Playing Chemnitzer with Back Issues?

[Keely]

Hi everyone! After having to give up playing the accordion because of my three herniated discs, I've decided that I'd really like to get a Chemnitzer. However, I still have some concerns about whether or not it might exacerbate my disc problems. I know that a Chemnitzer is supported on your lap, with no back straps involved (which really did a number on my discs!), but since it's bisonoric, I know that playing will involve a lot of shoulder strength (and of course, upper back movement as well).

 

Do any of you know anyone who has disc or back issues and still plays Chemnitzer, or is this something I should be wary of? I know that English, Anglo and Duet concertinas are all an option, but I would really miss the lush accordion sound, and I've set my heart on a 52-button Chemnitzer. But before I buy one and start this journey, I need to resolve these worries about my chronic back and disc issues.

 

I posted a similar question on the World Concertina Congress FB page, but back then, I was thinking of getting a Duet concertina. Now, I'm really committed to a Chemnitzer--but only if it won't make my discs worse!

 

Any advice will be greatly appreciated!

[wunks]

There's a nice looking 52 button Chemnitzer with a concertina shape on Facebook marketplace that looks a bit more compact than the square ones.  

Bella Vista AR.  USA.

Edited January 9 by wunks
more info

[wschruba]

I have a 52 button Chemnitzer that I picked up to work on post back surgery [2x microdiscectomy] while I was out of commission for a few months (not an easy recovery or surgery for me, but that was complicated by what we now know is rheumatoid arthritis).  Even being smaller than a small piano accordion, it was significantly heavy to the point that I needed to be careful picking it up/moving it around.

 

I do not know your specifics of your injuries, but I couldn't see that being possible for me--while I was not experiencing any "red flag" moments, I was in extreme pain (constant 6, spikes to 8 or 9).  At that point, I was extremely limited in my activities, and even singing was becoming difficult on a daily basis.

 

For what it's worth, many Chemnitzer/Bandoneon have loops for attaching a harness for extra support.  I have a W40 Stagi Anglo-style concertina--which while it is not a great analogue for traditional concertina sound--splits the difference, in my opinion.  It misses the great rattle-y bass that an Alte Concertina has, but is close enough that you may be able to satisfy your itch with a much lighter instrument.  So, perhaps keep your eyes open for a nice hybrid-style 40+ button Anglo.

[Ken_Coles]

Where are you located? In parts of the US like Minnesota and Wisconsin they are common enough you could probably find a couple of folks who would let you handle theirs for yourself. Nothing like trying it out.

 

Ken

[Roger Hare]

There is (or was) a smaller Chemnitzer produced. From memory, it's not that much larger than a fairly standard concertina. I think it's a Karpek Carousel (or Karousel?). I did find some pictures of this beast a while ago, but can't find them now...🙁

 

 

Edited January 10 by Roger Hare