The accordion is a unique instrument. If you play the button, chromatic, or piano keyboard style accordion – the biggest asset it the basses – which at first sight looks intimidating – but in reality is the simplest part of the instrument.

Start each practice session with a simple Bass-chord, Bass-chord pattern – then move up one bass  – then move down one bass. Now add at least 1 note – preferably the 3 note chord in the right hand that matches. CM – CEG, GM – GBD, FM – FAC. Play the right hand chord only when you play the chord in the left hand.

Learning to move between basses, learning to add the right hand chord – will help with counting, accompanying other musicians, and allow you to play along – even when you don’t know the tune being played.

Now – pick a simple tune like Jingle Bells, Jambalaya, Deep in the Heart of Texas, or Amazing Grace and play chords only.