21, Apr

Origins of Bodhran Drums

The Bodhran drum can be traced back to the 8th century and has its roots tied into various legends; one such legend is known as the Wren tradition.

These instruments were commonly employed during wars and local celebrations as noisemakers or primitive rhythm instruments, serving dual purposes of noisemaking and grain sifting or transport. Additionally, sifters served as both grain tray husk sifters.

Origins

Bodhran drums are flat instruments made of wood with a wooden frame covered by goatskin for stability and are typically constructed using either birch or ash wood species as their frame material.

The Bodhran is one of the oldest traditional Irish instruments, but it remains unknown when or where its creation took place. Some theories indicate its migration from Asia or Africa while others contend it came to Ireland during Celtic migrations.

Named after an Irish word bodhran meaning deaf or dull in meaning; also used as an adjectival phrase meaning troubled, confused or annoyed.

Types

Bodhran drums are traditional instruments made of goat skin stretched over a circular wooden frame and fitted with crossed bars behind its skin for stability and to act as handles.

Modern bodhrans have evolved into more sophisticated musical instruments, often including built-in tuning systems for controlling their quality of sound production.

When buying a bodhran, keep these factors in mind when shopping: height, depth and optional support bars such as T bars (cross bars or single). All of these elements will affect how it sounds.

Materials

Bodhran drums can be constructed out of any number of materials, from wood and goatskin to exotic materials like polyurethane foam and metal.

Bodhrans are an integral component of traditional Irish music and boast a long and distinguished history. Bodhrans may be decorated with Celtic spirals, GAA county colors or family coats of arms for added flair.

These drums typically consist of a frame drum fitted with one side featuring a single-skin head (usually goatskin) that allows one hand to press against its inside to control pitch and timbre.

Styles

Bodhran drums can be played in a range of styles. Some styles are traditional to Irish music while others take inspiration from non-traditional genres like Middle Eastern percussion.

One of the earliest methods for playing Bodhran involves using only your hand – this form is often known as “naked Bodhran” or “no stick style.”

A traditional bodhran drum is traditionally constructed from goatskin stretched over a frame. Some styles even tack or glue the skin in place. Today’s more advanced models boast built-in tuning systems.

Techniques

Bodhran drums are traditional Irish frame drums with circular frames and heads made from goat or calf skin stretched over them.

Bodhran drums can be played using both hands and tippers; for beginners looking to master playing one there are several things they should keep in mind when learning how to do so.

First, it is important to master the fundamental strokes required to play a bodhran drum effectively – including downstroke and upstroke movements.

Tuning

The Bodhran drum, originally popular in Ireland but now found worldwide, can be played using either your hand or using an instrument called a tipper, bone beater, stick, or cipin from a lathe-turned wooden piece called tipper bone beater stick stick or cipin to strike its frame drum skins.

The bodhran has become one of the most iconic instruments of Irish traditional folk music since Sean O Riada first brought it out into public concert halls and theaters during rural celebrations during his 1960s tour, making it a part of Irish musical history and tradition.

Peadar Mercier, Christy Moore from Planxty and Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh from De Dannan further refined their playing techniques during this period, taking influence from various styles of music as they did so.

Basics of Bodhrans – Irish Drum History

Bodhran drums are one of the central instruments in traditional Irish music and its history is one of innovation and adaption.

The Bodhran is an Irish frame drum with an intense and emotive tone. Reminiscent of its counterpart, the tambourine without its bells attached, it produces an deep and menacing sound when played.

Origin

The Bodhran drum is a frame drum used worldwide. The precise history behind its creation remains unknown; some experts speculate it may have been inspired by tambourines popular throughout southern continental Europe.

Though its roots remain obscure, the bodhran remains an essential component of Irish music today. The instrument experienced significant popularity gains after Sean O Riada introduced it into traditional music circles during the 1960s.

Initially, a tight stretch of skin stretched tightly across one side of a drum produced sound while leaving another open allowed users to alter its pitch with their hand. Over time however, innovative bodhran makers and tippermakers developed new techniques for playing drums while improving its sound.

