Piano Accordion

The piano accordion is a free-reed instrument with a piano-style keyboard on the treble side and a series of buttons on the bass side. The keys and buttons are used to produce different pitches when the bellows are pushed or pulled. The piano accordion is popular in various music genres including Celtic music where it is used for both melody and accompaniment.

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History

The piano accordion was invented in the mid-19th century in Europe and quickly gained popularity due to its versatility and ease of use for those familiar with the piano. It was introduced to Celtic music in the early 20th century where it became a staple instrument in Irish, Scottish, and other regional styles.

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Role in Celtic Music

In Celtic music, the piano accordion is often used as both a melody and accompaniment instrument. It can play intricate and ornamented melodies as well as provide rhythmic support with chordal accompaniment. Its rich and expressive sound complements other traditional Celtic instruments such as the fiddle, tin whistle, and flute making it a valuable addition to the ensemble.

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Playing Techniques

Bass and Chords: The left-hand side of the accordion is used to play bass notes and chords providing harmonic support for the melody played on the right-hand side.

Bellows Control: The use of the bellows to control dynamics, articulation, and phrasing adding expressiveness to the music.

Ornamentation: The use of various techniques, such as grace notes, trills, and mordents to embellish and decorate the melody, a characteristic feature of Celtic music.

Legato and Staccato: The use of different articulations and touch on the piano-style keyboard to create a variety of textures and expressions in the music.

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Notable Piano Accordion Players

Phil Cunningham: A Scottish accordionist and composer known for his virtuosic playing, innovative compositions, and collaborations with other prominent Celtic musicians such as Aly Bain and Silly Wizard.

James Keane: An Irish piano accordion player based in New York admired for his energetic playing style, impeccable technique, and pivotal role in the Irish music scene in the United States.

Karen Tweed: An English accordionist with a deep connection to Irish and Scottish traditional music known for her emotive playing and work with bands like The Poozies and Swåp.

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