Buying an anglo concertina - what key and layout?

[ChrisLaughlin]

Hey folks,

I'm an experience flute and whistle player preparing to get started on concertina (I also play a bit of B/C button accordion). I've decided to buy one of the R. Morse & Co Ceili Anglo Concertinas from The Button Box. http://www.buttonbox.com/morse-ceili.html

A number of keys and layouts are available. Which should I choose and why? I play almost exclusively Irish trad.

Thanks for your help and apologies if this question has been asked in the past (which I'm nearly certain it has).

Best,
Chris

[Seanie]

Hi Chris

For Irish Trad the best key for the concertina is C/G. 30- Button or more is preferable.

The main difference between the different fingering systems (Jeffries v Wheatstone/Lachenal) is the positioning of the C sharp button. On the Wheatstone/Lachenal (same fingerings) the C Sharp is first button push on the outermost row (row furthest from your body). On Jeffries there is a second C sharp on the second button pull on the outermost row.

Enjoy the music.

John

[ChrisLaughlin]

Thanks very much John. That was exactly the information I needed. Much appreciated!

[ChrisLaughlin]

A brief update - I bought a used R. Morse & Co. Céilí anglo C/G with Jeffries layout. I love it.

Thanks again for the help!

[Azalin]

A brief update - I bought a used R. Morse & Co. Céilí anglo C/G with Jeffries layout. I love it.

Thanks again for the help!

Good for you man! Now you're playing a real instrument

[ChrisLaughlin]

[Fergus]

Hi!

A bit late, but congrats. I own a Morse Ceilí since 4 or 5 years ago, and feel very happy with it. Have to say it has a Jeffries layout, what I think is more useful for ITM than the Wheatstone one, with only one C# on the right side... Of course, has not real concertina reeds, but for the price is more than a worthy instrument

Happy squeezing!

[maki]

Congratulations on the Morse Ceili, it has a great reputation.
I suspect that you already know about the great tuition at OAIM.

A couple of favorite traditional ITM tutors (book & cd), in order of preference.

The Concertina Diaries
http://www.irishtunebook.com/the-concertina-diaries.php

Irish Concertina: A Tutor for the Anglo Concertina in the Irish Style
http://www.amazon.com/Irish-Concertina- ... 189951225X

[ChrisLaughlin]

Thanks Fergus and Maki!

Yes - I'm using the great lessons by Edel Fox at OAIM.ie . Outstanding stuff!