Concertina small

The small concertina is a bellows-driven musical instrument, relative of the accordion, used in European folk music and contemporary pieces.

About this subject

The concertina is a free-reed musical instrument operated by bellows, distinct from the accordion due to its button layout and softer tone. Invented in England in the early 19th century by Sir Charles Wheatstone and patented in 1829, it quickly gained popularity in classical and folk music, especially in Ireland and England. Unlike the accordion, which has keys or buttons on one side and chords on the other, the concertina has buttons on both ends, each producing a single note when the bellows are compressed or expanded. Two main types exist: the English concertina, with a chromatic button arrangement, and the Anglo-German, with a diatonic pattern, more common in Irish music. The small concertina, or treble concertina, is tuned an octave higher than the standard, often used in folk ensembles and historical film soundtracks. Notable players like Noel Hill and Brazilian Sérgio Moraes have helped keep the tradition alive. The concertina also appears in genres such as choro and forró, adapted by Brazilian musicians exploring its unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a concertina and an accordion?

The concertina has buttons on both ends, each producing a single note, while the accordion has keys or buttons on one side and chord buttons on the other. The concertina also has a softer sound and is smaller.

Is the concertina used in Brazilian music?

Yes, Brazilian musicians like Sérgio Moraes have adapted the concertina to genres such as choro and forró, blending its sound with local traditions.

What are the main types of concertina?

The main types are the English concertina (chromatic) and the Anglo-German (diatonic). The former is more common in classical music, the latter in Irish folk.