First Concertina wanted.

[Al.]

Before I go and spend my money on a new Rochelle or Jackie I was wondering what I could find second hand. If anyone in the UK is selling a Concertina (my budget is 500 pounds) could they please let me know.  Playability is more important than cosmetics and it will need to have a C# for session playing (if I get that good).   I am open to the idea of Anglo or English systems.  There may be a delay of a couple of weeks before making a decision as I want to see what I can find.   Thanks.

 

Alan.

[Parker135]

If by session, you mean Irish Traditional Music, you would probably be better off with an Anglo, not to say that Irish music can't be played in other systems.  You'll have a much easier time finding instruction and other resources with an Anglo if your focus is Irish music.  Good luck in your search. The fun begins!

[Roger Hare]

18 hours ago, Al. said:

...I was wondering what I could find second hand...it will need to have a C# for session playing (if I get that good).  I am open to the idea of Anglo or English systems (my emphasis)

This seems to be a follow-on from the discussion here about the relative merits of going for a Rochelle vs. a 'vintage' instrument? I don't know that you'll get dramatically different answers now.

 

Going down the 'vintage' route, talk to a reputable dealer, (eg: Barleycorn, The Box Place) and describe your needs. It may be a bit of a squeeze (pun intended) meeting your budget of £500, and you may find yourself limited to a 20-button instrument, but it's worth a try? I've bought Anglos from both those dealers (one expensive instrument, one cheap), and been happy in both cases.

 

I can't comment on the English system - I'm an Anglo-er only...

________________________________

It's not what you asked about, but as far as the music is concerned, there's any amount of material out there from all traditions. Two books spring to mind straight away - 'There Was None Of This Lazy Dancing' (Bob Ellis - may be out of print?), and 'The Winders Of Wyresdale' (Andy Hornby). I mention those two specifically because they are oriented towards the music of the North of England, and I see you are in Northallerton so they may be 'tempting'...

Edited May 28 by Roger Hare

[Al.]

Not so much interested in the merits now but looking to see what is for sale.   I am open to both English or Anglo system, new or vintage.    Just looking for the most "bang for my buck" really.😁

Edited May 28 by Al.

[Roger Hare]

2 hours ago, Al. said:

Not so much interested in the merits now but looking to see what is for sale.   I am open to both English or Anglo system, new or vintage.    Just looking for the most "bang for my buck" really.😁

Ah! I did have a quick look at both Barleycorn and The Box Place, and couldn't see a G/D (which may be your 'best' option?) for sale within your budget on either site. It might take a little while before something pops out of the woodwork - which is a pain. That's why I suggested talking to them direct - one or other of them might have a suitable instrument which simply isn't on the web-site (Barleycorn have hundreds of 'tinas in their warehouse...).

 

Give it a go - one or other of them may have exactly what you want/need sitting on a shelf, gathering dust...

Edited May 28 by Roger Hare

[Al.]

I spoke to Barleycorn a few months back and AC Norman earlier this week, neither were able to help with a C# instrument in my range.  I noticed though that Barleycorn has a 20 button Lachenal in stock with cosmetic damage to the ends for 425, if I see nothing in the next couple of weeks I may ask about the cost of modifying it with a C#.   There was a 24 button Lachenal on here some months back which would have been ideal, otherwise I may keep my eyes open for a used Rochelle 2 and let someone else take the hit of buying new.  One of those should help me fulfill my ambition to become the next Peter Bellamy. 

[Parker135]

People trade their Rochelle and Rochelle 2 instruments back to Concertina Connection when they upgrade.  You might check to see if they have any deals on used ones, although shipping costs might put them out of reach.

[jkmelb]

A 22 or 24 button C/G anglo instrument might be what you need. It is basically a 20 button concertina with some additional sharps/flats and should include a C#. A seller should be able to tell you the exact notes of these buttons. You don't have to buy a more expensive 30 button instrument.

 

Barleycorn has one for sale, though it is above your budget. But others might come available...

https://concertina.co.uk/stock-selection/anglo-concertinas/lachenal-24-key-c-g-8703/

[Roger Hare]

Deleted - on 2nd thoughts, it wasn't really relevant.

Edited May 29 by Roger Hare

[Daniel Hersh]

6 hours ago, jkmelb said:

A 22 or 24 button C/G anglo instrument might be what you need. It is basically a 20 button concertina with some additional sharps/flats and should include a C#. A seller should be able to tell you the exact notes of these buttons. You don't have to buy a more expensive 30 button instrument.

 

Barleycorn has one for sale, though it is above your budget. But others might come available...

https://concertina.co.uk/stock-selection/anglo-concertinas/lachenal-24-key-c-g-8703/

Another possibility (and closer to your price range) would be this May Fair from Barleycorn: https://concertina.co.uk/stock-selection/anglo-concertinas/wheatstone-mayfair-30-key-in-c-g-8742/

[Johanna]

6 hours ago, Daniel Hersh said:

Another possibility (and closer to your price range) would be this May Fair from Barleycorn: https://concertina.co.uk/stock-selection/anglo-concertinas/wheatstone-mayfair-30-key-in-c-g-8742/

Note, though, that according to the listing, the Mayfair is not in concert pitch, so that's not going to work for playing in sessions (unless you can somehow get everyone else to retune to match you).

[Peter Smith]

PM sent re 24-button anglo, in case you might be interested. 

Peter

[Al.]

Thanks to those who replied to me.   I have now got myself a Jack Baritone English concertina so am sorted.  I will see you all in the teaching and learning forum.