Diatonic Button Accordion

The diatonic button accordion is bisonoric: each button produces two notes, one on the push and one on the pull. This mechanic shapes how the music breathes and gives the instrument its characteristic rhythmic energy. It is the sound of Irish traditional music, Cajun two-steps, Norteño conjuntos, and French bal-musette. Different traditions favour different key configurations. The B/C tuning is standard in Ireland; Cajun players commonly use D or C. The diatonic accordion rewards players who make the push-pull central to their phrasing.