The Instruments That Carry the Flame
Shpin us a tune there boss.
Traditional Irish music isn’t something you learn the theory of and then forget about.
It’s something that lives. It’s passed hand to hand, ear to ear, session to session. It changes slightly every time it’s played, yet somehow remains timeless.
In a world that moves fast and forgets easily, trad music reminds us who we are. It brings people together around kitchen tables, pub corners, parish halls and festival fields. And at the heart of it all are the instruments — simple, honest tools that carry centuries of melody, rhythm and story.
Here are some of the instruments we love most for keeping Irish traditional music thriving, accessible and joyful — whether you’re starting out or carrying the torch onward.
Feadóg Tin Whistles – Small Instrument, Big Soul
Few instruments are as deeply woven into Irish music as the tin whistle. The Feadóg whistle, in particular, is a rite of passage. Affordable, portable and instantly recognisable, it’s often the first trad instrument someone ever picks up — and for many, it becomes a lifelong companion.
Bright, lively and expressive, the Feadóg is perfect for reels, jigs, slow airs and everything in between. It rewards good breath control and ornamentation, making it deceptively simple and endlessly deep. A true cornerstone of Irish traditional music.
It's a tiny thing with a huge attitude. Feadog Whistles.
Stagg M40s Bluegrass Mandolin – That Cutting Session Bite
The mandolin has earned its place in modern trad sessions thanks to its punchy attack and ability to cut through a busy room. The Stagg M40s Bluegrass Mandolin delivers exactly that — crisp trebles, woody warmth and plenty of rhythmic drive.
It’s a brilliant option for players who want to add sparkle and percussive energy to sessions, backing reels and polkas with authority while still singing sweetly on melodies.
Pop into Musicmaker for a blast of the Stagg M40s Mandolin today!
Gold Tone AC-1 Open Back Banjo – Tradition Without Intimidation
The banjo is a powerhouse of Irish trad, but it can feel intimidating to approach. That’s where the Gold Tone AC-1 5-String Open Back Banjo shines.
Lightweight, comfortable and approachable, the AC-1 delivers that unmistakable open-back banjo sound — bright, rhythmic and lively — without unnecessary complexity. It’s ideal for beginners and experienced players alike, and the included gig bag makes it a session-ready companion from day one.
Lightweight and hugely accessible - get on the Gold Tone AC-1 Immediately!
Stentor Violin / Fiddle Outfits – Where the Tunes Truly Live
At the centre of Irish traditional music sits the fiddle. The Stentor Violin and Fiddle Outfits are trusted by teachers, students and session players across Ireland for good reason.
Balanced, warm and responsive, these instruments allow the tunes to breathe — from fiery reels to haunting slow airs. Available in a range of sizes, they’re perfect for learners young and old, helping ensure the next generation of fiddlers is never far away.
Browse the various sizes and style HERE.
Everything you need to command a session. Grab the Stentor Fiddle Outfit in Musicmaker now.
Koda Wooden Spoons & Traditional Irish Bones – Rhythm From the Hands
Trad music doesn’t always start with strings or reeds. Sometimes, it starts with rhythm — pure, physical, joyful rhythm.
Koda Wooden Traditional Spoons (Beechwood) are wonderfully tactile, delivering that unmistakable clack and groove that lifts a session instantly. Easy to learn, hard to put down, and guaranteed to raise smiles.
Likewise, Traditional Irish Wooden Bones (Cocuswood) offer sharp, articulate percussion that dances around the tunes rather than overpowering them. These instruments remind us that trad music belongs to everyone — no barrier, no fuss, just rhythm and feel.
The Shpoons and the Bones Bai! Geyup!
Koda Bodhrán 14" x 5" Tuneable – The Heartbeat of the Session
No trad ensemble is complete without the bodhrán. The Koda 14" x 5" Tuneable Bodhrán, complete with bag and beater, delivers the deep pulse that drives Irish music forward.
With tuneable tension for different environments and playing styles, this bodhrán offers flexibility without sacrificing tradition. Whether you’re anchoring a session or adding subtle lift, it’s a powerful, expressive instrument — and a joy to play.
Keep the session grounded with a traditional Koda bodhrán from Musicmaker.
Why These Instruments Matter
Keeping traditional Irish music alive isn’t about freezing it in time. It’s about participation. About making the music accessible, welcoming and fun. These instruments are affordable, durable and full of character — perfect for learners, families, session players and lifelong musicians.
They invite people in. They start conversations. They create moments.
And that’s how traditions survive.
Play It Forward
Every tune played keeps the music alive.
Every instrument picked up adds another voice to the story.
Whether it’s a whistle in a school bag, a fiddle at the fireside, a bodhrán at the back of the pub or spoons tapping along at the kitchen table — Irish traditional music lives because people choose to play it.
And long may that continue.
Got any questions about these instruments? About other instruments? About the Instruments of our Destruction?
Get in touch via the Intercom button below, we are always happy to help out.
