8 Best Irish Drums

Hey there! If you’re looking to add a touch of traditional Irish music to your repertoire, then you’ve come to the right place. In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at several Irish Bodhran drums and accessories, comparing their features and helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Irish Bodhran drums have a long history dating back centuries and are an essential instrument in traditional Irish music. These hand-held drums, typically made with a wooden frame and a goatskin head, produce a distinctive sound that adds a rhythmic and melodic element to Irish tunes. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, owning an Irish Bodhran can bring a unique and authentic touch to your performances.

Now, let’s dive into the details of each product to see what sets them apart. We’ll be examining the Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran, the Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum, the Remo Irish Bodhran Drum, the Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum, and the Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar. Each of these products offers its own unique features and benefits, making them suitable for different playing styles and preferences. So, let’s get started and find the perfect Irish Bodhran for you!

Trinity College Irish Bodhran

The Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran – Natural Blonde Rim is primarily used for playing traditional Irish folk music.

We love the Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran because it offers a high-quality, authentic experience for players of all skill levels.

This drum, with its traditional 18″ diameter laminated wood rim and twin crossbar support, is designed specifically for producing the distinctive sound of Irish folk music. The genuine natural white goatskin head, attached with tacks, not only gives the drum an authentic look but also contributes to its unique sound. The drum comes with a polished wood tipper for easy and comfortable playing.

The Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran is crafted with exceptional attention to detail, ensuring its durability and longevity. Its high-quality materials and construction make it a reliable and versatile instrument for any Irish music enthusiast.

• Pros:

  • Authentic and traditional design
  • High-quality materials and construction
  • Produces an authentic sound
  • Suitable for players of all skill levels

• Cons:

  • May require some practice for beginners to achieve desired sound quality

With its traditional design, high-quality materials, and authentic sound, the Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran – Natural Blonde Rim is a top choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of Irish folk music. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, this drum provides an excellent platform to showcase your talent and connect with the rich musical heritage of Ireland. Order yours today and experience the joy of playing authentic Irish music.

Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum, Irish Bodhran with Extra Deep Shell, Goat Skin Head, Brown Burl, 2-Year Warranty

The Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum, Extra Deep Shell Irish Bodhran is a traditional Irish drum, primarily used for Celtic folk music. It produces a rich and full sound that is perfect for playing both with and without a tipper.

We love the Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum for several reasons. Firstly, its extra deep hardwood shell allows for a deep and resonant tone that captures the essence of traditional Celtic music. Additionally, the dampening ring around the rim helps to create a more rounded out tone and minimizes overtones, ensuring a clean and crisp sound.

Another feature that sets this Bodhran apart is the removal of the traditional cross bar. This allows musicians to have direct access to the drumhead, enabling them to apply direct pressure and perform contemporary pitch-bending techniques. It adds a unique and modern twist to the instrument, giving musicians more versatility in their playing.

The Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum is specifically designed for traditional Celtic styles of music. Its warm and bold sound, produced by the high-quality goat skin head, captures the essence of Celtic folk music. What’s more, the provided Allen wrench allows for tuning, ensuring that the drum’s sound is always at its best.

Not limited to traditional Celtic music, the Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum can also be used in contemporary music to add unexpected flavors. Its unique timbre adds a touch of cultural richness to any musical piece.

This Meinl Percussion Irish Bodhran is made with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The extra deep hardwood shell ensures durability and longevity, allowing musicians to enjoy this instrument for years to come. Additionally, the 2-year warranty provides peace of mind and shows the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality.

Pros:

• Deep and resonant sound
• Dampening ring for rounded out tone
• Allows for contemporary pitch-bending techniques
• High-quality goat skin head
• Tunable with Allen wrench
• Adds cultural richness to music

Cons:

• Limited to traditional and Celtic music styles
• May require some tuning adjustments initially

The Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum is a top choice for musicians seeking an authentic and versatile Irish Bodhran. Its exceptional quality and unique features make it a valuable addition to any musician’s collection.

Handmade Bodhran Irish Drum Beater/Tipper by Dannan Golan

The Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum is specifically designed for playing the traditional Bodhran Irish drum. It serves as a tool for percussionists who want to enhance their Bodhran playing experience.

This Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum stands out due to its excellent craftsmanship and exceptional performance. It is meticulously handcrafted with attention to detail, ensuring durability and optimal functionality.

The purpose of the Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum is to provide percussionists with a high-quality tool for playing the Bodhran drum. Its key features include:

• Handcrafted Design: Each beater/tipper is carefully handmade by skilled artisans, resulting in a unique and beautiful piece.

