Tough to learn and tougher still to master, THE BODHRAN is one of the Most interesting and fun drums in the world to play. It is also the weapon of choice for such celtic music luminaries as Kevin Conneff of The Chieftans, Gino Lupari of Four Men and a Dog, Tommy Hayes of Stocktons Wing and, of course, Vash.

The Bodhran (BOW-rahn) is a circular wooden frame drum (usually 12"-18"in diameter x 4"-6" deep, though the dimensions vary widely), with a goat skin head (although bodhrans are also produced with elk, deer, and even kangaroo or dog skin heads).

SUPERQUICK BEGINNERS LESSON:

Just a quick overview. The bodhran is held in one hand and played with the other. It can be played bare handed or with a double-ended stick called a Tipper (Cipin, Striker or Beater). By holding the tipper in your dominant hand, much the same as a pencil (resting between the 1st and 2nd knuckles of your middle finger AND in the space between your thumb and index finger, WITH your index finger resting on top of the tipper) you facilitate playing (mostly with the lower end, using the higher end for triplets) with both ends of your tipper.

If you have your tipper in your dominant hand, then you have the bodhran itself in your other hand. By placing the bodhran on your thigh and slipping your hand into the back of the bodhran (under the cross pieces if your bodhran has them) and applying gentle pressure with the palm of your hand to the skin at strategic times in the rhythm your playing, you can change the tone of your drum and effectively play "notes" on your bodhran. In addition, if you just rest your hand against the back of the skin you can play at least two tone; a tap ON your hand and a more resonant tone on a place without the hand.

For more information about Bodhran playing contact O.A.D.D.. We here at O.A.D.D. are always happy to pass along a few pointers, or to set up a few lessons.



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