Construction

Bodhrans are Irish frame drums ranging in diameter from 25 to 65 cm (10-26 in), with most drums measuring 35 to 45 cm (14-18 in). Each side of the drum measures 9-20 cm (3 1/2-8 inches). A goatskin head can be attached with glue (synthetic heads or other animal skins may also be used).

One side of a drum is designed with an open-ended design to enable one hand to place against the interior of its drum head to control pitch and timbre, and strikers known as bone, tipper, beater stick or cipin can use their lathe-turned piece of wood as a bone for striking its surface directly or by striking with sticks made out of wooden material crafted on lathes – these instruments allow musicians to experiment freely.

Sound

Bodhran drums produce an unforgettable sound. As frame drums, they can be played either by hand or with sticks (tipper/cipin). Players dampening skin on open sides can alter tonality to achieve greater tonal depth and achieve desired tonality.

Goatskin is the most frequently used skin for drums, while in northern Ireland a specific variety known as Lambeg skin has also become widely utilized.

This drum has a long and distinguished history, dating back to ancient Celtic music and shaping Celtic music across the world. Today it remains an essential instrument in Irish traditional music with prominent players like Peadar Mercier and John Joe Kelly pushing its limits with this dynamic instrument.

Techniques

The Bodhran is a Celtic frame drum. Initially used as an agricultural implement to separate grains into silage granules, Gaelic peasants turned it into an instrument used for musical performances.

A bodhran drum can be played using a beater made up of sticks or mallets. To customize its sound, different techniques such as spinning it around or tipping can be employed when striking it.

Some bodhrans feature adjustable tuning systems inside their drum frames that enable you to customize its pitch in order to play different rhythms.

An additional feature of bodhran drumming is its versatility; players can press their hand against its snare skin in various ways to alter its tone and pitch, creating a wide variety of sounds from urgent taps to melodious ringing beats.

Influences

The Bodhran Drum is an integral component of Irish Folk music. This circular drum with an attached goatskin head has become famous worldwide due to its distinct appearance.

However, its exact origin is still unclear but is believed to have stemmed from ancient history.

The Bodhran drum has become an iconic part of Ireland’s cultural identity. Much of its popularity can be credited to Sean O Riada’s introduction of it into public consciousness during the 1960s.

Types of Small Harps

A small harp is a type of instrument that’s usually not too big or too heavy for a child to hold or play, making it great for kids to practice. There are several types of harps, including Celtic, Pictish, Romanesque, Saung, and Cross-strung harps. These types of harps are very popular with children because they’re very easy to learn.

Cross-strung harp

Cross strung harps have two sets of strings and a unique playing technique. One set of strings is tuned to the diatonic scale. The other set is tuned to the pentatonic scale. Both sets can be used by both hands.

You can play many different types of music on a cross-strung Harp. They can be used in a wide variety of settings, from pop to jazz. They can also be used to create ethnic music, whether it is South American or Scandinavian.

The first cross-strung harp is believed to have been created in late 16th century in Spain. The harp was a church instrument and was fitted with lightweight gut strings. It produced a bright sound.

The seven- to five-string cross-strung harp that is most popular today is constructed with seven to five strings. Each hand is equipped with a full set strings and rich harmonics. The string configuration is similar to the keyboard layout. The range is low C to low G.

Celtic harp

The Celtic small harp is an important part of the Celtic musical tradition. It has its roots in ancient Europe. There are many sizes, shapes, designs available. The harp’s body is typically made of pine or cedar. The strings are typically bronze or brass.

The Celtic harp is characterized by a sweet, bell-like sound. Many musical groups use it today. Its popularity is increasing. Some believe it is heading into a new golden era.

The Celtic harp is a direct descendant from the first harps. It is a very old instrument, tracing back to the Celts. It is Ireland’s national harp. The Irish coins often feature the harp. It is very peaceful and has an ethereal quality.

Saung harp

A Saung harp, also known as a saung gauk, is the national instrument of Myanmar. It is a type arched harp with a long neck made from the root of a tree and 14 chords. It is used in traditional Burmese music, and has been played in royal courts for centuries.

