Accordions Rising

Roberta Cantow, in Accordions Rising, does for accordions what Herman Melville did for whales. In Moby Dick, Melville tells us why whales are supreme amongst all creatures. Likewise, Cantow deftly, beautifully, and compellingly proves that accordions are supreme among all musical instruments. Accordions Rising is fascinating, superbly crafted, erudite, and highly entertaining. The culture of accordions is vast. Although Accordions Rising is a perfect introduction to that unique culture, this reviewer hope that Cantow will give us at least one sequel. Even without sequels, Accordions Rising gives the curious viewer the keys to further exploration.

A wonderful documentary, exploring the beauty of the accordion. Fantastic music, great interviews with charming musicians. This film will have you wishing you could jam along with the likable talented people on screen.

Hours after watching the terrific "Accordions Rising," I find myself with a heightened awareness and a reconsideration of everyday things -- always-present things I've paradoxically neglected in life. What's the creation story behind the manicure scissors in my medicine cabinet? The food anthropology of the Xanthan Gum powder in my pantry that thickens sauces? Such is the impact "Accordions Rising" has beyond the musical instrument it champions -- it encourages a wider rethink and a reinvigoration of interest in all things ignored or maligned.

But here, accordionists themselves debunk my ignorance by providing their impassioned and charming oral histories of their own journeys leading them to a unique instrument; an instrument passively marginalized in society as something too quirky to be shown due respect or interest. These engrossing human interest stories and the sincerity and enthusiasm with which they're told are interwoven with loads of music, which is now heard anew with freshly educated and reconditioned ears. We're listening now, not just passively hearing and selectively ignoring.

"Accordions Rising" is a wonderfully conceived and executed film which by transcending its highly engaging subject matter reminds us that we simply need to pay better attention -- period -- and afford things a preemptive curiosity and respect beyond what our knee-jerk inclinations may assume. Heavily recommended.

It's a sign of a good documentary when it reminds me of how beautiful something is that you never really think much about. I lived in Polish neighborhood for a few years so I was exposed to this kind of music but not on a day to day basis. As culture evolves, there are inevitably going to be "endangered" art forms so it's great to see an entire documentary dedicated to capturing its history and showing the range of music, in a whole new light.

was thrilled to learn of this wonderful little documentary. As a big fan of 1930s and 40s classic jazz, Gypsy Jazz and Tango I really appreciate the accordion. And I remember in the 50s and 60s how the accordion got stereo typed by Polka music. Our European friend always kept it going. This film does a wonderful job of presenting the history, musical variety and love for this instrument.