French accordions and their romantic tunes

Author:

Published:

Updated:

French accordion music

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties. It supports the website. So, thank you!

Why do we associate an accordion with France?

We associate accordion music with many cultures but the sounds of French accordion tunes are unmistakably unique and romantic. Most people today would say that an accordion is a French instrument.

Well, that could certainly be a valid claim for anyone who has spent some time in France or is a fan of French cinema. If you’ve visited Paris, chances are, you’ve encountered a street or a subway accordionist at least once. Why we associate French culture with the sounds of an accordion is beautifully described in this article.

Italian Influence on French Music

Accordions were brought to France by ethnic Italians from the Auvergne region in the late 1800s. We are grateful to Italians for that because it resulted in the birth of the Ball-Musette, a traditional French folk dance often referred to as “Musette Waltz.”

The Ball-Musette is danced by couples to the sounds of accordion music. Frenchman, Emile Vacher is credited for the invention of this fun dance. For more information please refer to this article.

French craftsmen started making authentic French “squeezeboxes” right after the first ones arrived from Italy. Some noteworthy French accordion brands are Bonifassi, Peguri, Marzella and Carrara.

Even though their names sound authentic Italian, these are French-made musical instruments with a great reputation. France produced some of the world’s finest accordionists who left an amazing musical legacy. A noteworthy figure in this arena is Louis Peguri.

Museum of French accordions in Canada

We know that the French language is spoken in North America as well. Yes, In Quebec. French Canadians are sharing their love for traditional French accordion tunes with their ancestors in Europe. Canada has its museum of accordions in Montmagny city. This museum is definitely worth paying a visit if you are visiting or living in Canada.

Best beginner’s accordion for playing French tunes

French accordionists play both, piano and button accordions. If you are a beginner, we recommend a medium-range (96-bass)piano accordion. Any good piano accordion will honestly serve you well.

Getting a piano accordion with two or three sets of middle reeds will produce that rich “Musette” sound. Whether you are buying a new accordion or looking to buy a refurbished one, here in the US and Canada, we’ve got plenty of choices when it comes to quality piano accordions. Below, we’ve listed some choices of accordions suitable for playing French tunes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest posts

  • Give the gift of music this year, an Accordion!

    Give the gift of music this year, an Accordion!

    Buying a musical instrument to give as a gift is tricky, but everyday people are gifting instruments that often prove to be the spark that ignites the start of a successful music career. While selecting an accordion can be particularly daunting, we can help you navigate through this process and make sure you find an…

    Read more

  • Beautiful sounds of Gypsy Accordion Music

    Beautiful sounds of Gypsy Accordion Music

    Accordionists worldwide find solace in gypsy music, a captivating sound that has left its mark on virtually every folklore genre. Perfecting this unique style requires dedication and skill, but it is undeniably worth striving for! From ancient history to contemporary rhythm – learn all about traditional Roma tunes now and how they continue to mesmerize…

    Read more

  • Best Accordion Love Songs for Valentine’s Day

    Best Accordion Love Songs for Valentine’s Day

    For almost a century, accordionists have produced some of the most romantic and beautiful love tunes ever heard. No wonder accordion melodies have stood the test of time when expressing love or other powerful emotions. So pull out your accordion and prepare for an unforgettable Valentine’s night with the most amazing romantic tunes for the…

    Read more