octaves, (I mostly play Indian film music, and they quite frequently need that) it’s quite impractical.
Yes, good point!
I have a Carlo Robelli 48 bass, and I love it! It has a great sound.
I think a lot can be said about a person’s skill when they can do more with less.
A talented musician can often pick up a cheap & limited instrument and make beautiful music with it.
You are really good Mosche.
I have just ordered a small 48 bass.
Yours and its case are in exceptional condition.
I might get two and tune one dry for Austrian stuff and keep the other wet for French.
1. when I am learning a piece and writing down the fingering in pencil it is almost impossible with a 120 bass to reach over.
2. When I go to a party or gathering with a Hohner 120 bass, people expect the best!!!!
And I am only average.
3. Turning up with a Dinky accordion people dont expect much but when they hear what can be done then they are delighted.
4.At age 72 now a 120 is heavy.
I try to deny it but its heavy.
We all shrink with age and now my chin rests on the top.
It must look funny.
Please please play lots of stuff on the 48 bass and if you have friends with one please get them to do you tubes on a small 48 bass accordion.
I would greatly appreciate that.
There is not much coverage on them on you tube.
Thank you.
Peter
Congrats, Peter! 48 bass is such a great size!
I’m looking for a accordion great for learning on and playing polka on in the future for fun
Hello. I totally agree with you , great parallel with the cellphone camera always ready to shot in the fly and a small accordion to be able to play music, fun one in a party, during a small trek etc... What is for you the " ideal configuration" for such instrument ? Thank you
It's been so long since I've had a 48 or 60 button accordion around :( a good strong bass, and a musette would be nice. And a clean sounding single low reed. That's all 😀
I just bought an accordion JUST like that one; only mine is a grey marble!! I adore it!! I am starting to follow your tutorials and lessons and am planning on signing up for your website for lessons and sheet music!!
Congrats, Astin! Love that accordion! Message me if you get stuck anywhere or have any questions.
Where was this video when I bought my FR8X?? Haha would saved me hours of shoulder rehab 😂
I have the exact accordion! It’s amazing. Only $300 on Facebook.
Great price!
I have a 12 bass that is great for picking up and playing or sharing with someone to have a go at it
has everything but the E bass so you have to "be creative" but any G C D songs, no problem
Awesome. Do you find the 12 bass limiting? I assume just majors
And Yes - I prefer the smaller accordion with g-g configuration and not the b-c (?) configuration most of the accordions have. I found g-g configuration had a much wider and better 'range' and which my Pietro had- ( personal opinion). Warm Regards.
Hice la misma improvisación en mi canal aprendo mucho contigo ya que no me sé las notas y tampoco tocar ambas manos un saludo 😊
Love this perspective.
Hey Ronen! Just bought my first accordion which happens to be this exact model (I saw it in the thumbnail and clicked immediately) for just 60 euros fully working at a second hand store during my trip here in Germany. I've had it a month or two now and it's perfect for exactly what you described. Just wondering what the song you were playing in the video was? It was slow and sweet!
Congratulations! Great deal! So I don't actually play a song in this video, I'm improvising over two chords. Here's a link to that style of music:
accordionlove.com/course/easy-french-sounding-songs-with-major-sevenths/This isn't cool
@@moshezuchter thank you! I appreciate it greatly, and love your content
Love this little Accordion but you can get a compact 72 bass Accordion that’ll give you more playing options and won’t be as big
I've got almost the same accordion as Ronen has here (started with it), but with 72 bass and also about 36 keys "on the right hand". Further I've got a 120 bass accordion. Both were bought by my father some years ago. I only play since this year and until now I almost only play the 72 bass accordion, also because I rather stand than sit when I play and it's much lighter.
I'm a singer/actor who plays the piano. I have the opportunity to appear in a production of the musical ONCE, where the entire show is accompanied by the actors onstage. The director wants me to learn to play the accordion. This smaller instrument looks perfect...Any suggestions for where I can get one? Your videos have been very informative. Thanks so much!!!
Dorothy, that's awesome! What a beautiful musical.
Contact Martin @ Tempo Trend Music (www.tempotrend.ca/). I just finished playing another 48 bass Hohner that was just lovely. He can answer any questions you have or point you in the right direction.
Let me know if you have any questions ronen@accordionlove.com
Very wise.
In the "Before-Times," I actually played a gig with a 12 bass, because I didn't feel like dragging anything bigger through driving snow!
Wow! What kind of music?
@@moshezuchter Ukrainian folk music, if you can believe it! It was mostly a vocal ensemble, but there were a couple dance tunes I needed to play accordion for. It was REALLY weird to play without the luxury of the counter bass row, but I made it work! The instrument itself is a nice little Galanti with a low and a middle reed on the treble side! The little thing punches FAR above it's weight in terms of sound!
Sounds awesome!
@@moshezuchter It is pretty cool! I don't know if video exists of that particular show, but there are videos of the group on youtube. Ukrainian Village Voices! Pretty cool stuff if you ever get a minute to check us out!
