Starting with a full size model?

[Jazzy]

Hi, I’m Jasmine from SF east bay.
I’ve always been interested in learning the accordion due to my German heritage and since I play the piano. I suddenly have the opportunity to buy a full size 19.5” Arpeggio at a really low price ($500) but am worried it will be too hard to learn on such a big instrument. I am not a small lady - 5’9 - but I don’t have a ton of arm strength.
Assuming it turns out to be in good shape, would you recommend against it based on size for a beginner?

 

[jozz]

if it fits the body it should be okay

at 10 years old I didn't have a ton of arm strength either, still played 120 basses daily

 

[Pipemajor]

Hi Jazzy and welcome
If you play sitting down, the weight isn't too important as you rest the accordion on you lap.
I've never found a full size accordion bellows to be harder than a smaller one. In fact I've found them to be easier as you don't have to change direction so often. I'd say also, if it feels comfortable, go for it.

 

[debra]

The correct "fit" of an accordion (for your upper body) is very important. For that reason an adult like you is better off starting with a full size accordion than with a smaller one that doesn't fit properly and may cause you to give up because it's just not comfortable.
Go for it! And enjoy!

 

[JerryPH]

I was just past 13 years old and played in an orchestra of accordionists with a 35 pound beast of a Hohner Morino 185 bass 5/5 accordion. Barring any physical conditions on your end and accordion condition(s), there is no reason you cannot or should not... start with a full sized accordion. As mentioned, there is also very little reason to play standing, so play sitting down, using good posture and all should be good.

 

[Scuromondo]

Hi, I’m Jasmine from SF east bay.
I’ve always been interested in learning the accordion due to my German heritage and since I play the piano. I suddenly have the opportunity to buy a full size 19.5” Arpeggio at a really low price ($500) but am worried it will be too hard to learn on such a big instrument. I am not a small lady - 5’9 - but I don’t have a ton of arm strength.
Assuming it turns out to be in good shape, would you recommend against it based on size for a beginner?

Do you have contact with anyone who has experience with accordions? It is very important that you adjust all straps correctly for your build, and that you position the weight of the accordion properly on your lap. Also, it would be very good if the accordion has a back strap. You can learn how to this from videos but I think it is much better to interact with someone who can help you. The position of your hand and fingers with respect to the keyboard is also a factor you might want help with; both differ from what you are accustomed to with your piano and will require your attention.

If the accordion is nicely fitted and you understand how to maintain correct posture, a full sized accordion should not be a problem for you

 

[JIM D.]

First of all finding that arpeggio for $500 is a lucky find. It's worth much more. It's fine build will require less effort to
play than a mediocre build model accordion. You should have no problem playing it in a sitting position.