Its name comes from the word for “saung”, or harp, in the Burmese language. Names have been borrowed into Chinese and Mon languages. The Saung is believed that it originated in the ancient Egyptian period.

The earliest song-poem texts in the Burmese language date from the early 14th century. The harp was played in chamber music settings at the court of kings and queens. It was a highly prized and prestigious instrument.

Pictish-style harp

Pictish-style small Harps are musical instruments. It is often depicted in stone carvings because of its curved neck. The Pictish stones first depicted the harp around 800 AD. It was a popular musical instrument of that time.

The clarsach, while not the oldest instrument in Scotland is the harp. The clarsach was the national instrument of Scotland until the mid-nineteenth century, when bagpipes took over as the preferred national instrument.

The earliest known Pictish harp is the Nigg stone. This is a fairly modern example, with about seven strings, although it is likely that more stringed instruments existed at this early date. This instrument is also believed to have more than the five strings shown on the Utrecht Psalter.

Romanesque harp

The Romanesque harp is a type of small harp that developed during the eleventh through thirteenth centuries. The harp features an eliptical soundbox, and a curved ar. The resonator is usually made of skin or wood. It is tuned diatonically and the strings attach with tuning pegs. It is portable and can be played with the fingers of both hands.

Harps were widely used in the ancient Mediterranean. They were also found in Mesopotamia and India. They were plucked with a plectrum and were sometimes strung with wire. They died out in the Middle East around 600 CE.

Harps with multiple rows of strings appeared in the twelfth-century. This was the most common type of harp in erudite music during the Renaissance.

Tara studios gets a Green Signal – Wexford News

Cllr George Lawlor, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, has confirmed that An Bord Pleanala had approved Tara Film Studios’ North Wexford development. He stated that the Wexford film studios were a major boost for the economy and the east corridor of Ireland. This is due to Wexford’s strategic strengths which include its motorway connectivity with Dublin, making it a major film hub. “This is one of the most exciting projects to create jobs in Wexford and I am happy as the Cathaoirleach to Wexford County Council to applaud Tara Film Studios’ vision and commitment for Wexford through the significant investment project,”Cllr Lawlor stated.

He stated that he had spoken to the Savannah Film Commission earlier this year to discuss possible economic partnerships with Wexford. Tara Studios would help to cement these opportunities, particularly in the nurturing of talent and skills across all sectors of the film industry.

Tara Studios received planning permission approval in January 2021. Tara Studios was forced to wait several months because of objections from a relative due to the project’s size. Chief executive of Wexford County Council Tom Enright highlighted the positive effect the announcement had on County’s economy. He also explained how the permission was a game-changer for them. It was then sent to An Bord Pleanala which approved the permission for today’s strategic project.

Construction Planning of Tara Studios

Tara studios will invest in seven stage stages, ten workshops and two office buildings. This is a huge investment for North Wexford. It would create 630 job opportunities with a major movie production. This is equivalent to three major IDA announcements . “This phase will create 120 jobs with indirect employment opportunities like maintenance contracts and equipment supply. Screen Wexford was created to give the skills needed for the industry to create jobs. Enright stated that this makes Wexford a great place to invest and a good place to do business.

Location

Cllr Donal Kenney was delighted to announce the Tara movie studios at Borleigh Manor. It is fitting, considering Hollywood’s history. “I am delighted to see this investment. This investment will be a boon for local businesses and communities. Wexford has a reputation for having skilled workers in the construction sector. The area will be able attract tourists, food, and supply-side opportunities once the studios are constructed, Kenny said. All those involved deserve my congratulations.

Al Butler is Screen Wexford’s film coordinator. Al Butler is Screen Wexford’s film coordinator. Screen Wexford is excited to be able to support international and national productions. Screen talent from Wexford will be developed. ”

The Bodhran, The Unofficial Drum of Ireland

Recently, I was listening to River Dance’s soundtrack. The music isn’t sung with lyrics, which I find makes it easy to write to. Although I have listened to the music many times before, something struck me this time. It was the importance and prevalence of drums in the music. It’s possible that I didn’t notice it before, but the sound of all those clogs gives off an overwhelming feeling of percussion. But if not for drums and their unmistakable rhythm, no Irish dancer would be able find the beat. I was left wondering, how important of a tradition does drumming have in Ireland.

