Concertina Backstory

[Stephen DOUGLASS]

A couple of years ago I picked up a 48 key Aeloa style Crabb concertina at an online auction. Risky, I know but it 'looked' lovely. On arrival it was pristine, but certainly needed some love. I cleaned all the reeds and then sent to Bob Snope for some professional help. The result was 'quite lovely' and is my 'go to' now. But what intrigued me was a label on the inside of the box, with the previous owners name and address. I couldn't help researching, and ended up 'down the rabbit hole'. The story that emerged was compelling, if not draped in pathos. The previous owner had passed away, (as we all do eventually), but he had spent many years in China as a missionary with his wife, where they seemingly 'lost' their children during the war years. Yet they diligently spent many more years there, using music to 'preach the word', finally returning to Maine to retire in the late 70's.  I am in no way religious, but the story that unfolded added a rich seasoning to the concertina. Not that it spent time in China during the war years, but was a testimony to the owner/s adventurous and tenacious spirit. I have a few other concertina's, and it would also be nice to know their history 'through the hands'. I'm sure most have a fascinating story to tell, if only they could. I was just wondering if anyone had found something in their 'box' that allowed their concertina to 'speak'. I actually can't bring myself to replace the previous owners label.

[Stephen Chambers]

This was a good one: Rock Chidley Baritone

[David Barnert]

I recently heard a Cello & Piano recital, a husband and wife team, who played the 5 Beethoven Cello Sonatas in one performance. The cellist (the husband) had just acquired the 200+ year old cello (Beethoven’s dates are 1770-1827), and when he finished playing, he said “I wonder how many Beethoven cycles this instrument has played.” 

[Stephen Chambers]

Or another concertina-related one: Alf Edwards' Concertina Sold On Ebay