Diatonic
The Line-Up
Roland is pleased to introduce another milestone in digital musical instrument history—the FR-18 diatonic V-Accordion. Equipped with the renowned V-Accordion sound engine and dedicated new samples, the FR-18 diatonic is a dream come true for folk accordionists seeking a world-class diatonic instrument that can do it all.
Traditional diatonic acoustic accordions have only one tonal key, but the FR-18 diatonic has no such limitation—with its all-digital sound engine, you can change the instrument’s key instantly, with the simple press of a button. The FR-18 diatonic also features a brand new sound set that lets you choose from a lineup of 12 virtual diatonic accordions, as well as a variety of orchestral instruments, Virtual Tone Wheel organs, percussion, and more.
Available in black and red, the FR-18 diatonic fits into a variety of playing environments, preserving elegance and respecting tradition. Since it has no internal speakers, the instrument is extraordinarily light and comfortable to play. With its long battery life, the FR-18 diatonic can be used in all types of situations both indoors and out, and you can pair it with a portable, battery-powered amplifier for the ultimate mobility.
Quality earphones are included with the FR-18 diatonic, so you can enjoy the instrument immediately after opening the box. As a silent accordion, the FR-18 diatonic is perfect for practicing any time, even late in the evening and in small apartments.
Artist Feature
Danilo Di Paolonicola
Danilo Di Paolonicola is one of the finest diatonic accordion players in the world. He has an incredible list of achievements and awards, including six world championship titles and the prestigious Città di Castelfidardo award, the most important in the jazz accordion world. His group, Ethnic Project, has also won the high-profile Stefano Bizzarri award.
Danilo has been playing the accordion since he was six, and now teaches the first experimental course in diatonic accordion at the Conservatory of L’Aquila, A. Casella. He is celebrated all over the world, playing concerts in Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Croatia, Holland, Hungary, Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Japan, the United States, and Portugal. Danilo plays the FR-18 diatonic V-Accordion, and has been working with Roland ever since development began on the instrument. We’re proud to work with such a talented musician and an undisputed great artist.