News from the Concertina Gallery
In response to increasing interest in these most portable and versatile members of the free reed family, we’re delighted to offer a much wider range of instruments than ever, with concertinas to suit all pockets and ability levels, and both new and used instruments of all types – English, Anglo and Duet.The “Jackie” English concertina starter package, retailing at only £199 and comprising 30 key treble concertina, plus gig bag and comprehensive tutor book was the most innovative breakthrough for years. Now, “Jackie” has been joined by her “big brother”, in the shape of the “JACK”– a real milestone – a responsive, well toned 30 key BARITONE instrument at only £210 – once again, the package also includes a gig bag and tutor book. You can enjoy the depth of the baritone sound, ideal for song accompaniment and part playing, without the four figure outlay of most other instruments. Both JACK and Jackie are growing in popularity in educational settings, from Cornwall to Shetland, and with learners of all ages from 5 upwards.
At The Music Room, we’re delighted to be sole agents for JACK and Jackie, as well as the Morse range of concertinas (the lightest weight concertinas available), – the Albion Treble and Baritone English models, and the Ceili Anglo, (choice of tuning and layout), and the Marcus English concertinas – available in treble and baritone range, with wooden or metal ends. I recently indulged in my very own Marcus Deluxe English – a stunning custom model featuring 7 fold scarlet bellows, (with matching thumbstraps and finger rests), air valve, and D rings, all complemented by shiny metal ends. It’s a joy to play, being very fast and responsive, and visually delightful (although not for the shrinking violets of this world!). Stock models are based on vintage concertina patterns and colours. We also have the exclusive Music Room Special Marcus Anglo, with 30 keys, metal ends, and choice of tuning and fingering.
In addition to our new stock we always carry a wide range of used concertinas, both modern and vintage, by a variety of makers. Visitors are welcome to try out the stock anytime – you never know when you’ll find the instrument of your dreams – earlier this year we sold a lovely Wheatstone Aeola Treble Baritone. The stock changes swiftly, so please keep an eye on our updated webpages, but do phone first if you’re making a special journey from a long distance – and remember, the kettle is always on! We aim to list all our stock – both new and used – on our webpages in due course, and have comprehensive details and photos available on all items.
We offer a full repair, restoration and tuning service, and can provide insurance valuations and quotes too, please ask me for details. We have tuition material, books, CDs, cases, and gig bags, and make custom flight cases to order for special instruments (e.g. vintage baritones, bass models etc). As the Newsletter Editor of “Concertina World” for the ICA, I’m always happy to share my knowledge and enthusiasm…outside the shop you might spot me with The Sheffield City Giants.
Keep on Squeezing! Gill Noppen-Spacie
That’s it for now! time for bed (it’s half past midnight…)
Gill