John Turner — Accordion Specialist & Founder of Squeezebox Marketplace

John Turner is one of the most experienced figures in the UK accordion and melodeon trade, with nearly 35 years of hands-on involvement in the supply, development, and distribution of free-reed instruments.

As founder of Squeezebox Marketplace, John has built a specialist business dedicated entirely to accordions and melodeons—supporting players across the UK, from complete beginners to professional musicians.

Experience in the UK Accordion Trade

Over the course of his career, John Turner has played a central role in the growth of the traditional music retail sector in the UK. He was a founding member of several influential music businesses, including the procurement of the historic Dave Mallinson Music operation, and then going on to help establish one of the largest traditional instrument retailers in Yorkshire.

This depth of experience gives John a practical understanding of what players truly need from an instrument—not just in terms of specification, but in playability, tonal character, and long-term reliability.

Relationships with Leading Accordion Makers

John has developed long-standing working relationships with some of the most respected accordion manufacturers in Europe, particularly in Italy and France.

Through these relationships, Squeezebox Marketplace is able to offer carefully selected instruments that meet the expectations of serious players, while also supporting those new to the instrument with reliable and well-prepared options.

A Focus on Accessibility

Alongside high-end instruments, John is particularly passionate about making accordions more accessible to a wider audience. This has led to the introduction of the accordion rental scheme, allowing players to begin their musical journey without the barrier of a large initial investment.

He has also overseen the development of the Kingfisher accordion range, designed to offer strong value, playability, and reliability for beginners and advancing players, while maintaining the standards expected from a specialist retailer. These are a core model for our rental scheme.

Active in the Folk Music Community

Based in North Yorkshire, John Turner remains closely connected to the UK folk and accordion scene. He regularly attends festivals, workshops, and events across the country, maintaining direct contact with players and staying in tune with the needs of the community.

This ongoing involvement ensures that the advice offered through Squeezebox Marketplace is grounded in real musical practice—not just theory.

Work with Squeezebox Marketplace

At Squeezebox Marketplace, John and his equally experienced colleagues work directly with customers to help them choose the right instrument. Whether selecting a first melodeon, upgrading to a professional accordion, or exploring different systems and setups, his approach is always based on honest, practical guidance tailored to the individual player.

Appointments are available at the North Yorkshire headquarters. You can get in touch here to arrange a visit or discuss your requirements.

Contact

Telephone: 07818 041717
Email: john@accordionimports.com

Squeezebox Marketplace — specialist knowledge, trusted advice, and a lifetime of experience in accordions and melodeons.

Or for the South of England ask for Paul 

Telephone: 07813961249