Bodhran Music
A bodhran is a flat drum similar to a large tambourine without its jingles that is played using a beater known as a cipin.
The Bodhran is an essential instrument in Irish Traditional Music. Bodhran players have developed numerous techniques over time; some bodhran players, including those of The Chieftains’ Peadar Mercier and Planxty’s Christy Moore, have become master players.
Origins
Un bodhran player is almost guaranteed to contribute percussion in traditional Irish music sessions, usually using a stick called a Tipper or Beater (in Irish Cipin).
Sean O Riada first introduced the bodhran into modern Irish Traditional music when he included arrangements for this instrument into Ceoltoiri Chualann (later The Chieftains). Following that introduction, players like Peadar Mercier, Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh and John Joe Kelly advanced its playing technique and usage to where we know it today.
There have been various theories as to the origins of the drum; some believe that its predecessor was used as a perforated skin tray for dying wool, while another believes it may have evolved from a tambourine. Whatever its source, the bodhran has become a vital element in Irish musical culture and history.
Styles
As the bodhran evolved, new styles developed. These included using one’s left hand to touch various points on the drum head in various ways to alter sound and pitch; using a brush stick similar to that used by jazz drummers; as well as including techniques from middle eastern frame drumming traditions.
The bodhran is usually played while sitting, although some musicians find playing standing more comfortable. The deeper its rim is, the more its resonance produces that iconic bass tone; however, some musicians find deep rims difficult to hold and maneuver using only their hands.
There are two primary styles of bodhran playing: top end and Kerry or West Limerick style. Many bodhranists incorporate both styles, though younger musicians may favor the top-end style, often inspired by greats like Eamonn Murrray and Johnny McDonagh.
Techniques
There is much that can be said about the bodhran and its playing technique. While popular interest has long been demonstrated (e.g. O Danachair 1955; O Suilleabhain 1984; Schiller 2001) relatively little has been published about this instrument and its playing technique.
Modern bodhrans typically feature a handle which allows musicians to sit their drum on one leg (for right-handeders, it should be the left). Some musicians prefer playing it standing up with or without sticks.
Professional bodhran players should strive to accentuate and embellish the natural rhythms of tunes they play, rather than forcing the beat or jumping out in front to solo. Furthermore, they should match the tempo of music they are performing and keep time with it.
Musicians
The Bodhran is the subject of much speculation and study over time (MacMahon 1978; Such 1985; McGann 1996; Cunningham 1999), though tangible physical evidence from an ancient three-hundred year-old drum may exist – though no conclusive proof has yet been discovered.
Recently, most bodhran players used their bare hand for playing, but today a stick called a cipin is typically employed. When played correctly a bodhran can produce various sounds ranging from urgent rhythms to melodious ringing beats.
John Joe Kelly is widely recognized as one of the finest bodhran players of recent decades. He has played with Flook and recorded multiple albums. His style is subtle yet inventive – his ability to clearly articulate rhythmic components without disrupting harmony is admirable.
Recordings
The Bodhran is a relatively recent instrument to Irish traditional music and only gained widespread interest after Ceoltas Ceoiltoiri Eireann introduced it to musicians during the 1950s. Prior to this it had associations with perforated skin trays used for winnowing grain such as those found in NMI’s Folklife collection; but its unique characteristic lies in its cross-cross support frame opposite tightened animal skins.
Initial drum players used their hands, but nowadays a stick called a cipin is usually employed. Peadar Mercier is one of the pioneers who popularized this style, following in Sean O Riada’s footsteps and that of his group the Chieftains.
There are numerous recordings of bodhran players, from beginner lessons to advanced performances by veterans such as Seamus O’Kane, Darius Bartlett and Victor Barral.
