Bodhrán

The bodhrán (pronounced /ˈbɔːrɑːn/ or /ˈbaʊrɑːn/) is an Irish frame drum ranging in size from 14 to 26 inches (35–65 cm) in diameter, with the most common size being 18 inches (45 cm). The sides of the frame are typically 4 to 6 inches (10–15 cm) deep. A goatskin head is stretched across one side. The other side is open for the player to place their hand against the inside of the skin, to control the tone and timbre.

The bodhrán is usually played with a tipper, also known as a beater or cipín. These tippers can be single-ended or double-ended, and are typically made of wood, though other materials such as bone or plastic are also used. The bodhrán can also be played with the bare hand.

The instrument is primarily associated with Irish traditional music, but it has also found use in other musical genres. While the exact origins of the bodhrán are debated, it likely evolved from agricultural or culinary tools, such as winnowing trays or sieve drums. It gained popularity in its current form in the mid-20th century, largely due to its adoption by prominent Irish traditional music groups.