How do I learn to play an accordion?

Can I use a childs accordion for use as a beginner?

• I really want to learn how to play the accordion, but I don't want to buy an expensive one until I know how to play it properly. Can I use a child's version of an accordion to practice? If not where can I get a really cheap accordion £20-40 pounds? Thank you.

• Answer:

  It's not advisable: they're very limited. Also, the instruments marketed as children's accordions are actually melodeons - ones where squeeze and draw play different notes. That's one route to take, but it's not for everyone; presumably you're thinking of piano accordion? The usual advice is to start with a 48-bass accordion - but it's very easy to suggest overspend to other people. You could consider a 12-bass - they're typically £200 or so secondhand on eBay. A lot of folk players find them OK; the few bass chords are enough for the keys most folkdance tunes are played in. But I'd go for a 24-bass - it's what I started on - which has a good range. There are plenty of "Rossini" brand ones for £250 or so on eBay. Sorry, but £20-£40 is pretty unfeasible.