• Premium Materials: The beater/tipper is crafted using the finest materials, such as hardwood and leather, ensuring longevity and a comfortable grip.

• Precision Balance: The balanced weight distribution of the beater/tipper allows for controlled and precise strikes on the drum, creating a rich and resonant sound.

• Versatile Usage: This beater/tipper is suitable for both beginners and experienced players, offering a versatile range of playing styles and techniques.

The Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum exemplifies excellent quality. Its craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a reliable companion for percussionists. The use of premium materials ensures durability, while its balanced weight distribution allows for optimum control during performances.

Pros:

• Handcrafted design for uniqueness and beauty
• Premium materials ensure durability
• Balanced weight distribution for precise strikes
• Versatile usage for different playing styles and techniques

Cons:

• May be pricier compared to mass-produced beaters/tippers
• Limited availability due to handmade nature

The Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum is an exceptional tool for Bodhran drum players. Its superior craftsmanship, premium materials, and versatile usage make it a noteworthy investment for any percussionist looking to enhance their Irish drumming experience.

Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head 16 x 4.5 inches by Remo

The Remo Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head 16 x 4.5 in. is primarily used as a rhythmic accompaniment for Irish folk music. It is designed to produce deep bass tones and soft attack, creating the perfect ambiance for traditional Irish tunes.

There are several reasons why the Remo Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head stands out among the best Irish drums on the market. Firstly, its internal tuning system allows for easy and convenient adjustments, ensuring that the drum is always in tune. Additionally, the synthetic Bahia Bass drumhead produces incredible sound quality, with pliability that allows for pitch bending notes. The included hex tuning key and tipper drumstick make it even more convenient for musicians to get the perfect sound they desire.

The purpose of the Remo Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head is to provide musicians with a high-quality instrument specifically designed for Irish music. Its deep Acousticon shell and Bahia Bass drumhead work together to create a unique sound that captures the essence of traditional Irish music. The drum comes in a 16″ diameter and a 4.5″ deep shell, making it the perfect size for easy handling and excellent sound projection.

When it comes to the overall quality of the Remo Irish Bodhran Drum, it exceeds expectations. The materials used in its construction are durable and long-lasting, ensuring that it can withstand extensive playing without losing its sound quality or structural integrity. The attention to detail in its design and the included tuning key and drumstick highlight Remo’s commitment to providing musicians with a top-notch instrument.

Pros:

• Internal tuning system for easy adjustments
• Synthetic Bahia Bass drumhead produces soft attack and deep bass tones
• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• 16″ diameter and 4.5″ deep shell for optimal sound projection

Cons:

• May require some practice to master the playing technique

The Remo Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head 16 x 4.5 in. is a remarkable instrument that offers outstanding sound quality and durability. Its design, unique features, and attention to detail make it an excellent choice for musicians seeking an authentic Irish drumming experience.

Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum – Children of Lir

The Handmade by Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum (Various Options) (Children of Lir) is primarily used for traditional Irish and Celtic music performances. It is also suitable for personal enjoyment and relaxation.

The Handmade by Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum (Various Options) (Children of Lir) stands out among other Irish drums for its exceptional craftsmanship and unique design. It is created by skilled artisans using vegan materials, making it an eco-friendly choice. Its elegant appearance adds to its appeal, and it offers a wide range of options to suit individual preferences.

This 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum is specifically designed to produce traditional Irish and Celtic rhythms. It features a goatskin drumhead that delivers a warm and resonant sound, essential for creating the authentic Irish drumming experience. The drum’s frame is made from high-quality wood, ensuring durability and longevity. The hand-painted Children of Lir design adds a touch of beauty and cultural significance to the instrument.

The Handmade by Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum (Various Options) (Children of Lir) is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Its hand-painted design showcases the expertise of the artisans involved. The vegan materials used in its construction make it a sustainable choice for conscious consumers. The drumhead’s sound quality is outstanding, allowing for a rich and vibrant performance.

Pros:

• Handmade by skilled artisans
• Eco-friendly and vegan materials
• Elegant and culturally significant design
• Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
• Produces warm and resonant sound

Cons:

• May be too large for individuals with smaller arms or hands
• Limited options for drumhead designs

The Handmade by Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum (Various Options) (Children of Lir) is an exceptional choice for anyone interested in Irish and Celtic music. Its craftsmanship, cultural significance, and eco-friendly construction set it apart from other Irish drums on the market. With its warm and resonant sound, this bodhran hand drum is sure to enhance any musical performance or personal drumming experience.

