Achi news desk-
A Google Doodle on Thursday celebrated the ‘accordion’, a German musical instrument that was patented on this day in 1829, referring to it as a folk musician’s “main squeeze”. This free instrument with bellows has influenced various genres of music, including pop, jazz, folk and classical.
As highlighted by Google Doodle, the term “accordion” is derived from the German word akkord (chord). Among free reed instruments with bellows, the accordion was developed in the early 1800s alongside others such as the concertina, the bandoneon, and the harmonium.
The music theme of the Doodle included the “Google” logo integrated within accordion bellows, which was depicted being played while artists dressed in traditional German costume danced to their tunes.
Google Doodles are temporary adaptations of the Google logo, created to commemorate local and global themes such as holidays, significant dates, and influential individuals who have made notable contributions to society.
Here is more about the accordion
– An accordion is a movable free chorus musical instrument which contains a treble section with piano-style keys or buttons and a bass section usually with buttons. These components are attached to opposite sides of a manually operated bellows.
– According to the Google Doodle explanation, at the end of the 19th century, German manufacturers increased accordion production to meet the growing demand among European folk musicians.
– Initially, accordions consisted of buttons on one side, each producing a full chord. Depending on whether the bellows were pushed or pulled, these buttons could produce two different chords.
– The worldwide spread of European migrants led to the accordion being more widely adopted in different musical styles. A modern accordion can have either buttons or a piano keyboard, and some models include both.
– Some modern accordions integrate electronic components, allowing them to connect to amplifiers or produce synthesized tones.
– Nowadays, the accordion is common in genres such as folk music, Latino polka, tango, and cajun music. It is a staple at Oktoberfest, a festive event known for its carnival atmosphere, music, and traditional dress such as Dirndls and lederhosen.
– With this musical instrument, everything goes “accordion to plan!” Its timeless sound continues to influence German celebrations and music around the world even after two centuries.
