Chromatic Accordions
The modern chromatic accordion was invented around the turn of the century. Though somewhat rare in the United States, it is very popular in many other countries, and in fact is the preferred accordion in Sweden, France and Norway. It is fully chromatic and gives the same note on the push and pull of the bellows. The treble side has 3 to 5 rows of buttons set up in minor thirds (diminished chords) allowing one to play in many keys with a single fingering pattern (all keys with the same pattern with the 5 row). The bass side can have a similar chromatic arrangement (called a "free bass") or a "Stradella" bass as is typical amongst piano accordions. Chromatic accordions vary greatly in their size and range: 2 to 3 1/2 octave range in the treble side, with 2 to 5 reeds per note and 12 to 140 bass buttons in the bass side. Theirweight varies from 8 to 30 lbs. Many instruments come with switches that change the reed configuration to give different tonal characteristics.
Our selection of new chromatic accordions is limited to a few popular makes and models. We do, however, have access to virtually any brand on the market and are able to sell them at competitive prices.
- Model 606: 77 (43) treble in 5 rows, 96 bass, 3/4 reeds, 5/2 switches. Black. With case and straps
- Model 609: 92 (49) treble in 5 rows, 120 bass, 3/5 reeds,7/3 switches, with case and straps
