I've recently become fascinated with concertinas and am considering buying one and learning to play. I've examined a 30-button Anglo and heard it played, but I've never seen an English concertina.

From what I've read, it seems to me the English would be easier for an ex-piano player to learn, since the buttons are arranged more like a keyboard than the Anglo's are, and you're only dealing with a single note on both push and pull, rather than a separate note for each like the Anglo.

I've also heard that the Anglo is used more for Celtic music, which I likely would not play a lot of--I love to listen to Irish, but would rather play/sing old-time, country, or bluegrass. And the English is supposed to be a better instrument for accompaniment.

I'm not planning to buy a vintage or antique instrument, and I don't want to spend very much money until I find out if I really like and want to learn it.

Any comments or opinions about which might be my best bet? I'd appreciate your expertise on this!

Lin