akordeon

The akordeon, commonly known as the accordion, is a portable, box-shaped musical instrument that produces sound when a bellows is expanded and compressed. Air is pushed through reeds inside the instrument, and sound is generated as the reeds vibrate. The melody is typically played on a keyboard or button system on the right-hand side, while the left hand provides accompaniment with bass notes and chords.

Two main families exist: piano accordions, which have a piano-style keyboard on the treble side, and button accordions, which use a grid of buttons for the melody. The left-hand side may use a Stradella bass system, with fixed chords and bass notes, or a free-bass system that allows more complex bass lines. Some models also include registers or switches that alter timbre by selecting different reed sets.

Historically, the akordeon was developed in Europe in the early 19th century. Early versions appeared in the 1820s, with inventors such as Friedrich Buschmann and Cyril Demian contributing to its development. The instrument spread broadly and diversified into chromatic and button variants. The related bandoneon, a compact button accordion, became iconic in Argentine tango.

Construction and use vary, but most instruments feature a wooden or plastic body, metal reeds, and bellows with leather or synthetic joints. The akordeon is employed in many musical traditions, including folk, classical, and popular music, with regional styles across Europe, the Americas, and beyond. Proper maintenance focuses on bellows integrity and reed tuning, as humidity and wear can affect performance.