The Anglo Concertina Absolute Beginners Book

Learn Traditional Anglo Concertina the Practical Way

The Anglo Concertina Absolute Beginners Book is one of the most respected Anglo concertina tutor books for beginners wanting to learn traditional folk music. Written by renowned player Chris Sherburn alongside highly experienced music educator Dave Mallinson, this tutor combines realistic teaching, traditional repertoire and clear step-by-step guidance for complete beginners.

Rather than overwhelming the learner with theory, this book focuses on getting real music under your fingers quickly. The result is a highly practical tutor that teaches technique, rhythm, bellows control and traditional repertoire in a way that feels musical from the very beginning.

With 72 well-known traditional tunes covering English, Irish and Scottish folk session repertoire, this book also becomes an excellent long-term tune collection for sessions, ceilidhs, Morris dancing and social music-making.

Why This Book Works So Well for Beginners

This tutor was written specifically for adults learning without regular access to a teacher. Dave Mallinson’s experience as a self-taught traditional musician combines perfectly with Chris Sherburn’s deep practical knowledge of the Anglo concertina.

The teaching approach is realistic, encouraging and grounded in how traditional musicians actually learn and play. The lessons gradually introduce keys, rhythm patterns, bellows changes and traditional dance forms while constantly reinforcing learning through familiar tunes.

Learn Traditional Music Through Real Tunes

Instead of relying on dry exercises, the book teaches through genuine traditional repertoire. Learners gradually build confidence while playing recognisable melodies used in pub sessions, ceilidhs, Morris dancing and folk gatherings throughout the UK and Ireland.

The material includes reels, jigs, polkas, hornpipes, sea songs, waltzes, slides and traditional airs, giving beginners a broad grounding in folk repertoire and dance rhythms.

Foreword by John Spiers

The book features a foreword by celebrated English folk musician John Spiers, who describes Chris Sherburn as one of the defining modern Anglo concertina players of the traditional scene.

Spiers highlights both the expressive power of the instrument and the importance of accessible learning material for new players entering the folk world.

Structured Step-by-Step Anglo Concertina Tuition

The lessons progressively introduce:

• Left and right hand keyboard layouts
• Playing across both sides of the instrument
• The keys of C, G, D, A minor and E minor
• 4/4, 6/8, 3/4 and 2/4 time signatures
• Jigs, reels, hornpipes, slides and polkas
• Traditional accompaniment styles and dance rhythms
• Bellows control and phrasing
• Core traditional repertoire for sessions and social playing

Ideal for Self-Taught Anglo Concertina Players

This book is particularly valuable for players learning independently at home. The pacing is sensible, the explanations are practical and the repertoire remains enjoyable throughout.

It suits complete beginners, returning players and musicians from other instruments wanting a structured introduction to Anglo concertina in the traditional style.

Key Features

• Detailed beginner Anglo concertina tutor
• Written by Chris Sherburn and Dave Mallinson
• Foreword by John Spiers
• 72 traditional tunes included
• Traditional English, Irish and folk repertoire
• Covers reels, jigs, hornpipes, polkas, sea songs and airs
• Designed for self-teaching adults
• Ideal for folk sessions, ceilidhs, Morris music and traditional playing
• Optional companion CD available
• Clear progression from beginner onwards

Listen to a Sample Recording

Hear examples from The Anglo Concertina Absolute Beginners Book and get a feel for the traditional repertoire and teaching approach included in this tutor.

Specifications

• Title: The Anglo Concertina Absolute Beginners Book
• Authors: Chris Sherburn and Dave Mallinson
• ISBN: 9781899512812
• Product Code: AM104
• Optional CD Product Code: AM104C
• Label Number: DMPCD1302
• Format: Book / CD / Book & CD options available
• Page Count: 32 pages

Included Tune List

At Squeezebox Marketplace

At Squeezebox Marketplace we carefully select traditional music tutors and tune books that genuinely help players progress. This title has become a respected starting point for Anglo concertina players wanting to learn traditional music properly, with realistic pacing and strong session repertoire from the very beginning.

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