Bodhran Drum For Sale
The Bodhran Drum is at the core of Irish music. When properly played, it can convey an array of feelings ranging from somber melancholy to joyous celebration and martial call-and-response.
A bodhran is a frame drum featuring goatskin stretched over one face. Modern instruments have integrated mechanical tuning features which can be tightened or loosen with a hex key for tightening or loosening purposes.
Size
Contrary to other musical instruments like violins or flutes, the bodhran is an especially straightforward instrument for beginner musicians to pick up. This is due to the fact that quality bodhrans produce high-quality deep mellow tones, along with their easily tuneable design and easy tunable mechanism.
When looking for a bodhran, ensure to purchase one with a natural skin head. Synthetic heads produce only a flat tone regardless of how hard you strike them; in comparison, natural skin heads produce an array of tones for more versatile sound production.
McNeela Bodhrans feature 16″ tunable Irish goatskin drums for producing rich, silky tone. Each drum can be tuned by turning its sides for extended harmonic range and come equipped with hardwood bulbous beater, gig bag, online lessons and more. You’ll enjoy playing this McNeela bodhran for many years to come; each skin is hand-cured and conditioned, while its frame is handcrafted from solid Indian rosewood; an attractive yet dense wood.
Tone
The Bodhran is at the core of any traditional Irish music session. A circular drum with goat skin on one side, it produces an array of tones ranging from deep lows to higher pitched notes when played using a wooden stick known as a Bodhran Beater or Tipper to strike its head.
McNeela has perfected their trademark tuning system over many years to provide unmatched tone control and volume flexibility, making this instrument the ideal accompaniment for any situation.
Avoid Bodhrans with painted or transfer decals on their heads as this will have an adverse effect on their sound. When first starting to play your bodhran, use clear water to rub on its backside in order to help stretch and tighten.
Skin
The bodhran drum is constructed of wood with animal skin stretched over it. As the heartbeat of Irish folk music, its unique sound can produce complex rhythms.
Opt for stores that specialize in bodhrans instead of those that know little or nothing about them (for instance stores selling electric guitars and saxophones). Someone with passion for the instrument should purchase theirs so it will be properly cared for.
Always choose a bodhran with natural skin rather than synthetic. Natural skin produces more tones, is more durable, and will keep its original sound better over time. If the skin of your bodhran becomes loose or loosens up over time, simply rub some clear water onto its head (careful not to overdo it!). This moisture will loosen hairs that bind the skin together while tightening tighter its pores for tighter tones that keep the instrument tuned up. This bodhran features McNeela’s 6-point trademark tuning system complete with Allen key included and taped edges for deeper richer tones!
Frame
A bodhran’s frame is typically constructed out of wood. Originally, one or two internal crossbars would be present; this feature has become less frequent on modern instruments. One unique aspect of a bodhran is its ability to produce various notes; this makes it very versatile and easy to use; perfect for conveying emotional states ranging from sorrowful despair through to joyful exuberance or martial urge.
Typically, an ideal diameter for a bodhran is 13-3/4 to 15-3/4 inches with no more than 6 inches in rim depth. Very deep rims tend to create muffled sounds and should also be avoided as these often sound muddy. Furthermore, decals should also not be applied directly onto the drum as this will not enhance its voice; over time these will most likely wear away over time.
