I got an update and some pictures from the man making my new concertina in Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.

"Bellows and reedpans, no valves, pins or gaskets yet. The bellows will be attached to the bellows frames tomorrow. The choice wood for this one is hard maple veneer of my own making. This will prevent any stability problems due to changes in humidity."

Below are the pics. He should be able to play ot within a few days. I leave for Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2025 on July 5. After flying all night I'll land at Shannon Airport and then drive to Tralee to collect the concertina. Then I'll head on to Miltown Malbay where I'll be taking a weeklong intermediate concertina class

Straps being stitched today.

"Bellows on the press again. It will be assembled tomorrow and will do the first note reading... "

Today's update. Assembled and nearly completed except for some cosmetic additions.

" Your concertina is now assembled. It is extremely efficient in its low air usage. The sound is good in my opinion and it will get better in time. I have pictures. Let me know if you want to see them. Your straps are not fitted yet and the thumb screws will be replaced for the Linota model ones. It needs leather prints. Let me know if you want it left plain. The owner's name goes engraved on a removable nickel silver plate that goes on the right handle. Let me know your choice."

Going with number 4. The finished product will look like the one in this photo.

Today Jose's adding some flair with gold imprints on the leather.