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Catalog

Button Accordions

11 instruments available · See the ranking

Hohner Varia One Button C Black

Button Accordions

$3,306€2,950Check ↗

Roland FR-1XB RD

Button Accordions

$2,106€1,879Check ↗

Hohner Varia One Button B Black

Button Accordions

$3,306€2,950Check ↗

Korg FISA SUPREMA C BMBK

Button Accordions

$8,179€7,299Check ↗

Scandalli Cromo VI Balkan

Button Accordions

$13,781€12,298Check ↗

Startone Button Accordion C-System BK

Button Accordions

$782€698Check ↗

Startone Button Accordion B-System BK

Button Accordions

$782€698Check ↗

Hohner XS Accordion Button grey

Button Accordions

$772€689Check ↗

Hohner XS Accordion Button blue

Button Accordions

$772€689Check ↗

Scandalli Air Mini C

Button Accordions

$5,019€4,479Check ↗

Scandalli Air Junior C

Button Accordions

$5,713€5,098Check ↗

About Button Accordions

Button accordions offer a unique and complex musical experience, favored by traditional folk musicians across Europe and beyond, particularly in genres like Balkan, Irish, and Cajun music. Unlike piano accordions, their button layout demands a different technique and often results in a distinct, characterful sound. Mastering a button accordion unlocks a rich heritage of musical expression.

Best for

Traditional folk musicsolo performanceensemble playingspecialized musical styles

What to look for

Button layout (bass and treble)reed configurationbellows responsivenesskey actionoverall build qualityinstrument weight

Button Accordions — pros & cons

Pros
  • Unique sound and tonal palette distinguishes button accordion playing.
  • Compact size and weight can be advantageous for travel and performance.
  • Offers a challenging and rewarding learning curve for dedicated musicians.
  • Traditional construction often yields exceptional durability and longevity.
Cons
  • Steeper learning curve compared to piano accordions.
  • Limited repertoire compared to more mainstream instruments.
  • Finding qualified instructors can be challenging.
  • Repair and maintenance can be more specialized and costly.

Questions about Button Accordions

What's the difference between chromatic and diatonic button accordions?

Chromatic button accordions have buttons that play all 12 notes of the western scale, while diatonic accordions are typically tuned to a specific key and play a limited range of notes.

Why are some button accordions referred to as 'Balkan' accordions?

This term generally describes accordions built with specific reed configurations and tuning systems common in Balkan folk music, often emphasizing drone notes and a particular timbre.

How does the button layout affect the playing style?

The unfamiliar button arrangement requires a different fingering approach and often encourages a more percussive and rhythmic playing style compared to piano accordions.

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