Thanks Ronen, my 72 bass 34 treble has been gathering dust in its wheelie case. it's weight and bulkyness has been a disincentive to practice. I'm going to have to see if I can source something smaller locally.
Gosh I wish I had something smaller than my 120 bass. I inherited from my grandpa so Im not complaining too much but I just wish I had something lighter and smaller to learn on.
i also have a small accordion 12 bass 25piano key accordion.
Sound good
Really useful. Thanks
In the midst of the pandemic last year I bought a Delicia Junior 23 Červena Special. 26 treble piano keys but it has 3 sets of reeds with 5 awitches, 72 bass buttons and 2 bass switches yet it weighs no more.
Wonderful!
@@moshezuchter And with good reflexes and flexibility we could wrap around the bass and chords. The Junior 23 was designed for a purpose as such.
@@moshezuchter I even boarded a plane from Puerto Rico to Florida with it as carry-on baggage!
@@moshezuchter During this summer I managed to play We Don't Talk About Bruno while practicing during my vacation stay in Maryland.
Always choose one with 2 rows heavy ground bass bottons.
Hi Ronen 🙂 Just curious, do you loosen your shoulder straps a bit when playing smaller accordions so you can support them on your left thigh when seated? Maybe I'm doing something wrong, but I feel like my smaller accordion is slipping out of my hands when I'm playing seated 😂 By the way, I'm learning and earning my oom pahs, lately.
Hey Mark, so, I don't have a great system with the smaller accordions. They tend to rest on my shoulders rather than my thigh. I wish I could get bigger straps on them.
@@moshezuchter Thanks Ronen, the "runaway" feeling might just be because I haven't developed proper left hand technique as yet. I did pay close attention to the the wrist manipulation that you mentioned in a prior comment and it is AWESOME. I'm starting to play some material that jumps around (by my standards LOL) and that was great advice. Thanks!
Best small accordion is very rare size 30 key/ 60 button. I have 3 accordions. 30/60, 37/96 and 41/120. 30/60/3 voices is my favorite.
Looking to get my first accordion and really love the sound of this one. What should I look for if I want to pick up something with that sort of sound?
A musette tuning. Two middle reeds. A "wet" sound
accordionlove.com/course/buying-new-vs-buying-used-accordion/
Que tipo de música es el 3:17 maestro? Donde puedo aprender algunas canciones de ese tipo? Gracias y un saludo
This was an improvisation, just two chords :)
Hi great stuff! Can I ask what the make and model is of your small red accordion?
It's a small Hohner Student accordion. I'm not sure of the model as it wasn't mine.
Just got my second accordion. A 32 bass Crucianelli. It is definitely nice to have a smaller instrument as well, although I will still use my 120 bass Hohner Atlantic IIIP for all my serious playing.
Congrats! Having two is such a pleasure :)
I recently sold my old Hohner full size 1950's 1120 bass. it was too heavy for me approaching the 80's. 'd like to find a smaller lighter one like this one. What is the one here in the video? 40 bass?
I'm learning the accordion soon and I just love the song at 3:18. Does anyone know what song that is?
That's an improvisation. I think it's two major 7th chords. C major 7 to F major 7.
@@moshezuchter I see, thank you! That was a great improvisation wow!
I have a 48 bass in the 12 x 4 format so no 7th row. Any suggestions as to how to fake a 7th on the bass side?
I would fake the 7 by playing it with your right hand, so, make sure you emphasize that note.
Hello. I see this is a Hohner 48 bass 26 key accordion. Can I ask what model it is and how much does it weigh. I have a Hohner Student 2 ,, 12 bass 25 key accordion at 9 pounds which is very nice and light. And Royal Standard 72 bass 31 key 12 pounds accordion. Both piano accordions. Thank you VERY much for posting this . I’m hoping I can find the accordion in this video.
Hi hi. This accordion wasn't mine - I just borrowed it for a few days to make the video. I don't remember the exact model, but you can call of email Martin from Tempo Trend Music for the exact model, weight, and price. 🙂 Thanks for writing!
Would you maybe care to show us a little on how to play Valse D'Amelie? Especially that fast part.
Sure! Will cover it on my livestream today (Feb 28)
@@moshezuchter Wow, thank you very much! Unfortunately I won't be able to watch it live because of the timezone difference, (unless it starts soon) but I'll definitely check it out when it's uploaded. Thank's again!
Hi moshe, what is this accordion called? Can you recommend any model similar to it for at most 300$, preferably less? Something good to start learning accordion on
Thank you very much
Hey, check your local used accordion listings.
Great info ! What brand is this little accordion ? Price ? Thanks.
Hi! I believe it's a Hohner but it's been a while... Not sure of the price of model. You can contact Martin at Tempo Trend Music for info. Link in description
What kind of accordion are you playing? I sold my big one some time ago, just too heavy for me at my age, but I've thought of getting some hslf-size or so, with musette like yours.
This is a 48 bass Hohner, with a wet "musette" tuning. Lovely instrument!
