The note range of a standard accordion's right-hand manual typically spans from F2 to A7, though the written music often reflects a different range.
The note range of an accordion can vary depending on its size, type (e.g., piano accordion, button accordion), and the number of keys or buttons it has. However, focusing on a common type provides a clear answer.
For a standard 120-bass/41-key piano accordion, the right-hand manual's range is defined by its keyboard.
Right-Hand Manual Range Details
Based on common specifications and the provided reference:
- Written Range: The notes as written on sheet music for the right-hand manual of a standard 120-bass/41-key piano accordion are from F3 to A6 in scientific pitch notation. This covers three octaves plus a major third.
- Actual Sounding Range: Accordions feature 'stops' (registers) that select different sets of reeds. These reeds sound at various octaves (often unison, octave lower, octave higher, etc.) when a key is pressed. Depending on the stops chosen, the actual pitches produced by the right-hand manual can sound one octave lower or one octave higher than written. This extends the effective sounding range.
Therefore, while written as F3 to A6, the actual pitches heard can range from F2 (an octave below F3) to A7 (an octave above A6) when different stops are engaged.
Here's a summary:
| Aspect | Range (Scientific Pitch Notation) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Written Range | F3 to A6 | As seen on sheet music |
| Sounding Range | F2 to A7 | Actual pitches produced (via stops) |
This capability to select different reed banks via stops allows the accordion to produce a rich, layered sound and cover a broader spectrum of pitches than suggested by just the keyboard layout.
