Rees Gwerder

The first "Schwyzerörgeli" (squeeze-box or Swiss accordion) were constructed around 1886. Farmers and alpine herdsmen of the valleys of Muotatal/Bisistal (Canton Schwyz), who otherwise held strictly to their old traditions, were pleased with thies new instrument. They transferred the archaic musical expression of their musicmaking to the Swiss accordion. One of the most renowned musicians, who today still reflects the styles of yesteryear in his own playing, is the Swiss accordionist REES GWERDER.