@@moshezuchter Thanks!
only problem is when you want that B minor. is there a session friendly small accordion that will allow you to hang out in keys of G,D,A,C? Or cheat by using the keys to get your Bm?
I think a 72 bass may be your best bet...
Please, what is name of this one? I think it looks perfect. Also can you maybe do wider comparisons video? I would adore to see how much this one can do on its own and also compared to others. I love the size. Thank you
I *think* this was the Hohner Student 40.
Would a small accordion be good for someone like myself who wants to learn to play?
Yes, but go for 48 or 72 bass, so as to not restrict yourself too much. Here's a video:
accordionlove.com/course/what-size-accordion-should-i-get/
@@moshezuchter Thank you!👍👍👍😀
How can I get a small one like that? Any recommendations please!
You can go used or new. Check out my other videos on buying a used accordion. Or contact the accordion store nearest you :)
That accordion is small enough that even if you don't have room in your car then you can put it on your kid's lap 😉
2:40 wait, what's a tone chamber?
A tone chamber, to my understanding, is an added "chamber" that sits on top of the treble reeds that gives a warmer sound. If you cup your hands and put them over your face while you speak, you'll notice the sound getting muted/more dull. That's what a tone chamber does. It not on ALL the reeds, just a select few. Really beautiful to play.
@@moshezuchter I came across this video which demonstrates it! He actually plays at about 3 1/2 minutes in. It gives a quieter and nasally sound which to me sounds like a church organ.
th-cam.com/video/jsRpkqCX1v4/w-d-xo.html
I'm a beginner piano student. I love traditional music and I'm thinking about purchasing a piano free bass accordion to join my friends in folk jams where they play Irish, klezmer, etc. But I have serious issues with my arms so I need an instrument which is as light as possible. What would be the minimum range to be able to cover most traditional music with them (taking into account that I'm not going to be able to change the key to accommodate it to the range of my instrument)? The Hohner Bravo I 49 seems like a good option in terms of prize and size for me but I'm not sure if the range will be enough. It's the same range as that of the instrument that you play on the video. Thanks!!
Hi Ester. So, a 48 bass instrument will let you play full chords (majors, minors, 7, and diminished) on Eb, Bb, F, C, G, D, A, and E. 8 chords, times six chord positions, including a counter-bass row. If the majority of those traditional songs are in those keys, awesome! If not - for example, if a lot of the songs are in E major and call for the B7 frequently, you won't be able to play that B7 in its full glory. You'll have to just play it with your right hand, or 'fake' it by using the counterbass row (the B sits on top of the G chord).
If you can get your hands on one to try, that would be ideal.
Otherwise, a 60 or 72 bass instrument would be great, as they give you all of the chords.
What is the brand and series of the small accordion? It looks really really cute!
Hi, I'm not sure of the make and model of this accordion. I was borrowing it from Martin at Tempo Trend Music.
Ahh, the same concept as keeping an acoustic guitar out of its case next to the couch. Hear something you want to play, reach over and grab the instrument.
Exactly! Or a small ukulele when the guitar's too far away ☺️
So what you're saying is - Size doesn't matter?
☺️🙌
😂😂👍🏻
You need some better straps on that little beauty...I agree, and try to play the smallest accordion possible, but I'm always limited by the shortened right hand keyboard length....I guess it's another reason that I should have learned a chromatic keyboard
I've got almost the same accordion as Ronen has here (started with it), but with 72 bass and also about 36 keys "on the right hand". Further I've got a 120 bass accordion. Both were bought by my father some years ago. I only play since this year and until now I almost only play the 72 bass accordion, also because I rather stand than sit when I play and it's much lighter.
What model Hohner Student is that? I own a Student II
I'm not sure which model this was, but it was lovely 😍
very neat
tutorial de estas canciones por favor
Would someone be able to tell me what “name” I should be searching for when looking for a smaller accordion like this?
You're looking for a 48 bass accordion. Hohner makes one. So do other manufacturers. 48 bass buttons is the differentiator.
Thank you!!
1:30 That's the biggest flex I've seen someone does. Casually wearing not one but THREE Leicas hahah. You can probably buy 5 accordions with the price of one M6
Never knew you were into analogue photography that's really awesome to find another film shooter. What is your favourite film stock?
Iliya, I *wish* those were all mine. Mine was the m9 in that photo 😊 Unfortunately I haven't gotten into film photography, but I hear it's wonderful... A deep rabbit hole!
@@moshezuchter M9 is a beast nonetheless. Film photography is a deep rabbit hole for sure that I myself am still going down on it and loving every moment of it. Do give it a try. I'm sure you'll find the experience very special and amusing.
Whats the sing he was olaying three minutes ??
At 3m20s I improvise a song with two chords.
@@moshezuchteromg😭 i love how music can be so simple and beautiful
What is the name of the song that was played?
Just some improvised little bits. Looks like I was playing major 7 chords (C major 7 to F major 7)
@@moshezuchter Wow thats impressive! I got a long way to go.