nula

Thanks for the info. No Tedrow Standard or Edgely models on that list, though. Any ideas how they weigh in?

Prior to buying my first anglo, I see that weight is a factor not to be overlooked, especially with carpal tunnel twinges. Could anyone tell me what would be considered a fair weight or too heavy? Especially, what is the weight of a Tedrow Standard or Edgely [or similar quality Morse] (wooden ends)? Also, as I have to think of my neighbours when making my music, and I don't imagine I'll be doing public performances, are the thee models I mention regarded as 'quiet'? I've read references here to some anglos being 'nice and loud', which wouldn't interest me. I prefer a nice mellow 'sea shanty' type tone, rather than volume to fill a dance hall. Any advice very welcome.

But it doesn't have CD. As an absolute beginner myself I wouldn't find a book without CD or DVD very helpful. In fact, in these supermultimedia days, I can't imagine why any music tutor book wouldn't have accompanying audio or visual.

Could someone clarify the relative hierarchy of anglo concertinas, as I find it a bit confusing. Stagis and Rochelles etc., are the lower end, right? Then come hybrids such as Tedrow and Edgely. But aren't these quality makes? What makes them hybrid and does that term imply some devaluation of quality? What makes are considered above these (i.e. 'real' anglo concertinas)?

A huge thanks for all the great advice so far, everybody! It's good to hear from other (ex-) newbies who recently were in my position, and seasoned players, too. My usual inclination with musical instruments (beautiful enough in their own right before you even touch 'em...) is to get the best right off, and I'm inclined to do this with the anglo concertina as well. The only caution I have is that it might be wise to see if and how my carpal tunnel problem works with the new instrument. From this perspective it might make sense to hold back, go with the Rochelle (positive and neg points noted) for a few months or so, then upgrade. On the other hand... nula

I thought it was 'Royal Society for the Promotion of Concertinas to Animals...

Hello I'm thinking of taking up the 30-key Anglo Concertina and would appreciate it greatly if members could clarify and give advice on some things I'm unclear about. I have read the forum/archives and have learned a lot from that, but still need advice on the following: Basically, I did buy an Anglo about 5 years back, intending to get stuck in then. Unfortunately, the concertina (a Stagi, I think) turned out to be very poor quality (for around $750...) and had faults that led to my having to return it. There wasn't anything else in that price range available, so I just gave up and moved on. But I've got the bug again... Questions 1. I'll be using 'Anglo Concertina Demystified' and 'How to Play Anglo Concertina' (Edgely) DVD, plus the other stuff that I've seen here linked to You Tube. No teacher within, I'd guess, thousands of miles, so I'll have to go with this. Should I add anything to the list? 2. The Anglo I had years back (for a week or so) gave me some problems/discomfort because of the leather strap design. It just didn't seem to be adjustable to the degree I needed it. I've seen references here about what seems to be an intrinsic design problem with the Anglo (vs the 'ergonomic' designs some are working on). I read that one make has an option of adjustable palm/hand/wrist support block, which sounds great. Is there such an option? Also, could anyone suggest which strap type would offer the most comfort and flexibility? 3. Connected to 2 above, really. My reason for asking about hand rest and strap is that I picked up a slight carpal tunnes/tenonitis problem (left hand) over some years of playing guitar. It's under medical control, but I do have to be very careful about left hand positioning and stress. Is this kind of injury common with the Anglo? I also have small hands. Is that something I should put to the maker when I order a hand built model? Is there a danger that standard size will be hard for me to play? 4. Re buying an Anglo (I haven't got one yet), after reading up here all the info and links, I'm thinking of going for something like a Tedrow/Homewood or Edgely. As far as I can tell, they both have the option of buying a starter Rochelle model to upgrade later, which is sound. Is the Rochelle good enough for a starter, though?? That's a very low price and I'm just worried it will be a beast to hold or play. Can't recall why, but it seems the Jeffries layout would be better (and the tutor book is based on that). Tedrow's site quotes $50 for 'modified Jeffries system and $150 with full Jeffries system. What's the difference and if I plan to go for Jeffries system in the made to order one later, should I opt for the $150 option now? 5. Is a 30-key enough or would anyone recommend a larger size? Many thanks in advance! 'nula'