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Melodeon Build

This is an extremely popular course with one of Europe’s finest instrument makers. Places are limited to 10, and our previous courses sold out well in advance.

Emmanuel will guide novice makers through the steps to build your own two and a half row melodeon. You will leave with your own professional standard instrument; whilst having a great sense of humour (and extremely good English) Emmanuel is also a demanding task master and will ensure that all instruments made are of the highest possible calibre. In addition to having a wonderful instrument, you’ll also benefit from the inestimable experience of working with a master craftsman and learn techniques for construction, maintenance and repair in the future.

The team will include Theo Gibb from Newcastle, the good friend and usual tuner from the last 25 courses, and Liam Pariselle.

The box you build will reflect your individual preferences and there is flexibility in terms of key, inlay and accidental layout (see below). Case wood is French walnut and reeds are high-quality Binci a mano handmade Italian reeds. Left hand chords have fundamentals and fifths – ie. no thirds – so work with major and minor keys.

This year, following feedback, it's possible to make a 23 button flat Irish fingerboard.

This is an intensive course and you’ll be working long days, but Halsway is an excellent venue, secluded and peaceful enough to free you from distractions, but with superb facilities and a bar on site. Accommodation and all meals (and as much tea and coffee as you can drink!) are included, so all you need to think about is the build – and maybe winding down in the evening with a session or two (bring instruments!).

Each participant will need to decide:

  • a tonality: D/G, G/C, A/D, C#/D, B/C etc…

  • a layout with 10/9/6 buttons or 11/10/4 and 14 or 12 basses. or 12/11 buttons irish flat fingerboard

  • You can view a D/G layout chart, a G/C layout chart here, a C/F layout chart and an A/D layout chart here with Emmanuel’s suggested layouts for each; if you are new to the 2.5 row, it’s recommended you take Emmanuel’s layout.

  • reeds (Binci a mano): choose either MM (with one register to play with or without tremollo) or LM (2 registers, to play M, L, or LM).

  • an inlay line (max 8mm, visit www.marechaux.fr)

  • black or white buttons

  • grille design – two available – standard or lyre

  • Air button is normally as on a Hohner melodeon.

The price includes a good melodeon bag and shoulder straps.

Who’s it For?

No previous experience required, although manual dexterity and basic woodworking skills are an advantage. All tools are provided, but it is helpful if participants can bring a few basic hand tools eg screwdrivers, craft knife, pliers etc. Emmanuel is experienced in working with novice makers, and Chris Mash will also be on hand to offer practical support and to make sure all builds are kept on track. Tuning is done on site by industry expert Theo Gibb.