What Is a Celtic Bodhran Drum?
The bodhran drum is a percussion instrument that is commonly used in Irish music--especially traditional Celtic songs. It's distinct, tuned-percussive sound has been a favorite choice for Irish composers and performers alike. Learning what a bodhran drum is and its function in modern music can get you on your way to learning the instrument and using it in your own compositions.
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Identification
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The bodhran drum is a small, circular, hand-held drum. The user holds the drum with one hand while striking it with a wooden stick called a tipper.
Size
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Bodhran drums range in size from 10 to 26 inches, with most models falling into the 14- to 18-inch range.
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Features
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The drum head is made up of goatskin or synthetic plastics, and sometimes kangaroo skin, that is stretched out and attached to a wooden frame that keeps the skin in place.
Use
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The bodhran drum was first used as a Celtic war drum as far back as the early 1600s. Since then it has been used as a percussion instrument in both Irish folk and popular musical styles.
Fun Fact
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The word "bodhran" translates to "skin-tray." Some scholars also state that the word can be translated to "dull-sounding" or "deaf."
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Resources
- Photo Credit wikipedia.org
