The Bodhrán (pronounced bod-ran) is an Irish frame drum. They can range anywhere from 10 to 26 inches in diameter, and are composed of the frame itself, with an animal skin (usually goat) stretched very tightly across one side. The other side is left open, where the player can place his or her hand, which will enable them to control the pitch of the drum. Occasionally, there may be a cross bar inside the drum, which will enable the player to hold the drum. Some of the modern drums will have a system in place, similar to modern drums that allow tightening or loosening of the skin, in order to “tune” the drum to the desired settings. This is usually done with a special key, or a screwdriver.

Continue reading →