Why not accordion ?


To my point of view it's one of the most universal solo instruments, but not widely accepted in any classical or jazz orchestras or bands. It's also sophisticated. I'd say extremely sophisticated. In order to deliver smooth and artistic sound it may require long and extensive practice to handle bellows and position your hands properly. In addition there are two button boards that can deliver sophisticated polyphonic parts that can create an impression of small band inside one instrument. You can also count on fingers great accordionists while you can have an endless list of great guitarists or saxophonists.
czarivey
If you can find them, there were two CDs (re-releases of Vanguard recordings) made by the Hohner Accordion Orchestra, called Accordiorama and Accordiarama 2, which are a lot of fun. I believe they date from the early 60s. Light classics and show tunes, all very well-played. Truly a unique sound.

I also recall attending a concert by the (sadly) now defunct Colonial Symphony in Morristown, NJ where they played a concerto for a similar instrument (bandeleon) composed by a contemporary Latin American composer. Do not recall the soloist, but I believe he was local to the northern NJ area. Perhaps Frogman might know who and what I'm thinking of. And Cz, you're right, the tonal colors and dexterity of the soloist were astounding.

Finally, when I was playing in a rock band back in the 60s, the organist in our group also played in another band and would sometimes play an electric accordion instead of the organ. He got some incredible sounds out of that instrument.
Czarivey - Not the style of music you'e likely thinking of but the greatest accordionist I've ever heard is Flaco Jiménez, the Conjunto, Norteño and Tejano music master from San Antonio. His command of the instrument and his musical range are exceptional.

He's won six Grammy awards including a Lifetime Achievement Award and has worked with a long list of other great (or famous) musicians including Ry Cooder, David Lindley, Peter Rowan, Doug Sahm, The Rolling Stones, Dr. John, Dwight Yoakam, and many others.
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