Blow accordion
Maker
André Borel
Date1954-1974 ca.
Place DistributedParis, France, Europe
Place MadeParis, France, Europe
Serial No.626
SignedStamped on sides, in large diamond: ACCORDINA / BTE. S.G.D.G. / A. BORELStamped on one end: Paul Beuscher (script) / 27, BOULEVARD BEAUMARCHAIS PARIS 4E
MarkingsStamped on one end: 626
DescriptionInvented in the late 1930s by André Borel, who was issued a French patent (649226) in 1943 and US patent (2461806) in 1949. It wasn't until the early 1950s (about 1954) that he partnered with the Paul Beuscher, the French music publishing house and instrument distributor, to begin production and distribution. This lasted from about 1954 to the early 1970s. After this time, Borel apparently no longer produced accordinas.
This version features stainless steel reeds and a synthetic wind chest, solving problems linked to condensation. Described as "between an accordion and a harmonica," it is side-blown through a mouthpiece on the side and played by depressing one or more of the 44 buttons which activate the reeds. The sound can be modulated by pressing in the curved front or back sides. Spit valve on bottom end.
DimensionsLength: 11-1/2 in
Width: 3 in
ProvenanceAlan G. Bates Collection, West Grove, Pennsylvania, 2002.
Credit LineAlan G. Bates Collection, 2002
Object number10255
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