We hear people speak about the excessive weight of their accordions. It seems that as accordionists mature, the weight issue becomes an increasingly important factor in their purchase decision. The "Myth" is that a lighter accordion is the only answer to solving their problem.

First we must explore the facts. Consider this: when an accordion is played while sitting down (which 95% of accordionists do), most of the accordion's weight is supported by the thighs. Using the efficiency of an upright sitting position along with properly fitted straps and back strap this can alleviate the strain on the neck, shoulders and spine.

Another thing to consider when comparing accordions of equal size (i.e. 19.5" - 18" - 17" keyboard) with the same number of playing notes and sets of reeds, the actual difference is not more than 2-3 pounds. The only physical way to reduce any substantial weight is by eliminating the capability of the instrument itself. Removing either the not range from 41 keys to (i.e. 37, 34 keys) and or having 2 or 3 sets of reeds rather than 4 sets. This makes for a smaller, more compact accordion. By doing this you reduce the weight and ability of the accordion without sacrificing quality.

Comparing the scale weight of an accordion is insignificant when compared with the balance, compression (how much air the accordion uses) and the physical size and overall handling of the accordion. For example when you take a ten pound dumbbell weight and hold it next to your stomach the weight is ten pounds, but when you hold it out in front of you with outstretched arms it feels like twenty pounds. We know this as leverage. Therefore you should try an accordion on for its size and balance. After checking for the size and balance the next true test is how long a period of time you are able to play the instrument without tiring. You will find that a lighter unbalanced accordion will use more energy to play than its higher quality counterpart. Since you don't pick up the accordion to play for only 5 minutes, what does scale weight tell you? Nothing of importance.

The subject of weight of an accordion was never significant until many of the factories started producing less expensive accordions. By modifying design to save labor and material costs they advertised them as being lighter and better. But in reality they are merely substituting the word lighter for cheaper.

However, there are always exceptions. There are still a few companies who refuse to sacrifice quality of design, materials and workmanship in order to produce a less expensive (lighter) accordion. These companies have the interest of their customers health and longevity in mind by continuing to give them value and quality.

Just remember there is no substitution for quality of tone, feeling and response which are all given up in an inexpensive accordion.

Petosa Accordions is a company that refuses to sacrifice quality of design, materials and workmanship in order to produce a less expensive (lighter) accordion. The foremost thing in our mind is to continue giving the customer the best value possible by considering quality, longevity and well being.

We hope after digesting this information that you will agree, "LIGHTER" is MYTHICAL not "FACTUAL". A "QUALITY" accordion is paramount in transcending the playability and enjoyment the player receives from a well crafted instrument.