Squeezed out: last accordion maker in France to close shop after 105 years

Maugein owner blames competition from China and Covid pandemic for firm's demise, but former French president says there is hope

Its distinctive sound has provided the soundtrack for some of France's most recognisable cultural classics, from Parisian dance halls to the film Amelie and the songs of Edith Piaf. It has even been played by a former president.

But it seems the traditional French-made accordeon a bretelles (strap accordion) has been squeezed out of existence after Maugein, the country's last manufacturer, was forced into liquidation after 105 years of making the instrument, known as the poor person's piano".