Originally posted by Fran Carango:
Yes, a former accordion player that can play any chord in any key...or scales in any key...
A player that cam improvise in any key..
A player that can read charts and play in real time..
A player that has the command of circles of 4ths and 5ths (Bass buttons were a great learning tool}..
A player that can keep time without a drum pattern or meter..
A player that can appreciate and play the great songs from the 40's and 50's..and know that today's music doesn't compare...
Now do you understand why trained accordionist are great players.. 
and Yes, why I am the player I am today..even with my diminishing skills (becoming lazy because of arranger keyboards).. 
Thanks Fran...I understand completely.
That's why I still play piano and, lately, some Hammond B-3...arrangers can tend to make us lazy.
But, they sure are a lot of fun...and, are a great way to solo gig.
I should be able to retire at 130.

Ian
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Yamaha Tyros4, Yamaha MS-60S Powered Monitors(2), Yamaha CS-01, Yamaha TQ-5, Yamaha PSR-S775.