A concertina is a small, hand-held musical instrument that makes sound when air from its bellows passes over metal reeds inside. You play it by pressing buttons with your fingers while squeezing and pulling the two ends apart. It is popular in folk, traditional, and sea-faring music, and it is light enough to carry almost anywhere.
Buying a concertina can be confusing because the word covers several different instruments that look similar but play very differently. Prices also swing widely, from under one hundred dollars to several thousand. This guide walks through the main types, the features that affect cost, what to check before you buy, and how to keep your instrument in good condition.
What Is a Concertina?
A concertina has three main parts:
- Two end panels (usually hexagonal) that hold the buttons and the internal mechanism.
- A bellows in the middle, made of folded leather, card, or fabric, which pushes air through the instrument.
- Reeds, thin metal tongues that vibrate to produce each note.
When you press a button, it opens a small valve (called a pad) that lets air reach a specific reed. The harder and faster you work the bellows, the louder the note.
The Main Types of Concertina
There are three families of concertina. The type you choose matters more than any other decision, because the finger patterns are not interchangeable.
Anglo Concertina
The Anglo is the most common type in folk music. It is bisonoric, meaning each button gives a different note depending on whether you are pushing or pulling the bellows. Most Anglos have two to three rows of buttons, and each row is set in a different key. A 20-button Anglo covers two keys; a 30-button adds a third row that fills in missing notes and makes more keys playable.
English Concertina
The English concertina is unisonoric: the same button gives the same note whether you push or pull. Buttons are arranged in vertical columns across both ends, and the melody alternates between the left and right hands. It is fully chromatic, which makes it a good choice for readers of standard sheet music.
Duet Concertina
Duet concertinas are also unisonoric, but the layout is different. The left hand generally plays lower accompaniment notes while the right hand plays the melody, similar to how a piano is divided. Duets tend to have a wider range and are favored by players who want to accompany themselves while singing.
What Determines the Price
Two instruments with the same number of buttons can differ enormously in cost. The biggest factors are:
- Reed quality. Entry-level instruments use accordion-style reeds. Higher-end instruments use traditional concertina reeds, which respond faster, sound clearer, and cost far more to make.
- Bellows construction. Leather bellows with more folds outlast cheap card-and-paper bellows and give smoother control.
- Action mechanism. Hand-made instruments use riveted levers and tight tolerances; mass-produced ones use simpler linkages that can feel slower or noisier.
- End material. Wooden or metal ends cost more than plastic or composite ends.
- Number of buttons. More buttons mean more reeds, more labour, and a heavier instrument.
- Craftsmanship. Hand-built instruments take weeks to produce; factory models are made in far less time.
Typical Price Ranges
Exact prices vary by market, condition, and maker, but these bands are a useful starting point.
Entry Level — Roughly $150 to $500
These are usually mass-produced instruments with accordion-style reeds. They are fine for testing whether you enjoy the instrument, but they can be stiff, uneven in tone, and harder to keep in tune.
Mid Range — Roughly $500 to $1,500
This is the sweet spot for serious beginners. You get better reeds, a smoother action, and a bellows that responds well. Many of these instruments hold their value reasonably well if you decide to upgrade later.
Upper Range — Roughly $1,500 to $4,000
Instruments in this band often feature traditional reeds, quality bellows, and careful finishing. They are suitable for regular performance and long practice sessions.
Professional and Vintage — $4,000 and Up
Hand-built and restored antique instruments sit here. They offer the fastest response and richest tone, but they may need occasional professional servicing.
New or Used?
Both are reasonable options, depending on your budget and comfort level.
- New: comes with a warranty, no hidden wear, and usually consistent tuning.
- Used: often better value, and older instruments can sound warmer — but you must inspect them carefully or buy from a seller who offers returns.
What to Check on a Used Concertina
If you can handle the instrument before buying, work through this checklist:
- Bellows leaks. Hold the instrument with the buttons closed, squeeze gently, and listen. Air should not escape steadily.
- Reed condition. Notes should sound clear and quick. Buzzing, rattling, or a weak note suggests a reed problem.
- Tuning. Play each button against a tuner if you can. Widespread tuning drift means an expensive service is due.
- Button action. Buttons should return smoothly and quietly. Sticking or clacking buttons point to worn linkage.
- Ends and frame. Look for cracks, warping, or repairs. Small cracks matter less in the frame than in the reed pan.
- Smell and appearance. A musty smell can mean damp storage, and rust on reeds or springs is a warning sign.
Essential Accessories
- A hard case to protect the bellows and buttons in transit.
- Hand straps or thumb straps, depending on the type you play, for secure control.
- A tutor book or online course matched to your concertina type.
- A tuner or tuning app for checking pitch at home.
- A soft cloth and small brush for routine cleaning.
How to Care for a Concertina
With basic care, a good concertina can last decades. The three biggest enemies are moisture, extreme temperatures, and dust.
Temperature and Humidity
Keep the instrument in a stable environment. Avoid cars, attics, basements, and anywhere near radiators or windows. A relative humidity around 40 to 60 percent is ideal. Sudden dryness can crack wooden parts, while damp air can rust reeds and warp the bellows.
Storage
Store the concertina in its case with the straps loosened. Do not stack heavy objects on top, and do not leave the bellows compressed for long periods. If you plan to store it for months, take it out occasionally and work the bellows gently to keep everything supple.
Playing Habits
Wash and dry your hands before playing. Work the bellows smoothly rather than yanking them. Never force a stuck button, and avoid pressing buttons while the instrument is closed and packed away.
Cleaning
Wipe the ends with a dry or barely damp cloth. Use a soft brush to remove dust from around the buttons. Do not use water, polish, or solvents on the wood, and never open the instrument yourself unless you are experienced — the reeds are delicate and easily bent.
Tuning and Repairs
Reed tuning is a specialist job. If notes sound off, uneven, or slow to speak, take the instrument to a qualified repairer rather than adjusting anything yourself. Most players need a check-up only every few years.
Choosing Your First Concertina
- Pick a type first. Anglo, English, or Duet will shape everything you learn.
- Decide your button count. A 30-button Anglo or a 48-button English gives room to grow.
- Set a realistic budget and include the cost of a case and learning materials.
- Listen to recordings of each type to find the sound you prefer.
- Buy from a seller with a return policy, especially if you are buying used or online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a concertina hard to learn? It is comparable to other small instruments. The Anglo is often considered the quickest to pick up because you can start with simple two-key tunes, while the English and Duet reward patience with a wider range.
How long does a concertina last? A well-made instrument that is stored properly and serviced occasionally can last a lifetime or more.
Can I teach myself? Yes. Tutor books and video lessons exist for every type, though a few introductory lessons with a teacher can prevent habits that are hard to break later.
Final Thoughts
Buying a concertina comes down to three decisions: which type suits the music you want to play, how many buttons you need, and how much you are willing to spend on reed and bellows quality. Choose the type first, aim for the best mid-range instrument your budget allows, and inspect any used option carefully before committing.
Once you own one, simple habits — stable humidity, careful storage, clean hands, and occasional professional servicing — will keep it playing well for years. If you would like more practical guidance on instruments, hobbies, and everyday how-tos, explore the other guides on this site for clear, step-by-step answers.