This One Shop In Pennsylvania Is Unlike Any Other In The U.S.

When you think of accordions, what comes to mind? We’re betting it’s something along the lines of traditional Polish songs, Polka dancing, and maybe even the parodies of Weird Al Yankovic, but this amazing instrument is no joke. Just ask Michael Bulboff, owner of Liberty Bellows Accordion Shop in Philadelphia. This unusual instrument has been around almost two centuries and played a role in the evolution of folk music around the world.

Liberty Bellows Accordion Shop is definitely not your typical music shop. Located in the Historical District in Philadelphia, Liberty Bellows is one of the largest accordion shops in the world and offers a truly unique experience from the moment you step in the door.

Facebook / Liberty Bellows

Philadelphia has always been a melting pot for cultural diversity and early immigrants - particularly those from Poland, Germany, and Italy - brought with them unique customs that have been woven into the one-of-a-kind Philly spirit.

Facebook / Liberty Bellows

Michael Bulboff never intended to become a master of this music instrument, nor did he imagine that he would one day open up this unusual shop, but his story is filled with a love for both music and family.

He first picked up the squeezebox in memory of his father. For him, learning to play was a way to connect with the past, but his interest became a modern reality when he began to repair and sell the instruments through eBay. He taught others how to play and love the accordion and realized there was a niche that he could fill; thus Liberty Bellows was born.

Facebook / Philadelphia Accordion Club

Liberty Bellows, located at 641 S 2nd Street in Philadelphia, doesn't just buy and sell accordions. The shop is also has an open practice space for lessons and workshops and holds open mic nights for players of all ages. The shop hosts seasonal artists-in-residence to support the local music community.

This video, shared by Great Big Story on YouTube, gives you a wonderful peek inside Liberty Bellows and shares the sweet story of how this unique shop came to be, as well as how Michael Bulboff is passing down his passion to the next generation of accordion players, starting with his 3-year-old son.

We must admit, we have a whole new appreciation for the accordion!

Facebook / Liberty Bellows

And so do the Mummers! This lively group is sporting squeezeboxes from Liberty Bellows!

Liberty Bellows is open Tuesday through Saturday for 10:00am to 6:00pm. For more information about this truly one-of-a-kind shop in Philadelphia, check out the Liberty Bellows website for details about their impressive collection, repairs, lessons, and upcoming events.

For other amazing videos about the people and places that make our world wonderful, visit Great Big World YouTube channel to find hundreds of other unique stories from around the globe!