We regret that we are not able to run Accordion courses in the 2022/23 year.
Try before you buy: we have some accordions to hire for a small termly fee.
An instrument whose popularity transcends the folk world and is commonly found playing in many different musical disciplines from jazz to classical, although its popularity within the folk culture is probably unrivalled. Of European descent, its current design was created around the 1860s and has spread world-wide adopting local musical styles due to its flexibility.
This course aims to show the range of techniques through tunes and musical arrangements with the emphasis on the English tradition and with an open mind towards other folk accordion traditions from around the world.
For this course you will need a piano accordion with Stradella/Standard Bass system, which is one of the most common accordion bass systems. Accordions come with different numbers of basses, that is the small buttons on the left-hand side of the instrument. Although this could be anything from 8 to 160 basses, as a beginner we recommend that you get an accordion with 48 basses. This will be enough to learn all the usual accordion techniques and will be easier to learn. Our rental instruments all have 48 basses.
Accordion classes
Accordion Level 2
For beginners with some basic knowledge
(We do not run a Level 1 Accordion course)
You do not need to have played the accordion before to join this class, but you should have some experience of playing a keyboard instrument such as piano, and be able to find your way around a keyboard.
The class is taught by ear, and we may also look at some basic music theory and notation as the class progress.
How to master the chords and bellows of this wonderful instrument will become apparent as the course unfolds!
Expect to be able to play at least two tunes with simple accompaniments (major and minor chords) by the end of the first term. During the second term the course will concentrate on how to enhance tunes using the counter bass rows and by using more complex harmonies. Different styles of accompaniment will also be introduced.
Accordion Level 3-4
For Improvers and Intermediate players
In this class we look at more complex tunes and different styles. Exploring different methods to enhance, vary and develop melodies is the central part of this course.
Classes are primarily taught by ear although notation may be provided as a complement or for practice at home between sessions.
Pre-entry level requirements
Level 2
Experience of the piano keyboard is essential. You do not need to have played accordion before. Classes are taught by ear.
Level 3-4
You should have a good knowledge of the layout of the left hand and be able to play both hands together fluently. Classes are taught by ear.
How can I take part?
We run Saturday Folk Music Workshops in Banjo, Fiddle, Guitar, Melodeon Song and Ceilidh Band. Why not do several on the same day?