The Bodhran drums is the most popular Irish drum. The history of this instrument is quite short, compared to drums from other parts of the world. It was the Irish who used the bodhran during their rebellion against England that first recorded the instrument’s existence in 1603. The bodhran, like the Japanese taiko drums, was used to wage war. It allowed pipers and soldiers alike to keep a proper marching rhythm. This instrument was a useful tool for warfare and noisemakers, so it must have been successful. It was never used for music until the modern era.

Traditional Irish music enjoyed a revival of popularity in the 1960s. The influence of Sean O Riada (an Irish composer and bandleader, whose compositions greatly contributed to the international popularity of Irish music), was the main reason for this trend. Riada’s use of the bodhran as a musical instrument in his music helped establish the drum. This drum has enjoyed some popularity in Scotland and northern Europe since then, but it is still most popular on its home turf, Ireland.

Bodhrans are drums that have a greater diameter than their depth. Although it can be 10 to 26 inches in diameter, most are 14 to 18 inches in size. It can range in depth from 3.5 to 8. It is open on one end and has a drumhead the other. This drumhead is traditionally made of goat skin. Modern drumheads made of synthetic materials are common in 21st-century bodhrans. Artists can use one side of the drumhead to place their hand on the inside, which allows them to adjust the pitch and timbre of the drumhead.

Bodhrans can be played in a seated or prone position. The artist supports the drum with one hand and his upper body by holding it vertically against his thigh. To control tension, the other hand is used to hold the drum vertically. You can play these drums with your bare hands, or a traditional drumstick. These drumsticks are called “bone”, “tipper,” ‘beater,” and ‘cipin”. Although brushes are a recent invention, some artists use them. There are many styles of playing, and this instrument is still relatively new.

Everything about the Amazing Irish Culture

Even with all the modern-day influences of our time. One country that remains deeply rooted in its culture is Ireland. It is a country with a beautiful landscape that you can see for miles. Ireland has contributed a lot to the world in literature and writing. Oscar Wilde, a famous Irish writer, wrote “The Picture of Dorian Gray”.

The combination of Irish folk music and the beautiful Irish dance steps has influenced many people around the world. Let’s take a tour of Ireland to learn more about the amazing culture.

1. Lifestyle

The hospitality shown by the Irish people is something you would love. They are known for their friendliness. You would feel like you were a part their family, as a family is very important to the Irish.

In rural Ireland, there are still many old traditions. Many urban areas in Ireland still follow traditional customs, despite the advances in technology.

Modern Irish culture is a shared one. It is more common in urban areas. People in Ireland don’t hesitate to show their affection and not keep it for themselves.

You would have no trouble communicating with people if you were a tourist in Ireland. English is still the most widely spoken language in Ireland and the majority of Irish still speak it. The Celtics influenced the Irish language, which is still evident today.

2. Houses

It’s amazing to see that many Irish houses are still built according to the same building patterns and rules as in the past. Although modern appliances are used in many houses, the house’s structure is still the same as it was in the past.

Their houses are also painted in bright colors that will bring a smile to your face. Many houses use central heating systems today instead of a fireplace. We can see how deeply these people are rooted in their traditions.

3. Dance and music

Irish people are well-known for their music and dance, even in the past. The Irish are a happy people. They can still dance to their music, even in times of sadness and trouble, and bring a smile to each other’s faces. Turlough Carolan is one of the most well-known musicians in traditional Irish music. Turlough Carolan composed over 200 musical compositions that are still being played today. Many Irish music featured groups of people dancing together. Even if you don’t have any interest in music or dance, the traditional country music of Ireland will lift your spirits and inspire you to get up and move.

One of the most exciting and fun cultures in the world is the Irish culture. Their deeply rooted culture will bring a smile on your face, no matter how sad or down you feel.

