Ron Hodgson was born in Carlisle in 1929. He became one of the seminal figures in the UK accordion scene. He was a superb accordionist, orchestral MD, teacher, composer, arranger, examiner for the British College of accordionists, BCA Board of Examiners member, Chairman of the National Accordion Organisation, festival organizer and adjudicator. In 1957 he represented the NAO in the World Arts Festival in Moscow, where he won a silver medal.
From 1957 until 2005 he ran a highly successful accordion school in Carlisle, from which emerged the highly accomplished Ronmar Accordion Orchestra, twice winners at the All Britain Championships. Ron recorded 3 CDs along with Julie Best, one of his former pupils.