Simplified version: Handmade Bodhran Irish Drum Beater/Tipper by Dannan Feroy

The Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper is specifically designed for use with the Bodhran Irish Drum. The primary purpose of this beater/tipper is to produce the authentic and rhythmic sounds that the Bodhran drum is known for. Whether you are a professional musician or a beginner, this beater/tipper is ideal for enhancing your Irish drumming experience.

What sets the Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper apart from other Irish drums’ beaters/tippers is its exceptional craftsmanship. It is meticulously made by skilled artisans who pay attention to even the tiniest details. The combination of their expertise and passion for music results in a beater/tipper that ensures top-notch performance and durability.

When it comes to Irish drumming, authenticity is key. The Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper is designed to produce the traditional and rich sound that resonates with the essence of Celtic music. By using this beater/tipper, you can achieve the distinct tones and rhythms that make Irish drumming so captivating.

The primary purpose of the Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper is to enhance the Irish drumming experience for users. Whether you are practicing alone or performing in a traditional Celtic band, this beater/tipper helps you achieve the perfect balance of sound and performance.

• Handcrafted with precision and care
• Made with high-quality materials for durability
• Designed to produce authentic and rhythmic sounds
• Lightweight and comfortable to use
• Easy to handle, allowing for seamless drumming techniques

The Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper exemplifies exceptional quality. Its handmade construction, along with the attention to detail and choice of premium materials, ensures that it meets the highest standards of excellence. This beater/tipper delivers consistent and reliable performance, making it a valuable addition to any Irish drummer’s collection.

• Authentic and traditional sound

• Excellent craftsmanship

• Durable construction

• Lightweight and comfortable to use

• Enhances the overall Irish drumming experience

• Limited compatibility with other drum types

• Higher price point compared to mass-produced beaters/tippers

With the Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper, Irish drumming enthusiasts can explore the full potential of their Bodhran drum while enjoying the authentic sounds of Celtic music. Its craftsmanship, authentic sound, and overall quality make this beater/tipper a worthy investment for anyone passionate about Irish drumming.

Roosebeck Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar, 14 x 3.5 Inches

The Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar is primarily used as a rhythmic accompaniment for Celtic and Irish music. Its 14″ x 3.5″ shell size makes it easy to play and carry, allowing musicians to effortlessly incorporate it into their performances.

We like the Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar for its versatility and high-quality construction. It is designed with the player’s comfort and support in mind, featuring a durable mulberry wood frame with a single removable T-bar for hand and wrist support. The frame cut-out provides additional comfort during extended playing sessions.

One of the standout features of this bodhran is its tunability. The player can easily adjust the tuning hardware hidden inside the frame to match their specific playing needs. This allows for a customized sound and ensures that the drum remains in tune for consistent performance.

The purpose of the Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar is to provide the primary rhythmic accompaniment for Celtic and Irish music. Its key features include a 14″ x 3.5″ shell size, a goatskin head, and a durable mulberry wood frame. The frame is equipped with a single removable T-bar for hand and wrist support, and a frame cut-out for additional comfort. The instrument also comes ready to play, complete with a tipper and tuning wrench.

The Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar is constructed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring its durability and longevity. The mulberry wood frame is sturdy, and the goatskin head produces a warm and authentic sound. The hidden tuning hardware allows for precise adjustments, contributing to the overall quality and performance of the instrument.

Pros:

• Versatile and suitable for Celtic and Irish music
• Easy to play and carry due to its 14″ x 3.5″ shell size
• Removable T-bar for added hand and wrist support
• Comfortable playing experience with the frame cut-out
• Hidden tuning hardware for customization
• Comes ready to play with tipper and tuning wrench

Cons:

• May not be suitable for musicians seeking a larger-bodied bodhran

Handmade 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum with Arach Dragon Design

The Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum – Arach Dragon Design is primarily used by musicians and enthusiasts who want to add an authentic Irish sound to their music. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced players, making it a versatile instrument.

We love this Irish drum because it is not only beautifully crafted but also environmentally friendly. The fact that it is vegan makes it a unique choice for those who prefer sustainable and cruelty-free products. The Arach Dragon Design adds a touch of Celtic flair to the drum, making it visually appealing as well.

The purpose of the Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum – Arach Dragon Design is to provide musicians with an authentic Irish sound. It is carefully handcrafted using vegan materials, including synthetic skin and a sustainably sourced wooden frame.