How Irish Music became part of the International Mainstream

The international music scene has seen many Irish musicians and bands wave the Irish flag in the air. Irish music developed from its roots in traditional Celtic music to the more popular forms we know today. Even more popular music has incorporated traditional music and its styles. We’re sure someone out there is listening to an Irish song right now. Irish music is part the international mainstream music.

How did Irish music make it into the mainstream? Many artists have helped to promote Irish music. Sinead O’Connor and Van Morrisson are notable. Hothouse Flowers, Enya, and Enya are also noteworthy. Her haunting voice is a hallmark of New Age music. The Pogues are also a major factor in the promotion of Irish rock music. In the 1990s, there was a time when Irish music was blended with African drums to produce the distinctive Afro-Celtic drum & bass sound. One thing we can say is that Irish music can appeal to a wider audience.

Every day, a wide variety of musical styles are played to an international audience. People can choose from dance or rock music. Irish bands have been able to win the hearts of their fans despite being in fierce competition for their ears. Punk rock was a popular form of music in the 1970s, with several Irish bands contributing to its popularity. The Boomtown Rats and U2 emerged out of this time.

Five Tips to Start a Successful Irish Music Club

Successful Irish Music Club

Over the past few years, Irish music has been growing in popularity. Many people have started their own Irish music clubs.

Unfortunately, sometimes their enthusiasm is not enough to match their expertise and clubs fail before they have the chance to grow. These are some tips to help you set up a club that can last and thrive.

Tip#1

Find the right place. While a pub or bar is the most obvious choice, it’s important to have separate rooms from the main bar. This will give you more control.

It will be very difficult to charge entrance fees if you use the main bar as many people won’t care about the music. It is easier to ensure that everyone remains quiet during the performance by having a separate room.

If the venue is located near public transport and parking, it will be easier to get there and increase your chances of success. It may be a charming little bar in the country, but no one can access it.

Tip#2

Before you begin, make sure you have a group of talented performers. You should have at least 10 acts to go. Not everyone can make it every night.

Tip#3

You should try to attract a wide range of performers. You want your club to reflect the richness and diversity of Irish music. Although it is nice to sing lilting Celtic ballads, it will not be as effective if there are other acts performing singalongs or fiddle bands playing jigs.

Tip#4

Get a professional to spice things up from time to time. Although this may seem expensive, most clubs are able to save money each week by hiring a professional at least once per month. This will give your club credibility and will attract more people to your singing nights.

Tip#5

5. Get someone trustworthy to collect the money. This is often forgotten, but not everyone can be the star act. If your club wants to survive, it is important that you have someone who can manage the finances.

Irish Music

The Irish music

The Irish music is distinctive and has had an influence on many other genres of American music. It was brought to America in 1800s, when millions fled Ireland’s famine and were forced to emigrate to New York, Chicago, Boston, and New York.

The story of Irish music is told through Irish music. A wonderful collection entitled “Bringing it All Back Home: The Influence of Irish Music” was published 20 years ago. It featured many of the Irish songs that were popularized in American Culture, such as Kilkelly and The Lakes of Pontchertain. Kilkelly is one the most saddest songs ever composed. It is composed of letters written by a father in England to his son starting in 1860. They tell him about the deaths in their family and how wonderful it would be to meet the son again.

The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem revived Irish music in America in the 1960s with songs such as Will Ye Go Lassie Go or Roddy Mc Corley. The Clancy Brothers had a significant influence on Bob Dylan’s folk singing style. These instruments are used often in Irish traditional music: fiddle, guitars, uileann pipes and accordion (piano, button, bodhran drums, tin whistle harp, and possibly piano). One of my favorite sounds is the voice. This is Sean Keane singing Ellis Island and Sinead O’Connor from her 2002 album Sean Nos Nua. Sean nos is the traditional Irish singing style, sometimes called comhaille.

