Bodhrán - Frank Torpey
Learn to play the bodhran with this tutorial. Instruction is provided by tutor Frank Torpey. Video and audio files combine with music notation, text and photos to make the learning process as easy as possible.
Frank Torpey is a founding member of the group Nomos. He has been Bodhrán Tutor at University College Cork since 1992 and has taught widely in Ireland, the United States and Europe.
The tutorial caters for all levels from the absolute beginner to very advanced players. The bodhran tutorial also includes a performance piece and an interview with the tutor.
Beginners
In the beginners' section Frank demonstrates the basic skills necessary to get you started on the Bodhrán. Simple rhythmic patterns for jigs and reels are then introduced. These patterns are demonstrated on video at a slow pace and they are then used to accompany tunes played at a medium pace so that you can play along.
Topics Covered:
- Pop-up Videos
- Reading Music
- Holding the Drum and Stick
- Concise Wrist Technique
- Simple Jig and Reel Patterns
- Triplets
- Producing Tones with the Left Hand
- Tones and Triplets in Reel Time
- Tones and Triplets in Jig Time
- How to Establish a Motor Rhythm
Advanced
The advanced section features characteristic techniques of Frank's innovative style. These techniques, once learned, will give you the skills necessary to develop your own personal sound.
Topics Covered:
- Motor Rhythms
- Additional Triplets
- Rolls
- "Swing" Rhythms
- Syncopation
- Fluid Tonal Movement
These tutorials are brought to you by Trad Irish Music in cooperation with Mad For Trad.
