Anglo vs English Concertina: Understanding the Intricacies
The Anglo and English Concertinas differ mainly in how they produce notes and the types of music they're best suited for.
Hello and welcome to a close look at the Anglo and English Concertinas where we show their true forms. This text aims to clear up their quirks and roles in different music styles. You can be sure that by the end you will know the small changes and will like these fine members of the squeezebox family more.
The Anglo and English Concertinas differ mostly in how they make notes and what music suits them. English Concertinas make the same note on both push and pull which English Folk Music players prefer while Anglo Concertinas make different notes on push and pull which Irish Music players prefer. Charles Wheatstone first made them in 1829 and they are still liked.
There is a lot more to say about Anglo and English Concertinas too. Get ready to learn about the past and different styles plus playing ways of these much loved musical tools.
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Introduction
The concertina is small and often missed but holds a special spot among musical tools. An English man named Charles Wheatstone made this item in 1829 which put it in the history books.
It is cool that the basic design and way to play the concertina stays the same even after almost two hundred years. This lasting quality proves why people still like it. The concertina is part of the squeezebox family and found its first group of friends among sailors in the 1800s. The small size and light weight made it a great pal for sailors on long trips as it was easy to store.
The concertina is still liked by folk players today as it helps songs and shanties with its sound which nods to its old sea use. People know the tool is flexible since it works well for solo tunes or song backing and dance tracks. If you pick the Anglo or English or the rare Duet type then each one offers a special sound for many music kinds.
Types of Concertinas
Anglo Concertina
The Anglo Concertina is a key type that stands out because it changes tones when you move the bellows as it makes separate notes for push and pull moves. This two sound quality gives it a lively and active voice that adds to its draw.
You will find two main Anglo Concertina models which are the 20 button and the 30 button. The 20 button model covers fewer octaves than the 30 button one but it is still a great choice for new players who want to start in the concertina field and learn its special parts.
The G/C tuned Anglo Concertina needs a mention as players use it often for old Irish music. With the 30 button setup this tuned concertina gives a lovely harmony that truly captures the spirit of Irish tunes.
For a more thorough history on this instrument, check out the book "The Anglo-German Concertina". By clicking this link, you'll be directed to its page on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Zxvent
English Concertina
The English Concertina is not like the Anglo because it makes the same note if the bellows go in or out. This one sound feature gives a nice smooth feel to the music it makes so melodies flow well.
You can get this in 30 button and 48 button models to fit different styles and skill levels. The English Concertina is chromatic and can play all the half step changes in a song just like a big piano. This skill makes it very flexible so it can change to any key with ease.
People who love English Folk Music really like the English Concertina a lot. Its sweet and smooth flow lifts the genre and plays old tunes well. Also some brave players have used the English Concertina to play Irish music which shows its ability in a fresh way.
For those interested in learning how to play the English Concertina, The English Concertina Absolute Beginners by Dave Mallinson is a good resource. By clicking this link, you will be directed to its page on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZH9hmf
Duet Concertina
The Duet Concertina is the least seen member of the group and is hard to find. Even if it is rare this item has its own special draw.
This text focuses mainly on comparing Anglo and English Concertinas but the special traits of the Duet Concertina need a mention. When we add it to the chat we give a better view of the whole concertina topic.
The Duet Concertina is special in its build unlike the Anglo and English versions. It sets keys for the right and left hands so they can make sounds apart or together. This means you can play different sounds for melody and harmony at the same time which gives the Duet its name.
The main goal of the Duet Concertina is to make complex songs easier to play. It acts like a real duet because it makes two matching tunes at once to set a nice music mood.
The Duet Concertina attracts a specific group of players who find it interesting and worth their time. Its odd qualities give a fun choice for people looking for new music tests. It is hard to find but the Duet keeps a loyal group of users who test it and see its worth.
Comparison and Recommended Uses for English and Anglo Concertinas
Several main points help players pick the right tool between English and Anglo concertinas. We look at their differences and uses to see how their traits lead to different creative paths.
The English concertina makes the same note no matter if you push or pull the bellows. The Anglo concertina is different because each key makes two different notes with one for push and one for pull. The Anglo has more notes at hand so it is great for fancy tunes.
Both concertinas handle keys in different ways aside from their note systems. The English system works for all twelve chromatic keys so it changes easily. The Anglo type offers two or three main keys like G and C or sometimes A minor so it fits styles with set key needs.
These facts show why Anglo concertinas are liked in Irish music where fast and fancy tunes are the norm. On the other hand English folk music lovers like the English concertina for its one sound style which makes the music sound smooth.
Each concertina type has its own hard parts and good points in the end. Players must pick based on what they want to create and what songs they love to play.
If you would like to be more familiar with the sound of the Anglo concertina, the Celtic music trio Talisk features the instrument in all their tunes in a modern fashion. By clicking this link, you will be directed to their album titled "Beyond": on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47Icxja
Final Thoughts
To start playing the concertina you must pick the type that fits your sound. The traits of the English and Anglo plus the Duet systems can help you choose and lead to a good learning time.
After you pick the best concertina there are many aids to help you get good at it. You can find full guides and online lessons or videos and tips from teachers to help you learn better.
When you get to know the concertina you join a lively group of players. This link to other people gives chances to learn and make friends. You can swap tips at local clubs or online groups and events like concerts.
To finish up you honor the past of this tool when you pick the right system and use help from others. You also get to show your own musical voice.
For a more thorough introduction to Celtic music, the NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Celtic Music furnishes an A-to-Z glossary of musical terminology, lists of essential CDs, a history of the art form and its profound influence on modern music, and profiles of notable musicians. Find out more through this link on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4gpW5rL
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