A Concertina Maker in London in 19th CenturyGeorge Jones was a noted manufacturer of Concertinas, retiring from the trade about 1910. His instruments are becoming scarce, although it is possible that many remain in use in the Salvation Army. The following is taken from a manuscript kept by him, and is given as far as possible in his own words. It is published for the first time, being taken from the ICA newsletter of September 1855. Recollections of the English Concertina Trade by George Jones, with comments by Frank E. Butler and Neil Wayne. nt notice printed here: From Musical Opinion and music trade Review, 1st September 1899 Retirement of Mr. G. Jones Fourteen years ago we gave a brief biography of this gentleman, whose business premises in the Commercial Road, London are well known to many of our readers. Mr. Jones has just retired in favour of his sons, Arthur George and Harry Sidney, who will continue the business under the firm name of "George Jones and Sons", and let us hope with similar, if not more, success than heretofore. Before the late proprietor retires, in that ease and rest which is his due, it ought to be recorded that he made the first Anglo-German concertina (twenty-two keys) so long ago as 1851; three years later his chromatic Anglo-German (twenty-six keys) was brought out, ultimately one with thirty-four keys coming to the front, and possibly assisting to found the concertina trade. In 1855 he made the first portable harmonium and the first cottage harmonium, the latter to retail at five guineas. Ten years later, our friend enlarged the size of the English concertina, thus admitting of the use of broader steel reeds. About this time he designed and made broad steel "Anglos" for the Salvation Army. Other items followed: in 1876 he wrote and published the first Tutor for the Anglo-German instrument; in 1855 brought out an improved piano concertina, &c.; also about the same time patented his improved chromatic concertina (forty-two keys) and an improved portable harmonium, which latter holds its ground in the estimations alike of players and dealers. Mr. Jones in bidding farewell to his many and long-known friends in the music trade, hopes for a continuance of business for his sons and successors. (Mr. Jones died in 1919, probably soon after writing the above. His sons had all pre-deceased him, but he left several daughters and many grand-children. As far as is known none are in the trade as the present time, although a certain amount of musical talent has from time to time been evident. - F. E. Butler) If you want to read more, visit the Hobgoblin music shop and Museum
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