June is officially recognized as National Accordion Awareness Month in the United States. It was established in 1989 to promote awareness of the accordion, encourage people to learn about the instrument, and celebrate its contributions to many musical traditions.

The month is dedicated to appreciating the accordion’s rich heritage, which goes beyond just being a staple in folk and polka music to include its use in classical, jazz, rock, and even pop music.

This celebration encourages musicians and the public alike to explore the accordion’s potential and integrate it into modern musical compositions.

The oldest name for the accordion is derived from the Greek word ‘harmonikos’, which means ‘harmonic’ or ‘musical’. It goes by many names across the world — ‘Akkordeon’ in Germany, ‘Fiarmonica’ in Italy, ‘Bayan’ in Russia, ‘Sun-Fin-Chin’ in China, ‘Harmonium’ in Pakistan, and ‘Trekspill’ in Norway. But it is commonly just called ‘accordion’ in many countries.

How can you celebrate Accordion Awareness Month?

1. Buy an accordion
What better way to honor this instrument than to permanently bring one into your life? Research the best and most affordable accordions and grab one for yourself. Worried about the space it might take? Got no time to learn this instrument? Do a good deed and give it to someone who appreciates music, or donate it to your local music class. Send a little music out into the world.

2. Take accordion lessons
This instrument is not only beautiful to hear but to play, too. Multiple instructors offer quick lessons online including on YouTube. Master the basics with enough practice and maybe you will soon put out your own concerts featuring famous songs played on an accordion.

3. Support accordion players
Playing this instrument requires skilled dexterity and talent that takes a lot of hard work to master. Honor those who have put in the work, check out some local players, attend their programs or watch them play online. Share your discovery with the world and help spread awareness about the accordion and its musicians.

4. Learn about the accordion by reading www.accordionusa.news This monthly free publication is a wealth of information about the accordion, concerts, festivals, competitions, events which feature and include the accordion. You will be amazed by the versatility of the accordion and the many types of music that can be played on it. Watch videos, attend live concerts,join zoom events, and educate yourself about the accordion.