Bodhran Drums for Sale
The Bodhran is one of the most expressive drums used in Irish music. Typically made out of wooden frames with animal skin heads (typically goatskin), its structure makes for easy handling while adding great expression.
John Joe Burke is widely credited with revitalizing the image of bodhran with his energetic playing style and adding complexity to its sound.
Origins
The bodhran is an emerging instrument within Irish music, yet its origin remains obscure. Some have speculated that its roots lie with drums used by Celtic warriors to announce arrival or strike fear into enemies; or perhaps its designs were inspired by perforated skin trays used for dyeing wool (such as those found at NMI) that were popularly employed to achieve Celtic colors such as purple and green – colors still commonly associated with these cultures today.
Sean O Riada’s efforts in including it as part of Ceoltoiri Chualann in the 1960s was pivotal in its rapid rise, as was that of other musicians such as Robin Morton of The Boys of the Lough and Peadar Mercier from The Chieftains who have promoted it internationally through innovative playing techniques that make the bodhran responsive to melodic phrasing and cadence.
Styles
The Bodhran is an expressive instrument with seemingly limited uses, yet its expressive potential belies its apparent simplicity. Used both with tipper (a double-headed stick), and by hand, this drum becomes an integral part of Irish music sessions – providing rhythm and texture to lively jigs, reels, and ballads.
Bodhran masters such as Robin Morton from Boys of the Lough, Peadar Mercier of The Chieftains, Christy Moore from Planxty and Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh from De Dannan all developed techniques which allowed them to synchronise with the cadence and melodic phrasing of traditional Irish music when playing their instruments – this revolutionized bodhran playing and brought greater awareness of traditional Irish music into wider public awareness.
Modern musicians continue to embrace the versatility and adaptability of bodhrans. New innovations, such as tunable frames and different skin types allow players to further tailor their instrument’s sound and style.
Equipment
Whether providing rhythm for dance tunes or accentuating melodies in ballads, the bodhran is an integral component of Irish folk music. Its traditional role connects musicians to centuries of heritage while inspiring modern creativity.
Bodhrans come in various sizes and shapes, from shallow circular frames to deep barrel-like instruments. Their drumheads typically feature goat skin but may also include other materials like deer antler, greyhound or even kangaroo hides. Many modern bodhrans also feature adjustable frames to allow players to maintain consistent tone throughout a performance.
Accessories such as tips (tippers) and cases enhance the playing experience for beginners while helping them develop proper technique. A player’s selection of frame, head type and playing style will ultimately determine its sound and usability.
Techniques
No matter if you play traditional or modern Celtic rock music, the bodhran adds an indispensable rhythmic pulse. From driving beats energizing dance tunes to subtle tonal variations highlighting slow airs and ballads, discover an instrument which fits your unique musical style here at Bodhrans for Sale!
As a relatively recent addition to Irish musical life, the bodhran has quickly been adopted by musicians of all genres. Renowned virtuosi like Robin Morton of The Boys of the Lough, Christy Moore from Planxty and Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh from De Dannan have developed complex playing techniques.
Unfortunately, too many bodhran players lack the dedication necessary to learn proper bodhran playing technique. A roomful of people banging away at their instruments is no way to make music!
Music
The Bodhran is an essential instrument in Irish folk music, providing rhythmic accompaniment for reels, jigs, and ballads. Although its simplicity may conceal its expressive potential; its circular frame and single drumhead produce a range of tones which were traditionally played using either hands or sticks called Cipins.
James “Sonny” Davey began making bodhrans for tourists during the 1920s but soon found an increased demand from musicians. His first drums often had jingles along their frames and were composed of goat or sheep skin.
In the 1970s, drummer Seamus O’Kane introduced the internal tone ring. This device enhances the sound of the bodhran by reducing edge-loading and dampening unwanted overtones; additionally it protects its rim from warping under atmospheric conditions – an innovation which revolutionized playing styles on this instrument.
