Spotlight on Resources: Tempo Trend Music – A Trusted Name in Accordions
At the Edmonton Accordion Society, we are always on the lookout for helpful resources for our members. Over the next few months, we’ll be featuring businesses, services, and tools that our members use and recommend. We’re starting with a gem that many of you already know—Tempo Trend Music in Victoria, BC.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Accordions
Tempo Trend Music was established over 60 years ago by Martin’s father, Karl, a watchmaker with a deep love for the accordion. In the 1960s, while working in Sechelt, Karl was introduced to the accordion business through a connection with the Canadian Accordions Institute. He was offered Vancouver Island as a territory to represent the Institute—an opportunity he pursued while still working full-time as a watchmaker. That was the beginning of what would become a decades-long commitment to the accordion community.
Martin began working in the store as a teenager and has now been in the business for more than 45 years. Together, Martin and Karl built Tempo Trend into one of the most trusted names in accordion sales, repairs, and education.
Keeping the Music Alive
In its early years, the business didn’t just sell accordions—it also offered lessons in the family’s home. Accordions, guitars, and drums were the most common instruments taught, with many European immigrant families eager for their children to carry on musical traditions.
Although interest in accordions declined during the 1980s as guitars and keyboards took the spotlight, today Martin is seeing a beautiful resurgence. Many people who once set their accordions aside for careers and family life are now picking them back up in retirement. And surprisingly, younger generations—whose parents may not have played—are discovering the accordion with fresh enthusiasm.
A One-Stop Shop for Accordionists
Tempo Trend Music now boasts the largest accordion inventory in North America. They carry a wide range of new, used, and consignment accordions in all styles and tunings—from classical dry tuning to the vibrant musette sound favored in European and Latin American music. Their knowledgeable staff can help players select the right accordion for their music preferences, physical ability, and experience level.
Their repair technician is also highly regarded, providing professional repairs and maintenance to keep your instrument in top shape.
Services Include:
- Sales of new, used, and consignment accordions
- Accordion repairs and parts
- Accordion lessons
- Trade-up deals: Receive full credit toward a more expensive accordion within 3 years if your original is in excellent condition
Whether you’re a beginner, a returning player, or a collector, Tempo Trend Music has something to offer. Many of our members have visited the shop, met Martin at accordion festivals along the west coast, or had their accordions serviced there.
To learn more or browse their extensive collection, visit their website: www.tempotrend.ca/accordions
Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight great resources for accordion players in the months ahead!
