The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #56320 Message #3485764
Posted By: GUEST,Lavengro
03-Mar-13 - 06:57 AM
Thread Name: Bodhran
Subject: RE: Bodhran
At the end of the 90's John Joe totally changed the way I play bodhrán after I saw him playing. And as Tattie Bogle says a nice guy.
He lead the way for a lot of players to not accept what they previously thought were the limitations of their instrument. Whenever I hear someone telling jokes about bodhrán players, and when that joking is done with a serious edge, I always just think "Oh well, you've never met a decent player, and are ignorant of what the instrument can add." There is a sliding scale of ability on the bodhrán the same as any other instrument.
There is a lot of mystique and (IMO) nonsense talked about the bodhrán, it is after all just a drum, regardless of origin and mythology. I personally have played with Folk, Bluegrass, Blues and Cajun bands on bodhrán and it has worked with them all. Because it is just a drum.
And just to finish off Flook (contrary to popular belief) still get together for the occasional gig. Keep an eye out and don't miss the opportunity. Saw them again a few months back and a group of four better musicians you will not find! I do like Gnu's sarcastic observation though; made me laugh!