The concertina is a unique and charming musical instrument that belongs to the accordion family. It is characterized by its bellows and buttons, producing a rich sound that can be both melodic and rhythmic. The 30 button concertina is especially popular among folk musicians and is a great choice for beginners. In this article, we will explore how to play the 30 button concertina, covering its structure, how to hold it, basic techniques, and tips for playing simple songs.
What is a 30 Button Concertina?
Before we begin, let’s understand what a 30 button concertina is. This instrument consists of:
Bellows: The bellows are the heart of the concertina. They push air through reeds to create sound. You control the sound by expanding and compressing the bellows.
Buttons: The 30 button concertina has 30 buttons on each side. These buttons produce different notes and chords. The layout of these buttons varies, but they typically include both melody notes and chords.
Reeds: Inside the concertina, there are metal reeds. When air passes through them, they vibrate and produce sound. Each button corresponds to a specific reed.
The 30 button concertina is compact and easy to carry, making it a great choice for musicians on the go.
Getting Started: Holding the Concertina
Before you can play, you need to know how to hold the concertina properly. Here’s how:
1. Position the Straps
The concertina has two straps that help you hold it securely. Put your thumbs through the straps and position the instrument comfortably in your hands. The concertina should rest against your chest.
2. Keep it Steady
Hold the concertina steady with both hands. Your left hand will typically play the bass notes, while your right hand plays the melody.
3. Posture
Good posture is important. Sit or stand up straight. This will help you play better and reduce fatigue.
Understanding the Button Layout
The Right-Hand Side
The right-hand side of the concertina is where you play the melody. The buttons are arranged in rows, and each button corresponds to a specific note. Here are some common notes you will find:
C, D, E, F, G, A, B: These are the natural notes, and they are usually found in ascending order.
Sharps and Flats: Depending on the arrangement, some buttons may play sharps or flats.
The Left-Hand Side
The left-hand side typically contains buttons for bass notes and chords. Here’s what you can expect:
Bass Notes: These buttons produce the fundamental bass notes, such as C, G, and F.
Chords: You will also find buttons that play major and minor chords, enhancing the harmony of your music.
Understanding the layout is crucial for playing melodies and harmonies effectively.
Basic Techniques for Playing
1. Using the Bellows
The bellows are essential for producing sound. Here’s how to use them effectively:
Inhale and Exhale: Pull the bellows apart (inhale) to let air in, and push them together (exhale) to release air. This movement creates sound.
Control the Pressure: The volume of the sound depends on how quickly you move the bellows. Slow movements produce softer sounds, while fast movements create louder sounds.
Practice Bellows Control: Start by practicing moving the bellows without pressing any buttons. This will help you get a feel for the instrument.
2. Playing the Buttons
Finger Placement: Use your right hand to play the melody and your left hand for the bass. Your fingers should rest comfortably over the buttons.
Pressing Buttons: Press the buttons firmly to produce sound. Each button corresponds to a specific note or chord.
Practice Patterns: Start with simple patterns, such as playing a single note followed by a chord. This will help you develop coordination between your hands.
3. Combining Hands
Once you are comfortable playing with each hand separately, you can start combining them. This is where the concertina truly shines.
Simple Exercises: Choose a simple melody to play with your right hand. As you play the melody, add bass notes with your left hand. Start with a single bass note that matches the melody.
Use Chords: Once you feel comfortable, try using chords in your left hand. For example, if your melody is in C major, play the C major chord in your left hand.
Learning Simple Songs
Now that you have the basics down, let’s learn a few simple songs to practice your skills. Here are three easy songs to get you started:
1. “Mary Had a Little Lamb”
Melody: The melody is simple and uses only a few notes. Play it on the right-hand side of the concertina.
Bass Notes: Use the bass note for E and C for the other lines.
2. “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”
Melody: This classic children’s song is great for beginners. Play it on the right-hand side.
Bass Chords: Use the C major chord for the first line, G major for the second, and F major for the third.
3. “Ode to Joy”
Melody: This well-known melody is perfect for practicing.
Bass Notes: Use C, G, and F chords to accompany the melody.
Advanced Techniques
Once you feel comfortable with the basics and simple songs, you can explore more advanced techniques.
1. Playing Chord Progressions
Learn common chord progressions to enhance your playing. A popular progression is the I-IV-V progression, which in the key of C is C-F-G. Practice switching between these chords while playing melodies.
2. Adding Ornamentation
As you gain confidence, you can add embellishments to your playing. This could include:
Trills: Quickly alternating between two adjacent notes.
Grace Notes: Playing a quick note before the main note to add flair.
3. Experimenting with Styles
Explore different musical styles. The concertina can play folk, classical, jazz, and pop music. Try playing in different styles to find your favorite.
Caring for Your Concertina
To keep your 30 button concertina in good condition, follow these care tips:
1. Regular Cleaning
Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth. Avoid using moisture, as it can damage the reeds.
2. Humidity Control
Store your concertina in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, which can affect the reeds.
3. Regular Maintenance
Occasionally, take your concertina to a professional for tuning and maintenance. This will ensure it stays in good playing condition.
Tips for Successful Practice
Here are some practical tips to make your practice sessions more effective:
1. Set Goals
Establish clear goals for each practice session. Whether it’s mastering a new song or improving your bellows control, having a goal will keep you focused.
2. Practice Regularly
Consistency is key. Try to practice a little every day, even if it’s just for 15-20 minutes. This will help you build muscle memory and improve your skills.
3. Record Yourself
Recording your practice sessions can be incredibly helpful. It allows you to listen to your playing and identify areas for improvement.
4. Play Along with Music
Playing along with recordings of your favorite songs can be a fun way to practice. It helps you develop your timing and rhythm.
5. Join a Group
Consider joining a local music group or finding online communities of concertina players. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can be very motivating.
Conclusion
Playing the 30 button concertina can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With its unique sound and portability, it’s a wonderful instrument for musicians of all levels. By understanding the basics of holding the concertina, playing the buttons, and practicing simple songs, you can develop your skills and enjoy making music. Remember to be patient with yourself as you learn. With practice and dedication, you will become a proficient concertina player.
