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Squeeze This! A Cultural History of the Accordion in America

Online ISBN:
9780252093852
Print ISBN:
9780252036750
Publisher:
University of Illinois Press
Book

Squeeze This! A Cultural History of the Accordion in America

Published:
1 March 2012
Online ISBN:
9780252093852
Print ISBN:
9780252036750
Publisher:
University of Illinois Press

Abstract

No other instrument has witnessed such a dramatic rise to popularity—and precipitous decline—as the accordion. This book is the first history of the piano accordion and the first book-length study of the accordion as a uniquely American musical and cultural phenomenon. The book traces the changing idea of the accordion in the United States and its cultural significance over the course of the twentieth century. It focuses on key moments of transition, from the introduction of elaborately decorated European models imported onto the American vaudeville stage and the instrument's celebration by ethnic musical communities and mainstream audiences alike, to the accordion-infused pop parodies by “Weird Al” Yankovic as well as a recent revival within contemporary cabaret acts and pop groups such as They Might Be Giants. Loaded with dozens of images of gorgeous instruments and enthusiastic performers and fans, this book represents the accordion in a wide range of popular and traditional musical styles, revealing the richness and diversity of accordion culture in America.

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