Bones & Spoons

Historically, these ancient rhythm instruments have been associated with Irish music, however many people are finding out how well they fill the rhythm section of almost any type of music.

Ebony Bones | Rosewood Rhythm Spoons | Bodhran, Bones and Spoons DVD |

Walton's Session Rosewood Bones

8" Rosewood Bones. Bones are rhythmic instruments, held two (or more) in each hand, and made to strike each other to make snapping and rolling sounds. There is a certain knack to playing the bones that intreagues players and can be an endless source of fun.

The name is derived from their original composition and nomenclature, bones. Originally rib bones of animals were used since their size and shape fit the need desired. For different sounds, tones and conveniences other materials, particularly wood are used.

It's difficult to describe all of the patterns you can master with the bones. You will find many patterns and beats on your own, which is in itself is part of the fun. Like many people, you'll find playing the bones to be almost therpeutic as you concentrate to control the delicate finger pressure necessary to "rattle" the bones in time with the music. An essential addition to any bodhran player's carry case.

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Rosewood Session Spoons

From Waltons Music Ireland. Historically, this ancient rhythm instrument has been associated with Irish music, however many people are finding out how well they fill the rhythm section of almost any type of music. An essential addition to any bodhran player's carry case.

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Bodhran, Bones & Spoons - Instructional DVD

Ireland's greatest Bodhran player, Tommy Hayes, who is featured on many Irish recordings, T.V. shows and films, including In The Name of the Father, shares his lifetime skills with you. In this DVD he shows various techniques, handstyles, rolls, strokes and many other skills used in playing the bodhran, bones, and spoons. Overall Difficulty: Beginning-Intermediate

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The Bodhran Book

An easy-to-understand beginner's method by Míchaél O'Súilleabháin, illustrating how to play the bodhran. Shows the different regional styles and techniques. The book describes the construction of the bodhran and its uses. Using several diagrams and musical notation, the book explains the different styles of bodhran playing and rhythm patterns.

The Bodhran - Contents: Chapter 1: The Bodhran - An Irish Frame Drum. Chapter 2: Playing the Bodhran / Following the tune / The different styles / The double-ended stick style / A note for music readers / Random play / The double-down stroke / The double-jig. Chapter 3: Other Playing Methods / Single-ended stick style / Playing on the rim / The hand style / The thumb roll. Chapter 4: Contemporary Developments / The rim-shot / Rhythms / Using the left hand / Synchronisation