The Bodhran (meaning deaf or haunting) is an 18-inch one-sided drum made from Goatskin
that has been treated in hydrated lime mixed with secret ingredients and soaked for 7-10 days
in a solution of lime sulphide which softens the skin, de-hairs it and dissolves the fatty tissue.
Sometimes the skin is buried in manure. It is finally stretched under tension before
being glued and nailed onto a Birch frame.

Genuine Goatskin is a natural 'live' material that expands and contracts slightly
with changing temperatures. It has an infinite variety of subtle 'veining'
and it's rich lustre becomes more beautiful with age.





In the hands of a skilled player the Bodhran can be a subtle and exciting instrument.
The player can strike the skin in a variety of ways, one hand tucked in behind the skin,
pressing and moving to vary the colour and intensity of the sound. The side of the
'tipper' or beater is also used to good effect on the wooden rim.

The double-headed beater, unique to the bodhran, is called a cipin