The Irish Drum Bodhran
Irish drum bodhran’s exact origin remains unclear. Some theorize that its precursor may have evolved from skin trays used to transport potatoes or peat.
Bodhrans are flat drums resembling large tambourines without the cymbals, played using a stick known as a beater or tipper.
Origins
As with anything online research can bring up numerous opinions as to its origins; most agree it likely originated in Persia due to its use for winnowing (separating seeds). Furthermore, similar drums exist throughout North Africa which have long histories associated with them.
However, the bodhran only truly became part of traditional Irish music in the 1960s with Sean O Riada’s arrangements for Ceoltoiri Chualann and Chieftains making its introduction more prominent.
Since that time, various innovations have been introduced. Most notably were new playing techniques made popular by Bodhran masters such as Peadar Mercier and Johnny McDonagh of De Dannan who furthered its playing style through techniques such as dampening the sound with one hand thereby adding melodies qualities to its beats.
Construction
The bodhran is an Irish frame drum measuring 9 to 25 inches in diameter with sides ranging from 3 to 8 inches deep, featuring one or two cross pieces to hold your hand while being played using a beater known as a cipin. It is thought to have evolved from tambourines used as tools for carrying peat but producing an appealing sound when struck – hence becoming used for music instead.
A bodhran can be constructed out of goatskin stretched over a circular wooden rim or other animal skins. Its head may be secured either using glue, nails or staples; glue allows tighter stretching which produces stronger tones. To maintain optimal tone quality the skin must remain damp enough not to tighten too tightly resulting in weak tone production.
Tuning
Numerous bodhran players adjust their instruments using techniques involving hands and fingers, which allows for creating a range of notes on the drum from low to high pitches.
Bodhrans can be sensitive to humidity changes that alter their tone. For optimal performance, the conditions under which your bodhran was mounted and tuned by its maker must remain close.
Some bodhran makers employ internal “tune rims”, usually funnel shaped, to reduce atmospheric fluctuations from impacting their drums’ tone. Some models also contain cardboard “shims”, used to increase skin tension – these can easily be removed once dry conditions occur. Finally, dubbing applied directly to the skin can reduce humidity’s impact on tones as well.
Styles of play
Initial prototypes of the bodhran were combined agricultural tools and musical instruments used in hunting rituals around December; it gained greater acceptance into Irish musical tradition after Sean O Riada included one in his ensemble in 1960s.
A drum can be played while sitting down, with one hand (usually the left) holding a stick known as a cipin in their fist and striking different areas of its skin to achieve different pitches and sound characteristics.
Recent years have witnessed some remarkable bodhran players like John Joe Kelly and Peadar Mercier show their skill on the instrument, inspiring contemporary audiences with their talent. Along with Johnny McDonagh they are widely credited with leading innovations in contemporary bodhran playing techniques.
Accessories
Skilled players of the drum can create an array of notes on its skin, from urgent taps to melodious ringing beats. Varying pressure applied under its surface also can alter or dampen sound production; thus enabling different tones.
A bodhran is typically painted, and may feature decorative elements ranging from Celtic spirals and GAA county colors, to family coats of arms. While such decoration doesn’t affect sound quality, it often serves to distinguish different musicians’ playing styles.
Beaters are essential accessories when playing a bodhran, and it is best to try several sizes before purchasing the perfect one for your style of playing.