Clannad sang in Irish during the 1970s, and Planxty emerged as one of the first groups to do so. I spent several summers at the Loch an Iuir Gaeltacht, County Donegal. Clannad performed for college students when I was there. At the time, I was just 11 years old. Teach Leo was only 4 miles from Crolly. They were great – that was before Enya’s album Watermark gained huge worldwide acclaim.

Although I was a violinist and pianist, I also learned classical music in school. James Eddie Mc Cluskey, a grandfather from County Monaghan, played the fiddle. He also taught me two Irish tunes: The Boys of the Bluehill (and The Dawning of the Day). He used to talk about “An Chualainn”, which I was able to access online. Modern technology is amazing!

The fusion of traditional Irish music

The fusion of traditional Irish music with rock and roll has been a trend since the 1970s. This began with The Pogues, Horslips and Thin Lizzy in the 1970s. Shane Mc Gowan performed Fairytale of New York in 1987 with Kirsty Mc Col. U2, Van Morrison and The Cranberries are just a few of the many successful groups in recent years.

You can divide Irish music into drinking songs, such as Dirty Old Town and Whiskey In the Jar. There are also songs that serve as emigrant songs, such as Roddy Mc Corley and Arthur Mc Bride. Love songs include Down by the Sally Gardens (WB Yeats), and Will Ye Go Lassie Go. Thin Lizzy covered it. The Fields of Athenry’s most well-known Irish song is actually called a Famine Song, although it is still sung at rugby matches and football matches.

Amazingly, all the songs and music above have survived the years. These songs are an integral part of Irish culture. Matt Molloy from the Chieftains gave a concert flute and a microphone to Catherine Coleman, a NASA astronaut who will soon be playing traditional music on a mission to space. According to reports, she said to Matt Molloy that her music “always brings me to a special spot so I thought I would bring yours to one.”

Enjoy a Miami Trip and indulge your passion for music

Miami is as diverse as it gets. It is located in South East Florida and boasts a wide range of cultural influences that make it an exciting destination for tourists. Entertainment is a key focus of the city, which hosts a variety of exciting attractions and annual events.

Because of its diverse population that includes people from Central America and Cuba, Miami has a wide range of experiences and sights. Depending on where you go, you can indulge your senses in the many attractions and experiences these vibrant communities offer.

Because of its diverse cultural influences, Miami’s music scene offers a wide variety of songs and dances. Both conga (and rumba) were brought to Miami by Cubans. People from the West Indies, Caribbean, and other countries brought reggae, soca, and even soca with them. There is also a large dance and techno scene in the city.

The city hosts a variety of music festivals and events each year in recognition of the diversity of sounds it has. These events are meant to honor the rich history and music that Miami has shared.

For example, March is the most popular month in the city for music. The Winter Music Conference opened its doors. It is a celebration of electronic music and was founded in 1985. It lasts for one week and draws thousands of industry professionals who are eager to network. The main event is open only to music professionals, such as record label representatives and DJs. However, thousands of clubbers attend to hear the latest music.

The Ultra Music Festival is held alongside the Winter Music Conference. It attracts around 70,000 fans of electronic music and is held in the city’s Bicentennial Park.

The Jazz in the Gardens festival is also held in March. It is now in its fourth year and attracts approximately 25,000 people. It features a number of top artists such as Erykah Badu, Will Downing and many more. This is an excellent two-day event that you should not miss.

The Mantra International World Music Festival, which is held in December, is another great event. It was established in 2004 and features a variety of music from famous artists, bands, and other musical acts. It hosts art shows and music workshops, which aim to engage the community.

21, Apr

Origins

Types

Materials

Styles

Techniques

Tuning

19, Apr

Origin

Construction

Sound

Techniques

Influences

20, Dec

Cross-strung harp

Celtic harp

Saung harp

Pictish-style harp

Romanesque harp

26, Sep

Construction Planning of Tara Studios

Location

30, Aug

26, Jul

1. Lifestyle

2. Houses

3. Dance and music

25, Jul

24, Jul

Successful Irish Music Club

Tip#1

Tip#2

Tip#3

Tip#4

Tip#5

23, Jul

The Irish music

The fusion of traditional Irish music

22, Jul