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Bodhrán - from the word Bodhar - the Irish word for ‘deaf’
The bodhrán is the heartbeat of Irish music. This ancient frame-drum is traditionally made with a wooden body and a goat-skin head, and is played with a double-headed stick called a cipín, tipper, or beater. The modern Irish word bodhrán is properly pronounced bow-rawn, like Cow brawn, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable.
Origin and Introduction into Modern Music
The bodhrán is an old drum but a young musical instrument. Although it has existed in Ireland for centuries, it was introduced into traditional music performance only in the 1960s, and became common only in the 1970s.
Opinions differ on the ultimate origin of the bodhán. Some writers believe that the drum originated in Africa and came to Ireland by way of Spain. Others believe that it originated in Central Asia, and was carried through Europe to Ireland by the Celtic migrations.
What is not in dispute, is that the drum languished for centuries outside the realm of musical performance. It was used in warfare and in various local celebrations, mostly as a noisemaker or primitive rhythm instrument. Until modern times, it was used by mummers and wren-boys in various local festivals in Ireland.
Until the 1960s, it was uncommon outside southwestern Ireland; it was introduced to modern traditional music by Sean O Riada, who used it in his arrangements for Ceoltóirí Chualann and the Chieftains.
Construction
The crossbars were originally used to prevent the warping of the rim, which was made of wood that was bent green. Modern methods eliminate the structural purpose of the crossbars, and many drum-makers now omit them. If you have a well-made drum, you should be able to remove the crossbars without any problem.
Bodhráns were traditionally made with goatskin, sheepskin, and greyhound skin heads. Skins were prepared by burying them in lime for six to eight weeks, then soaking them in a river to wash away the hair!
Perhaps the most significant functional development is the introduction of tunable bodhráns. Between six and twelve tuning screws move a ring which presses against the skin, allowing the drummer to tighten or loosen the skin to change the pitch and adjust for varying humidity.
The best way you can find out more about the bodhrán is to come along to the World Bodhrán Championships in June in Milltown, County Kerry.
Useful Websites
Pictures of the Bodhrán
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