This early version of the accordion was given the name “Armoniche”, and was sold at fairs and markets in nearby towns. Here, he began producing the instrument on a larger, more commercial scale. He began to produce a small number of prototype instruments, loosely based on the musical box that had captivated him several years ago.Ī few years later, after he perfected the design and became a highly proficient player, Paolo moved to a larger workshop where he employed his first workers. In 1864, with the help of his brothers, Paolo set up a small workshop within the family farmhouse. Either way, it was Paolo’s fascination with this instrument that led to the birth of the accordion industry. Others say that the traveller gave the box to Paolo as a token of his gratitude for the Soprani family’s hospitality.

Some say that he awoke during the night and studied the instrument intently, producing detailed diagrams of its internal workings.

There are many theories as to how Paolo obtained the secrets of this box. This had been designed and patented several decades earlier in 1829 by Mr Demian of Vienna. One of Antonio and Lucia’s oldest sons, Paolo, was extremely interested in this musical box, which was in fact a homemade copy of an instrument named the “Accordeon”. Whilst resting in front of the fire, the traveller produced a strange musical box, which he played for the duration of the evening. This was home to Antonio and Lucia Soprani and their children, who welcomed the pilgrim in. The story of Paolo Soprani and the accordion as we know it today, all began in 1863 in a farmhouse just outside of Castelfidardo, a medieval town located in central Italy.Īfter being caught in a heavy storm one evening, an Austrian pilgrim sought shelter in a nearby farmhouse. We always have a large range of Paolo Soprani accordions in stock, and can order in any new instrument from Paolo Soprani that is not currently in store. Here at The Accordion Shop we have a large stock of new and used Paolo Soprani piano accordions for sale. New and Used Paolo Soprani Piano Accordions for Sale

Accordion for sale