One of the key features of this drum is its 16″ size, which produces a deep and resonant sound. The synthetic skin is highly responsive, allowing players to achieve a wide range of tones with ease. Additionally, the Arach Dragon Design is intricately hand-painted, adding a unique and visually striking element to the drum.

The overall quality of the Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum – Arach Dragon Design is exceptional. Each drum is meticulously handmade by skilled craftsmen, ensuring attention to detail and a high level of craftsmanship. The vegan materials used in its construction are of excellent quality, resulting in a durable and long-lasting instrument.

Pros:

• Vegan and environmentally friendly materials
• Visually stunning Arach Dragon Design
• Deep and resonant sound
• Suitable for musicians of all skill levels

Cons:

• May require some tuning and adjusting before achieving optimal sound quality

The Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum – Arach Dragon Design is a top choice for anyone seeking an Irish drum with exceptional quality and an authentic sound. Its vegan construction and visually appealing design make it a standout option among other Irish drums. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician, this drum is sure to enhance your Irish music experience.

Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran – Natural Blonde Rim

Specifications:

• Diameter: 18″
• Material: Laminated wood rim with twin crossbar support
• Head: Genuine natural white goatskin
• Tipper: Polished wood
• Authentic look, feel, and sound

Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum

Specifications:

• Diameter: 14″
• Shell Size: 14″ x 6″
• Material: Extra deep hardwood shell
• Dampening Ring: Yes
• Traditional cross bar removed for easy hand pressure application
• Head: Goat skin, tunable with Allen wrench
• Suitable for traditional Celtic and contemporary music styles

Extra Deep Shell Irish Bodhran-NOT Made in China-Goat Skin Head, Brown Burl, 2-Year Warranty, FD14IBO

Specifications:

• Diameter: 14″
• Shell Size: 14″ x 6″
• Material: Extra deep hardwood shell
• Dampening Ring: No information provided
• Cross bar removed for easy hand pressure application
• Head: Goat skin
• Warranty: 2 years

Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum

No specifications provided.

Remo Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head 16 x 4.5 in.

Specifications:

• Diameter: 16″
• Shell Size: 16″ x 4.5″
• Material: Acousticon shell
• Head: Synthetic Bahia Bass drumhead
• Internal tuning system
• Soft attack and deep bass tones
• Comes with hex tuning key and tipper drumstick

Handmade by Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan 16″ Bodhran Hand Drum (Various Options) (Children of Lir)

Specifications:

• Diameter: 16″
• Material: Vegan
• No information provided about shell size or material
• No information provided about head material
• Various design options available

The Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper for Bodhran Irish Drum

No specifications provided.

Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar, 14 x 3.5 Inches

Specifications:

• Diameter: 14″
• Shell Size: 14″ x 3.5″
• Material: Mulberry wood frame with single removable T-bar for hand/wrist support
• Frame cut out for comfort and support
• Adjustable tuning hardware hidden inside frame
• Comes with tipper and tuning wrench

Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum – Arach Dragon Design

Specifications:

• Diameter: 16″
• Material: Vegan
• No information provided about shell size or material
• No information provided about head material
• Arach Dragon design

Please note that not all products have extensive specifications provided.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the review for the eight bodhran drums has provided valuable insights into each product. The Trinity College TB-4 Irish Bodhran stands out with its natural blonde rim, while the Meinl Percussion 14″ Frame Drum offers a unique sound. On the other hand, the Extra Deep Shell Irish Bodhran impresses with its brown burl design and two-year warranty.

For those looking for a quality beater/tipper, the Handmade Dannan Golan Beater/Tipper is highly recommended. The Remo Irish Bodhran Drum with Bahia Bass Head offers a deep sound and durable construction. If you prefer vegan options, the Handmade Dannan Irish Celtic Vegan Bodhran Hand Drum in various designs, such as the Children of Lir design, is an excellent choice.

For a different style of beater/tipper, the Handmade Dannan Feroy Beater/Tipper is recommended. Lastly, the Roosebeck BTN4MT Inside Tunable Bodhran T-Bar delivers versatility with its tunability feature.

Drawbacks

It is important to address some drawbacks found in these products. Some users may feel disappointed that the Extra Deep Shell Irish Bodhran is not made in China. Additionally, the Remo Irish Bodhran Drum may not meet the expectations of those seeking a more traditional sound.

Recommendation

Overall, it is recommended that the Handmade Dannan 16″ Vegan Irish Bodhran Hand Drum – Arach Dragon Design suits a specific audience seeking a distinctive and vegan-friendly bodhran. Its unique design and craftsmanship make it an excellent choice for those who value sustainability and individuality.