Google Shares a Special Doodle in Honor of the Accordion Patent Anniversary 2024

On May 23, 2024, Google celebrated the accordion with a special Doodle to commemorate the patent anniversary of this beloved instrument. Known for its distinctive bellows and cheerful sound, the accordion has captivated audiences and found its place in a variety of musical genres worldwide.

The Doodle was a charming musical tribute. The Google logo morphed into an accordion’s bellows, featuring animated figures in traditional German attire dancing to its melodies. This paid homage to the instrument’s German roots (the word “accordion” comes from the German word “akkord,” meaning “chord”) and its long-standing popularity in folk music.

According to the Google Doodle description, “Throughout the late 1800s, manufacturers in Germany ramped up accordion production to meet its growing popularity among folk musicians across Europe. Early models had buttons on one side, each producing a chord. Notably, the same button could generate two chords—one as the bellows expanded and another as they contracted.”

The History of the Accordion

The exact origins of the accordion are somewhat disputed. Some historians attribute its invention to C. Friedrich L. Buschmann, who patented an instrument called the Handäoline in Berlin in 1822. Others credit Cyril Demian of Vienna, who patented a similar instrument in 1829 and named it the Accordion, a name that has endured.

As noted by Britannica, “The invention of the accordion is debated among researchers. Many attribute it to C. Friedrich L. Buschmann, who patented his Handäoline in 1822, while others recognize Cyril Demian, who patented his Accordion in 1829 and coined the name.”

The accordion’s global journey paralleled the significant European migrations of the 1800s. As people settled in new lands, particularly in North America, they brought along their accordions and music. This cultural exchange is evident in the instrument’s various nicknames. Italians call it the “Fisarmonica,” Russians refer to it as the “Bayan,” in China it’s known as the “Sun-Fin-Chin,” in Pakistan it’s called the “Harmonium,” and Norwegians name it the “Trekspill.” Each name reflects the local cultural flavor.

The Google Doodle showcased the accordion’s versatility, highlighting its influence across genres like jazz, classical, and pop music. The Doodle’s description playfully referred to the accordion as a “folk musician’s main squeeze,” a nod to its portability and ease of use.

This special Doodle celebrated not only the accordion itself but also its enduring impact on music. From lively jigs to soulful ballads, the accordion’s distinctive sound continues to enchant audiences globally.

Google’s Doodle description elaborates, “Today, the instrument is integral to genres like folk music, Latino polka, tango, and cajun music. It’s a staple at events like Oktoberfest, a festival full of carnival fun, music, and traditional attire like Dirndl dresses and lederhosen. With the accordion in hand, everything goes according to plan! The traditional sound continues to influence German celebrations and music worldwide 200 years later.”