Tips for Accordionists

The following pictures are a re-creation of Charles Magnante's Practical Suggestions for the Accordionist. This information is as relevant today as when it was published in 1936.

	How to properly remove the accordion from its case.
	Correct sitting position before strapping accordion to the shoulders.
	Right shoulder strap should go on first.
	Placing left strap on shoulder.

	Correct sitting position. This is very important and should be carefully noted. Extend the right foot for bracing, as shown, with fingerboard resting on right thigh. Have bellows rest on left thigh. Note black keys under chin.
	Correct standing position. Note black keys under chin. Keyboard high. Extending bellows. Pull with left strap as near straight as possible, with all tension on left strap. Forearm should not brace against inner side of bass board panel, but may rest lightly, though firmly upon it.
	Complete left side view.

	Close-up of right hand. Elbow to second joint of fingers must be in straight line; with fingers parallel to treble keys. In playing high, lower the right shoulder, to keep the right hand fingers parallel to keyboard.
	Close-up of left hand. Note left hand position carefully. Second joint of thumb should come precisely to the edge of the bassboard. Naturally, it is thus necessary to curve the left hand fingers to touch the bass keys readily. The bass strap must be loose enough to permit the left hand to slide up and down without causing pain to the muscles of the back of the left hand.