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Posted

I've recently become interested in learning the concertina, but the expense and details are somewhat intimidating. I basically just want a simple concertina to learn and be able to play some irish jigs and sea chanties. So far I've seen a Hohner online for $175 from Harmonicas & Stuff, or I live close enough that I could visit the House of Musical Traditions, where they have Stagi for $342. There were also a few options on ebay, but I'm hesitant to use that. From what I've read I feel I want a 20 button, C/G tuned, Anglo model, but I would appreciate some straightforward, unbiased opinions of more experienced players. Thanks.

Posted

If you go to HMT, ask to talk to Wendy Morrison. She knows her stuff, and can talk you through the alternatives. If at all possible, don't make your mind up between the different types of concertina without trying them first. So much is down to personal reaction to a system that, really, no-one can tell you what is best for you (though we'll all try!).

 

Best of luck,

 

Chris

Posted

Pirate, I understand the dilemma. Is there a place near you where you could rent a concertina for awhile? That's what I did- a 3-month rental from the Button Box convinced me that I loved the instrument, but needed a serious upgrade from the Stagi! Right now I'm trying out a Marcus from the Button Box on perusal, and it's strikingly different. I've been saving my pennies for these 3 months, and between savings and my as-yet-to-be-received IRS refund, I think I'm getting a deal!

 

I don't know if you can rent long-distance from the Button Box, but I don't see why not. There are links to them all over this site- check them out!

 

Good luck on this new venture- it's one of the best things I've ever done!

 

Allison

Posted (edited)

OK, Allison re: your new Avatar

 

I've been to the Brattleboro area every other year for about 12 years. I've found pesto-stuffed pretzels and fine optical filters, but I can't believe you found a chocolate bunny playing concertina. The details, please. I know people who desperately need one of these.

 

a digression, to be sure.

Edited by Stephen Mills
Posted (edited)

Stephen,

 

I'm pretty sure this is a traditional chocolate mold shape. FYI, a few years ago I was in England just before Easter and found a chocolate bunny playing a square concertina (or bandonion) at the Harrod's shop in Heathrow airport. I brought it home for Barbara, who studies the evolution of Theobroma (the tree from which we get chocolate), but has much less interest in concertinas!

 

Paul

Edited by Paul Groff
Posted

No fair Alan, I asked first. You're gonna take a BIG bite and none will be left for me. Oh and Allison.

 

Helen

Posted

Well I can't eat the concertina, that would be sacrilege. I'll eat the head, hee hee. Off with her, his, its head.

 

How apt is your little signature saying!

Posted (edited)

Oh OK ladies first,

I will just chew the head off a jelly baby and sulk.

 

Al

You just beat me to the head Helen by four minutes,

I must type faster.

Edited by Alan Day
Posted

Helen, I was once co-leader of what was probably the wildest 4H club in history! My signature was our motto. I won't tell you about the Secret Leader's Uniform, at least not on a public forum.

Someday I may tell about how we "assisted" my daughter's prize ram lamb the night before the big show at the fair(let's just say Guinness was involved...) ;)

 

Allison

Posted

Hey, you guys are just jealous.

 

Allison, I'll expect a private email telling me all the goodies.

 

Helen

Posted
Looking at the appetite of Helen... I have changed my avatar  :lol:  :lol:

Henk, since you've changed your avatar yet again, that statement takes on a completely different meaning!

(Now if I could only figure out what it is. :unsure: )

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