Bandoneon

The bandoneon is a type of concertina, a free-reed aerophone in which sound is produced by vibrating metal reeds inside a compact, bellows-driven box. It has two opposing button keyboards and a central bellows. Pressing a button produces a note, and the pitch can differ depending on whether the bellows are pushed or pulled. The instrument ranges roughly across three to four octaves and comes in various sizes and button layouts, with the number of keys varying by model.

The bandoneon was developed in Germany in the 1830s and 1840s by Heinrich Band, from whom it takes its name. It spread to Europe and the Americas, where it found a distinctive role in Argentine and Uruguayan tango music. In the early 20th century it became a staple of tango ensembles, prized for its expressive, lamenting tone and dynamic range. The instrument gained additional international attention through composers and performers who explored tango beyond its traditional form.

In performance, the bandoneon is typically held centrally, with both hands operating opposite-keyboards and the bellows providing continuous control of phrasing and dynamics. It is used in solo repertoire, chamber music, and large tango orchestras, and has also appeared in contemporary classical and folk contexts. While closely associated with tango, the instrument enjoys a broader presence in folk and modern experimental music.

Maintenance and construction vary by maker, but common considerations include air-tight bellows, reed alignment, and humidity control, all of which affect intonation and responsiveness. The bandoneon remains a defining symbol of tango culture and a versatile instrument in global concert music.