For Carol C -- if she's still reading this thread.
Don't forget: not only can you play melody and chords, but you can also play bass. You can play melody, chords and bass, plus you can sing along. PLUS you can carry it around while you play and sing, and you never have to plug it in. What other instrument gives you so much in one beautiful box?
Another accordion joke: There is a very thin line between "accordion playing" and "mental illness".
== Johnny in OKC