Google Doodle Celebrates Accordion’s 195th Anniversary
On May 23, Google Doodle honored the accordion, a German musical instrument patented in 1829. This free-reed instrument, celebrated for its influence across genres like pop, jazz, folk, and classical music, was highlighted with a playful Doodle featuring the “Google” logo integrated into the bellows.
Derived from the German word “akkord” (chord), the accordion emerged in the early 1800s alongside the concertina, bandoneon, and harmonium. Initially featuring single-sided buttons producing full chords, it evolved with German manufacturers ramping up production in the late 19th century to meet rising demand among European folk musicians.
The spread of European emigrants popularized the accordion globally, integrating it into diverse music styles. Modern accordions come with buttons or piano keyboards, sometimes both, and may include electronic components for amplified or synthesized sounds.
Today, the accordion remains central to genres such as folk, Latino polka, tango, and cajun music. It is especially iconic at Oktoberfest, where its melodies complement the festive atmosphere. Even after nearly two centuries, the accordion continues to charm with its timeless sound, ensuring everything goes “accordion to plan!”
