The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #11517   Message #406393
Posted By: GUEST,Gary Owens
26-Feb-01 - 08:15 AM
Thread Name: My Bodhran is too tight
Subject: RE: My Bodhran is too thight
Malachy Kearns' wax works well, but whatever you use, playing surface only and try to apply as little as possible per application, playing for a few days in between applications - remember, you can put more on after you play for a few days to see if you got it right, but you CANNOT take it off. You can RUIN a Hran this way.

Most important is WHEN you do this. If you live in a variable climate like I do (Atlantic Canada) and you treat your Hran when it's dry weather, it will be absolutely useless during wet weather. Using a hair dryer or whatever is much more bothersome than having to add a touch of water - by the way, I use a damp cloth in such situations rather than any spraying device. Wait for the wet weather and "tune" it then.

Perhaps the most comforting thing I can offer you is the fact that you are not alone - very few people have a perfect Hran. Years ago, I too went through this dilemma with my first Hran - key word is "first"......

Good luck !!!

g