Anyone familiar with the bandoneon often encounters the magical number: 442. This value represents the frequency in Hertz of the central A that serves as a reference point for tuning all the other notes of the bandoneon. If you’ve ever wondered why this precise value instead of a nearby one like 443 or 441, you’re […]
Walter Porschmann, the forgotten bandoneon virtuoso
The month of March is associated with the bandoneon because on March 11th, 1921, Astor Piazzolla was born. However, in the same month, on March 16th, 18 years earlier, another bandoneon virtuoso was born in Germany. His name was Walter Porschmann, and he was considered one of the greatest virtuosos of this instrument. His story […]
Playing Chords on the Bandoneon with Pivoting
A useful movement strategy to simplify chords’ sequence Welcome to this new article dedicated to the Bandoneon technique. In this article, I’ll talk about pivoting: it’s not really a technique, but a useful strategy to move on the keyboard when you have a sequence of chords where one or more notes are maintained. Unlike other […]
Essencial Bandoneon Technique: Posture and Bellows Control
Building an Effective Fundamental Technique and Injury-Free Practice In this article (and in the video below) I’ll discuss about two fundamental aspects of the bandoneon technique: posture and bellows control. The article unfolds in two parts: the initial part addresses the significance of maintaining proper posture during bandoneon practice, while the latter part focuses on […]
Is it Possible Learning the Bandoneon as an Adult?
3 steps to make it happen! If you’ve ever considered learning the bandoneon as an adult, then this article is tailored just for you. I understand how difficult it may seem, but I want to share information and advice that will make your musical journey more accessible and rewarding. The good news is that many […]
Understanding the Bandoneon: a Guide for Composers
Looking to learn more about the bandoneon and how it can be utilized in composition? Check out our article which delves into the unique history and characteristics of this versatile instrument, as well as offering tips and techniques for composers looking to incorporate it into their work. Discover the beautiful sound and possibilities of the […]
Why study Classical Music with the bandoneon?
Improve tango by studying Bach Although it is inextricably linked to tango, the bandoneon was born in Germany as an instrument for folklore and popular music and over the years it has been played in many contexts. One of these is that of “classical” music. Let’s define classical music The more you study and deepen classical music, […]
Bandoneon Keyboard Showdown: Unisonoric vs. Bisonoric
A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right System Who starts to play the bandoneon has to take a first important choice: bisonoric or unisonoric? These are two different keyboard settings, each with its own pros and cons. The choice of the keyboards’ layout at an early stage does not affect very much the repertoire and the technical possibilities, but the choice of unisonoric can […]
Choosing the Right Chair for Bandoneon Practice
Avoiding Mistakes to Preserve Your Passion While it may seem like a minor detail, choosing the right chair for bandoneon practice is crucial to prevent physical problems, tension, and restrictions during training and performance. Personally, I experienced this importance last year when, due to an incorrect chair choice, I suffered from sciatica that prevented me […]
The Bandoneon’s Range of Notes
The bandoneon captivates with its compact form, concealing a surprising range: in the 33/38 Rheinische Tonlage, the bass side spans from C2 to B4 (3 octaves), while the melody side ranges from A3 to B6 (another 3 octaves). The extensions of both sides slightly overlap, resulting in an impressive total range of nearly 5 octaves. […]