A Remarkable Piece of Accordion History Arrives at The Accordion Shop
We are proud to announce the arrival of an exceptionally rare and historically important instrument here at The Accordion Shop — a magnificent 1960’s Settimio Soprani Artiste VI, an accordion of true world-class pedigree with an extraordinary musical story behind it.
Crafted by hand in the legendary accordion-making town of Castelfidardo, Italy during what many players regard as the golden age of Italian accordion production, this
Artiste VI represents the very finest standards of traditional hand-built craftsmanship. Instruments of this quality were built without compromise, intended for serious professional musicians who demanded not only impeccable sound and reliability, but also character, depth and personality from their accordion.
This particular example is especially significant, having been owned from new by the late James Reavey — former RAF Bomber Command serviceman during the Second World War and one of the most respected accordionists Britain has ever produced. James Reavey made history as the first ever British winner of the World Accordion Championship, establishing himself internationally as a truly exceptional performer during a remarkable musical career that spanned decades.
Built for the Professional Stage
The Settimio Soprani Artiste VI was designed as a flagship professional instrument, and this example remains a stunning testament to the quality emerging from Castelfidardo during the 1960s. The accordion features 120 bass buttons and 41 treble keys, with a four voice double octave setup on the right hand side, coupled to a five voice bass. This world class instrument was fitted with the very finest hand made reeds, and also boasts a double cassotto chamber.
The four voice double octave tuning is very straight even on the tremolo coupler, and allows for a full and expressive tonal range, making it particularly suited to classical repertoire and jazz performance where warmth, projection and dynamic subtlety are essential. The bass response is equally impressive, with five reed sets delivering tremendous depth and authority while maintaining clarity and precision.
The mahogany construction of the instruments casework also enhances the tone further, and contributes greatly to its warm character. Combined with the superb handmade reeds, the result is an accordion with exceptional responsiveness and a beautifully mature sound that simply cannot be replicated by many modern mass-produced instruments.
The Accordion of James Reavey
What makes this accordion truly extraordinary is its provenance. James Reavey was not only an
internationally respected accordionist and former world champion, but also a man who lived through over a century of history. Having served with RAF Bomber Command during World War II, he later went on to become one of Britain’s most celebrated accordion players, earning global recognition for his artistry and technical brilliance.
This Artiste VI accompanied him throughout much of that incredible journey. According to his family, James travelled almost everywhere with this accordion. It was not merely a professional tool, but truly part of his daily life. Whether performing professionally, practising at home, attending musical gatherings or even heading away on family holidays, the accordion was almost always by his side. He continued to play regularly well into his later years, remaining passionate about music and the accordion community throughout his life.
Remarkably, James was still playing this instrument into his centenary years, a reflection not only of his dedication and love of music, but also of the enduring quality of this superb Settimio Soprani. James Reavey passed away peacefully in January 2025 at the remarkable age of 102.
Accompanied by a Fascinating Archive
Included with the accordion is a wonderful collection of personal and historical items connected to James Reavey and his musical life. These include:
• Various accordion magazines featuring photographs and articles
relating to James
• Boxes of his old sheet music and arrangements
• The original hard case
• Historic photographs showing James with this accordion and several other instruments he owned throughout the decades.
Together, these items create an extraordinary snapshot of accordion history in Britain over the
last century. For collectors, professional players and enthusiasts alike, opportunities to acquire an instrument with such a complete and personal provenance are incredibly rare. This is not simply the purchase of a fine
vintage accordion — it is the opportunity to become the next custodian of a truly important musical instrument with a documented life and story behind it.
Preserved in Very Good Original Condition
Despite decades of professional use, the accordion remains in very good original condition. Importantly, the instrument retains its authentic character and originality, something that serious collectors and musicians will greatly appreciate. The finish, fittings and overall presentation remain wonderfully honest and representative of a carefully cherished professional instrument.
The reeds retain the powerful, rich tonal qualities for which high-end vintage Settimio Soprani accordions are famous, and the instrument continues to deliver the warm, commanding sound expected from a top-tier Castelfidardo-built accordion of this era. It is increasingly difficult to find examples of this quality that have remained both original and so well cared for over such a long period of time.
A New Home Deserved
Here at The Accordion Shop, we feel genuinely privileged to have been entrusted with this remarkable instrument, as accordions like this do not come along often. Beyond its superb musical capabilities, this Artiste VI carries enormous sentimental and historical significance, and itt deserves to go to somebody who will truly appreciate not only its sound and craftsmanship, but also the extraordinary life story connected to it.
We hope to find a new owner who will treasure and continue the legacy of this beautiful instrument just as James Reavey did throughout his long and remarkable life.
Price on Application
For further information, please contact The Accordion Shop directly by phone on 01344 873717 or via email at sales@theaccordionshop.co.uk
