Roosebeck Tunable Ply Bodhran – 16" x 6" – Black

Designed for players who want rich tone without extra weight, the Roosebeck Tunable Ply Bodhran combines traditional sound with modern construction. The 16-inch natural goat skin head produces a crisp, responsive voice, while the deeper shell adds warmth and power for live performance or session playing.

The lightweight plywood frame is painted black and accented with a black leather band and gold-colored tacks around the rim, giving the drum a clean, classic look onstage or at the session. A comfort cut-out makes the drum easy to hold for extended periods, and the upgraded, low-profile tuning hardware is neatly tucked inside the frame for a smooth, snag-free exterior.

Thanks to the new tuning mechanism, you can easily adjust the head tension with simple thumb screws—no separate tuning wrench required. Whether you are just learning basic jig and reel patterns or you’re an experienced player exploring complex rhythms, this bodhran offers the feel, control, and projection you need. A wooden tipper and owner’s guide are included so you can start playing right out of the box.

The bodhran is the iconic frame drum of Irish traditional music, often described as the “heartbeat” of the session. Historically, simple frame drums were used in rural communities and folk celebrations throughout Ireland. In the mid-20th century, the bodhran was adopted by modern folk groups and quickly became a staple of Celtic music worldwide.

Early bodhrans were fixed-head drums with no tuning system, which made them very sensitive to humidity and temperature. Modern players demanded more control, leading to the development of tunable designs like this Roosebeck model. By combining a traditional goat skin head with an internal, user-friendly tuning system and a deeper, resonant shell, this bodhran captures the classic Celtic sound while offering the stability, comfort, and projection required by today’s performers.

The Roosebeck Tunable Ply Bodhran 16" x 6" in black is a reliable, great-sounding choice for anyone who loves Irish and Celtic music. Its lightweight yet deep shell, responsive goat skin head, and modern internal tuning system create a drum that is both comfortable to play and easy to maintain. Whether you’re buying your first bodhran or adding another workhorse to your collection, this instrument offers excellent value, handsome looks, and the authentic pulse that brings traditional music to life.