Frequently Asked Questions | Accordion Workshop

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I require repairs or tuning for an upcoming performance. How soon can you complete the repairs?

The usual turnaround time is one to two weeks for small jobs and up to a month for big jobs. Time frames can be longer if I have to source parts. I generally don't work to a strict time frame as sometimes repairs can take longer than expected and the workshop can be very busy. There can also be a lead time before your accordion is able to be inspected/repaired. Make sure you allow plenty of time to ensure your accordion can be completed in time for your performance. Please note that I do not do on the spot/emergency repairs.

Can you recommend an accordion teacher?

I recommend checking the Accordion Society of Australia website for available teachers in your area.

https://accordionsaustralia.com/

I have a very old antique accordion. Is it possible to have it restored so I can play it frequently and perform?

It is possible to restore very old antique accordions. Even accordions over 100 years old can be restored to a playable condition; however, there should be an awareness that accordions over 75 years old have very old components and very often significant wear and tear. This should be taken into consideration when purchasing an accordion with the plan to restore it for frequent use. For such accordions there will most likely be a need for ongoing repairs.

I generally divide accordions into three age categories: Modern 1978 until now, Vintage 1946 until 1977, and Antique which are accordions made during or before World War 2 (before 1946).

I have an accordion I would like to sell (or buy). Can you complete an assessment and evaluation?

I don't do evaluations. It's worth noting that older accordions don't generally hold their value with age. Unfortunately there are not many collectors of antique accordions. Part of the reason for this is that very old accordions usually have worn and corroded components and cost a lot to restore to a playable condition. Even after being restored the aged components require more servicing than newer accordions. For this reason they are usually not worth much to accordionists. Another reason for this is that there are a lot less players today then there were back in the 1950s and 1960s, so there are more accordions in circulation than people who can play them, which brings down the price of vintage instruments.

Can you explain what's involved in quoting the repair job for my accordion?

Repair quotes are generally based on the amount of time it takes to complete a job. For example, overhauling a three reed piano accordion can take more than twenty hours of concentrated continuous work. Such large jobs often require re-waxing, tuning and re-valving and various other repairs that can come up such as replacing bellow seals or resetting keyboards. If you consider twenty hours in regard to a reasonable hourly rate, and then add parts on top, you will be able to see why the cost of accordion repairs can add up. However, this cost should be weighed against the cost of a new Italian or German made accordion. For example, brand new full-sized Italian made accordions start in the range of $8000 Australian dollars and in many cases such new accordions sell for tens of thousands of dollars. It should also be noted that vintage accordions were at least this expensive in terms of actual value when they were sold new back in 1950s and 1960s.

One customer once told me his Scandalli piano accordion cost him four months wages back in 1963.

A funny thing another customer said to me is that the cost of a new good quality accordion is more than the cost of a new motorbike.

With these points in mind you might be able to see that the skills required to repair accordions are more in line with the skills required to fix a complex and complicated machine rather than a simple musical instrument.

Can you help me find a specific part for my vintage accordion?

The Accordion Workshop has a large collection of rare accordion parts for many vintage and rare accordion models.

Can you tune or repair my piano?

I only work on accordions, including: chromatic accordions, piano accordions and melodeons (diatonic accordions). Accordions are free reed instruments, meaning that the way the instrument produces music is by air passing through reeds, which is completely different from a piano which produces a note by a hammer striking a string and resonating through the soundboard.

I am looking to buy a used accordion. Can you give me any advice?

I generally recommend buying Italian and German made accordions. I am reluctant to recommend a particular manufacturer as there can be a lot of variation between models and different eras.
Below are some things to consider.
*How old is the accordion? (older accordions can have more wear and tear)
*Is the accordion in tune?
*Do the bellows smell of mould?

*Can you see any rust or corrosion on the external metal parts of the accordion? (If there is rust on the outside there will most likely be rust on the reeds)
*Are the bellows tight?
*Is the keyboard noisy when pressing the keys without playing?
*Are there any crackling, fluttering or popping sounds when playing?
*Are the bass buttons even?
*Do any keys or buttons get stuck down?
*Is the accordion in a good cosmetic condition?

Most of these issues can be repaired but the goal should be to minimise the amount spent on repairs. It's best to shop around until you find a good accordion at a decent price.

Do you give a warranty/guarantee for work completed?

Yes, in the very unlikely event of an issue arising I give a one year workshop warranty on the repairs which are listed on the initial quote.

I will repair any issues arising as soon as possible for one year from the date listed on the invoice/receipt.

Do you know where I can meet other accordionists?

I recommend joining The Accordion Society of Australia if you are interested in meeting other people who share your passion for the accordion. The society hosts regular meetups, jam sessions and social events.