The melodeon is an American invention from the first half of the 19th century. Although melodeons were very popular before and during the Civil War era, they are seldom seen today. Housed in a piano-like case, a melodeon is a small reed organ with a five or six octave keyboard.

What is a melodeon in music?

Melodeon, also spelled Melodium, also called Reed Organ, or American Organ, keyboard instrument sounded by the vibration of free reeds by wind. It is an American development of the harmonium, from which it differs in two principal respects.

What is the difference between a melodeon and an accordion?

Strictly speaking, a melodeon is a single row instrument with only two basses. ... Accordion is the generic name for the family of bellows driven free reed instruments having chords as well as melody notes. Button key instruments are sometimes spelled accordeons to distinguish them from piano key accordions.