Musical Journey
How did you start playing the accordion?
The data collected from the 125 participants reveal a wide variety of experiences and influences:
An early initiation
Among the 61 participants who specified the age at which they started learning the accordion, it appears that initiation to this instrument generally begins in childhood, with an average age of around 8 years old.
The versatility of accordion players
In addition to their mastery of the accordion, many respondents indicate playing other instruments. Their repertoire extends from piano to guitar, violin to clarinet and saxophone, and even to more unusual instruments such as the mandolin or musical saw. This diversity reflects their openness to exploring different musical styles and instrumental techniques.
Family influence
Family influence on the beginning of accordion learning can take several forms:
Intergenerational transmission of musical passion: For example, many beginners were introduced to the accordion by family members, such as parents, grandparents, or siblings, who themselves were passionate players. For instance, A. started playing the accordion after seeing his grandfather play at family gatherings.
Cultural heritage and tradition: Some beginners were immersed in a family environment where the accordion was revered and practiced, prompting them to follow the musical path of their ancestors. For example, M. grew up in a family where Italian folk music was a tradition, naturally drawing her towards the accordion.
Family gifts and financial support: Some beginners received their first accordion as a gift from their parents or grandparents, demonstrating the support and encouragement of their family to pursue their musical passion.
Direct family teaching: In some cases, family members themselves acted as teachers or mentors, passing on their knowledge and expertise in accordion to the next generations.
In summary, family influence on the beginning of accordion learning goes beyond the mere transmission of musical skills; it also encompasses the expression of cultural heritage, emotional and financial support, as well as the creation of strong family bonds around music.
Formal music education
From informal learning to formal music education, there is often a key transition in the musical development of accordionists:
Transition from informal learning to formal music education: In many cases, accordion learning begins informally, often influenced by family members or personal experiences, then continues within the framework of formal music education, combining both lessons with private teachers, classes in music schools or conservatories, and sometimes specialized programs or participation in musical ensembles.
The crucial role of formal music education: Respondents indicate that this structured approach allows them to acquire not only a solid technical and theoretical foundation but also to develop their musical skills in a collaborative environment, especially group performance (orchestras or ensembles).
Formal music education offers accordionists much more than just technical instruction; it is an essential pillar for their artistic development and musical versatility.
Personal curiosity and fascination with the accordion
The decision to start playing the accordion is often guided by a personal passion and deep curiosity for this versatile instrument:
Attraction to a specific musical style: Some beginners have been drawn to specific musical styles associated with the accordion, such as Eastern European music, Italian folk music, or Argentine tango.
Fascination with the instrument itself: Several respondents have shared their fascination with the accordion itself, especially for its versatility and potential to express a wide range of musical emotions.
Inspiration from specific artists or performances.
Desire to express oneself musically.
Cultural influences
Cultural and contextual influences have also played a significant role in the beginning of accordion learning for many beginners:
Regional and national influences: In certain regions and countries, the accordion holds a particularly important place in local music and culture, such as French musette, Argentine tango, Brazilian forró, and sertanejo.
Social and community events: Social and community events such as weddings, festivals, or local celebrations have often exposed beginners to the accordion and sparked their interest in the instrument.
Media and popular cultural influences: The accordion is sometimes featured in the media and popular culture, which can influence beginners' interest in the instrument.
Connection with specific musical traditions: Some beginners have been influenced by specific musical traditions associated with the accordion, such as folk music, jazz, or circus music.
In summary, cultural and contextual influences, whether related to family heritage, regional musical traditions, social events, or popular media, have contributed to shaping interest in the instrument and can be decisive in starting to play the accordion.
Coincidences and fortuitous opportunities
A commonly recurring response among participants is the role of coincidences and fortuitous opportunities that served as the starting point for the musical journey with the accordion.
Fortuitous opportunities for lessons or instrument loans: Some beginners started playing the accordion by chance when they had the opportunity to take lessons or borrow an instrument.
Accidental discovery of the instrument: For some, their first encounter with the accordion was the result of an accidental discovery (at an event, while practicing another cultural activity, or sometimes by default when there is no more space to enroll in piano or violin classes at schools).
To go further…
In terms of practical and concrete conclusions, the following elements can be deduced from the analysis of the various factors influencing the beginning of accordion learning:
Supporting the intergenerational transmission of musical skills: recognizing the key role of family influence; and providing emotional and financial support to members eager to learn the accordion.
Facilitating access to formal music education: promoting access to music schools, conservatories, and private teachers to develop beginners' musical skills, creating opportunities for access to accordion lessons, and initiating accordion learning from a young age.
Encouraging individual curiosity: stimulating interest in the accordion by offering a variety of educational resources and opportunities for musical exploration.
Creating an enriching cultural environment: fostering the celebration of diversity in musical styles and encouraging participation in local musical life.
By understanding and leveraging the various factors influencing the beginning of accordion learning, we can create an environment conducive to musical growth and the promotion of the cultural richness of this instrument.