I play and teach the bodhran, and i try to instill a bit of courtesy in my learners. Most of them take notice, but some are convinced that they know better. So, what can you do.

All my students know, to be polite, not crowd a session, don't be too loud, blend in with the music and don't monopolise a session. Most of it is common sense.

As for saying that most bodhran people can't play a tune.

What a load of ould clap trap...

I play flute/whistle etc, can diddle a tune etc. As a teacher of the bodhran I have to play music - for my students to practice along with. Or, if I am playing too and demonstrating, then I'll diddle the tune for them to play along with. Essentially, a good bodhran player should know and LEARN the tunes they are playing, it's then that they can be most sensitive to the tune's requirements.

A good bodhran player is lovely to hear. If my students are with me in sessions and get a bit too loud, then I'll give them a discreet whisper.

It's a great instrument, in the right hands...

sorry... don't normally get caught up in the thread doo dahs... but couldn't help mesen