Livestream | Since the 1950s, The Evolution of Accordion Playing

Hi, I’m Dallas Vietty—accordion performer and educator based in Pennsylvania, USA. I’ve been teaching and performing accordion for over a decade, with a focus on jazz, expression, and helping students connect more deeply with their instrument and the music they love. In this livestream, we’re stepping back to take in the big picture: how accordion playing has changed—and keeps changing.

This episode is called “Since the 1950s, The Evolution of Accordion Playing”, and we’ll explore how styles, techniques, and expectations for the accordion have shifted dramatically over the past 70+ years. From changes in touch and bellowing, to articulations and phrasing, to the kinds of music accordionists perform today, the instrument has evolved along with the world around it.

We’ll look at how the rise and fall of the accordion’s mainstream popularity shaped its repertoire, how design innovations affected layout preferences and technique, and how the approach to emotional expression has broadened far beyond the buttoned-up styles of the mid-century. Whether you’re a fan of vintage accordion or a student of its future, this conversation will offer context, insight, and a deeper appreciation of where we’ve been—and where we’re headed.

If you’ve ever wondered why accordion playing sounds different today than it did in the ‘50s—or if you’re trying to shape your own playing with a sense of history and modern expression—this episode is for you.