This Israeli Folk Chant is arranged by the esteemed scholar and accordion teacher Elsie M. Bennett and published by Pietro Deiro Publications. The collection of songs is entitled "Hebrew and Jewish Songs and Dances - Volume I." Elsie Bennett (nee Blum) received a Master of Arts degree from Columbia University Teachers College in New York, also receiving a Music Bachelors degree from Wayne University in Detroit (majoring in theory and composition).
Performed upon my vintage Hohner Regina VI accordion, a 4/5 reed instrument in LMMM configuration, with a date of manufacture originating in 1938.
I love the sound of these vintage Hohner reeds. Most of today's accordions simply do not sound like this. The strong wooden frame must add a lot of dimensional integrity to the projection of both treble and bass voices. There are only two treble settings, one lighter dry musette register and then the full master register with all voices sounding. Remarkably, the external appearance of this accordion shows almost no signs of wear or missing decorative trim, despite its 76 year lifespan. When we find instruments like this, we treasure them. When I bought the accordion, I asked the seller about the history behind this instrument. He told me that it once belonged to someone's grandfather who cherished it. When the grandfather passed away, the grandson decided to part with it rather than to keep it for sentimental reasons. You really have to see this instrument in person in order to fully appreciate the decorative qualities of the ornamental grill and precise details of its artistic design. There are sparkling jewels set into the grill which flash iridescent colors when struck with light. The carving of the grill area shows extraordinary attention to precise shape and artistic pattern. The black decorative trim and lettering add measures of enchantment to the overall ivory/ cream color scheme on the exterior. This Hohner is a relatively lightweight instrument with a rather petite 16.5 inch keyboard. Yet it is the sound which still attracts me and belies its diminutive but charming size.
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