What is a Concertina?

A concertina is a small handheld musical instrument that belongs to the free-reed family, similar to the accordion and harmonica. It has a bellows in the center and buttons on both ends that control the notes. Sound is produced when the player pushes or pulls the bellows while pressing the buttons, causing metal reeds inside the instrument to vibrate.

The concertina is played by holding the instrument between both hands and expanding or compressing the bellows to move air through the reeds. Each button produces a specific note, and in some types of concertinas the note changes depending on whether the bellows are pushed or pulled. This allows musicians to create melodies, harmonies, and rhythmic accompaniment with expressive control.

The instrument became popular in the 19th century and is commonly used in traditional folk music, especially in Irish, English, and maritime musical traditions. Its compact size, distinctive tone, and expressive bellows control make the concertina a valued instrument in folk ensembles and solo performances.