help with a concertina I just recieed

[Joe T]

I just received a concertina from my daughter-in-law that is probably 30 years old. It is said to be Italian but the buttons don't stand up. The problem is the leather collars on the buttons re dry rotted. Can this be fixed. What kind of concerftina is this--I know it's an anglo but is it toy or a serious instrument in need of repair. any commenta will help.

 

Joe T

 

 

 

 

[Daniel Hersh]

I just received a concertina from my daughter-in-law that is probably 30 years old. It is said to be Italian but the buttons don't stand up. The problem is the leather collars on the buttons re dry rotted. Can this be fixed. What kind of concerftina is this--I know it's an anglo but is it toy or a serious instrument in need of repair. any commenta will help.

It looks like a Bastari or Stagi. They're decent starter instruments. This model usually sells for $200-$300 in good used condition. The collars are made of rubber tubing and can be replaced fairly easily - I've done it myself. Model airplane fuel line tubing is usually recommend. You'll find instructions here under "Replacing the Button Sleeves".

[Joe T]

Thanks a lot but it seems Aerotrend may have gone out of business. Their website is gone but I was able to order a similar silicon tube from Western Hobbies in Illinois. I think I can replace the rubber collars and reassemble the concertina. It is probably thirty years old and that may mean the quality control was much better then and it should be a nice instrument to learn on. The prices of quality new instruments today is out of my range. I really would like to learn a few Irish tunes and learn how to play chords. I play violin, ukulele, and autoharp and don't have time to become proficient on a high level with the concertina. It took three years to learn to play chords on the uke. Some times I play in the French Quarter here in New Orleans. Usually on the fiddle but a few Irish tunes on the concertina could go a long way with the tourists. I will let you know how this comes in a week or two.

 

Joe T