Kimberly

Well, hoping I did not make a mistake, I took a chance and purchased a used Bastari on Ebay. It is a 30b Anglo with metal sides and buttons. I have not been able to find out anything about the model it may be but the auction number was 130092458405 if anyone has the time to take a look for me. Other people, one of which appeared to be a dealer, were bidding on it, so if I am disappointed or it turns out to be a renovation project hopefully I can get back what I paid. Hopefully it is what it appears. I have been reading mixed reviews about Italian made concertinas, but most of them seem to be about the cheaper Stagi's and old plastic Bastari's so I'm hoping this one is of better quality and in not too bad condition. If not I will probably go with the Rochelle, maybe I will get lucky with this one and not have to upgrade right away. I appreciate everyone's input. I am also considering attending the Noel Hill school in New York if I can get off from work those days and the registration is still open. This is quite a little network everyone has going. Now, if I can just get my Scottish born husband playing the Deering banjo I bought him, we might be onto something

Hi, I am looking to purchase a beginner level concertina that is not junk. I don't have a lot of money to spend but would be willing to go to about $500.00. I am interested in learning to play in the Irish style and do not know if I should puchase an Anglo 20 or 30 button. I would mainly be looking to eventually play in sessions and possibly with a small group if I take to it well. My background is in piano, clarinet and piping, and as I have been out of commission witha two year old at home I am looking to move on to something more useful and practical. I have been researching the lower end concertinas and they all seem to be pretty junky. I was looking at the Hohner D-40 but then thinking this was also probably not that great. I was also considering going to a local auction to purchase a used one but I wouldn't know really what I was looking at or what can be repaired and what can't. I also do not want purchase soomething that is going to discourage me from learning. I would appreciate any input you may have, unfortunately right now I am not in a position to spend $1500.00 plus on an instrument. I would also be looking for some lessons in the Monmouth County, New Jersey area. Thanks Kimberly