The bodhrán, a traditional Irish frame drum, has been an integral part of Irish music for centuries, providing versatility in various musical styles ranging from traditional Irish folk to contemporary Celtic rock. The bodhrán has a rich history and has become an iconic symbol of Irish culture, despite its relatively simple design.
Typically measuring between 16 and 26 inches (66.04 cm) in diameter, the bodhrán is a circular drum made from a thin sheet of animal skin stretched over a circular wooden frame. Its skin is held in place by a series of ropes or tension screws that can be tightened or loosened to adjust the pitch of the drum. Played with a curved stick called a tipper, the bodhrán is struck with one hand while the other hand controls the tension of the drumhead to manipulate the sound of the instrument.
The bodhrán’s origin is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is thought to have been used in Ireland for several thousand years. It was likely used in religious ceremonies and rituals in ancient times, and is mentioned in early Irish folklore as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. While the bodhrán had a long history, it did not become widely known outside of Ireland until the 1960s and 1970s, when the folk music revival and Celtic music swept through the country and abroad.
The bodhrán has since become an essential part of traditional Irish music. Its unique sound adds rhythm, depth, and energy to the music, often in accompaniment with other instruments such as the fiddle, flute, or accordion. Solo performances allow the player to highlight their technique and musicality.
The bodhrán’s versatility is one of its unique aspects, with the ability to create soft and delicate tones as well as powerful and driving rhythms. This characteristic makes it an ideal instrument for traditional and contemporary musical styles, to add energy and drive to the music.
Playing the bodhrán is not as easy as it may seem, requiring a great deal of skill, precision, and musicality, taking years of practice to master the instrument. Players adopt their unique approach, with many techniques and styles of playing the bodhrán.
(headline image: Handcrafted Waltons bodhrán)
Top bodhrán players
There are many talented bodhrán players who have made a significant effect on the Irish music scene. Here are a few of the top bodhrán players:
Adam Brown; Aimee Farrell Courtney; Amy Richter; Anna Colliton; Eamon Murray; John Joe Kelly; Cara Wildman; Cathy Jordan; Colm Phelan; Colm Murphy; Christy Moore; Cormac Byrne; David Fallon; Donnchadh Gough; Éamon de Buitléar; Eamon Maguire; Gerry Daly; Gino Lupari; Jack Cooley; Jim Higgins; Jim Sutherland; Johnny Ringo McDonagh; Junior Davey; Kevin Conneff; Marissa Waite; Martin O’Neill; Mel Mercier; Niamh Fennell; Nick Power; Paddy League; Peadar Mercier; Rónán Ó Snodaigh; Seamus O’Kane; Siobhán O’Donnell; Tommy Hayes.
These are just a few of the many talented bodhrán players who have made a significant impact on the Irish music scene. Whether playing in a traditional or contemporary setting, these players have demonstrated their skill, musicality, and creativity and have helped to keep the bodhrán alive and relevant.
Books
The Bodhrán: Experimentation, Innovation, and the Traditional Irish Frame Drum.
Articles
Interview with Colin Harte about his New Book Focused on the Bodhrán.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.