Capt. Everett

As far a playing the bass side of a cajun box: I use my index finger and little finger for the bass keys and I press the air button with the heel of my hand, not my thumb. Rather than an Ariette, get a Hohner model 114, especially those made in Germany. The 114 is much better than the Ariette and can be "just" tuned to give it a real cajun sound..Don't get a Gabanelli "Cajun King". Better off with the Hohner 114 until you can get the "real thing" made by one of the several builders in Louisana and south east Texas. Jude Moreau and Ed Poullard in Texas make very nice boxes at a good deal lower price than builders like Marc Savoy (Acadian). Savoy's boxes are fabulous if you can afford one or find one used. Junior Martin (Martin) is perhaps the builder with the next best known reputation other than Larry Miller, whose boxes are now made under his supervision by his son. Over all, you can't go wrong with a hand made Louisiana box from any of a dozen or more builders.

My Lachenal english 48 was made 150 years ago...it is incredible that such a complex little musical machine is still eminently playable after so long a time. It also continues to amaze me how quickly you can learn to play a simple tune on it...and then there are the virtuoso players!!! Something to aim for. I admit I mainly play melodeon and mandolin, but my Lachenal is never far away.

I'll add to the fun with this link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/261168715109?_trksid=p5197.c0.m619 It does look exactly like a Stagi. I would also guess it is simply a re-brand. This one is $392 plus shipping here in the States. Probably wouldn't be bad for a beginner. 11 folds is probably counting the in-betweens. I agree the wooden construction is more attractive than the plastic Rochelle, but if you think you may someday trade up to a better instrument, playability should be more important. Thus, the argument for buying from a reputable dealer such as The Button Box.