Fadac, every time I hear someone tell of having worked on a ship I am very interested. I am in love with the old sailing ships. I like sailing, but have never been on anything bigger than my Dad's little one man boat. I used to sail it by myself. It had a mainsail and a gib.

I'm in love with sea shantys also, and like to sing the more ballad types. The working shantys aren't really suited for my voice. (Not too many women working on the ships in those days)

My concertina is an English. I tried both before buying and found that the English was more suited for the accompaniment to my singing than the anglo. But I did find the Anglo easier to play initially.

BTW, it is true that playing concertina can help keep your sanity, I know. You see, if I am steamed at my kids, I play the concertina and I feel better, more relaxed. Better than drugs!

Margarita