The shape-shifting sounds of the accordion | Maria Telesheva
Thursday, 27 August 2026 · 1 min read · Listen to the episode ↗
In this episode, Maria Telesheva shares her 12-year journey mastering the accordion, showcasing its versatility by mimicking various instruments and performing a wide range of genres, from Bach to the Beatles. Despite the physical challenges of playing an instrument that weighs around 35 pounds, Maria's talent shines through, as noted by collaborator Chloe Shaw-Shop Brooks. The episode also addresses the lack of American college programs for accordion, highlighting the need for greater recognition and advocacy in music education.
Maria Telesheva has been mastering the accordion for 12 years, showcasing her ability to create diverse sounds that mimic instruments like the bassoon and piccolo, as well as producing a full organ effect. Her repertoire spans various genres, including classical compositions by Bach and popular hits from bands like the Beatles and ACDC.
The physical demands of the accordion, which weighs around 35 pounds, pose challenges for players. Maria's journey with the instrument began when she asked her father to teach her, highlighting her early passion for music. Chloe Shaw-Shop Brooks, who has collaborated with Maria, described her performances as magical, noting that she can execute classical pieces that typically require multiple musicians.
Despite her impressive skills, the lack of American college programs offering accordion as a major presents a significant hurdle for Maria. This gap in music education may necessitate her advocacy for the establishment of an accordion track at a university level. Chloe underscored the critical role of music education for children, drawing from her experiences with Maria to emphasize its importance.
Maria's journey reflects both the challenges and the potential for growth within the realm of accordion music. Her ability to bridge classical and contemporary styles demonstrates the instrument's versatility and the need for broader recognition in academic settings.
This summary was generated from the episode transcript and can contain mistakes.