Trad Instruments from the Homeland

As I'm sure you are aware, we are a proud independant Irish music shop and we absolutely revel in catering to musicians of all styles and sounds.

But there's no ignoring the heritage.

Ireland is absolutely dripping in musical traditions that date back millennia so I figured it prudent that we take a wee look at some of the requisite tools of the trade.

But first, a poem.

In the heart of the Emerald Isle's verdant land,

Where the shamrocks dance to a fiddler's hand,

A melody weaves through the ancient air,

In independent shops with utmost care.

Bodhráns hang with pride upon the wall,

Crafted by hands that heed the ancient call.

Wood and skin in perfect unity,

An Irish rhythm, a soulful symphony.

In quaint boutiques, the tin whistle gleams,

Its sweet notes echo through Celtic dreams.

Crafted in workshops with a master's skill,

Each breath a story, each note a thrill.

Fiddles and flutes, in harmony they meet,

In the hands of musicians, melodies sweet.

Independent stores, a treasure trove,

Where Irish traditions and passions rove.

Concertinas and accordions play,

Their tunes alive in the Irish day.

Strings and reeds in harmonious accord,

Echoing tales that Celtic bards record.

In these shops, tradition is revered,

Where independent spirit has persevered.

A bodhrán's heartbeat, a whistle's call,

Irish music, cherished by one and all.

So, support the shops where tradition thrives,

Where Irish music in each instrument survives.

In every note, in every handmade part,

Lies the essence of Ireland's beating heart.

Okay so, buckle up and let's see what we have......

Traditional Irish Wooden Bones - Cocuswood

Bones might be one of the oldest percussion instruments on earth. Traditional Irish music bones are a rhythmic and percussive instrument deeply woven into the fabric of Irish folk music. Crafted from wood, these narrow, curved sticks produce sharp, resonant sounds when struck together. Their simple yet versatile design allows musicians to add lively percussive elements to traditional Irish tunes, enhancing the rhythm and energy of the performance. They're wildly affordable and fit in your pocket. What's not to love.

Koda Bodhran 14" x 5" Black/Plain Tuneable With Bag And Beater

The Irish bodhrán, a heartbeat in the rhythm of Celtic traditions, is a wonderful frame drum steeped in cultural heritage. Crafted with a circular wooden frame and usually a goatskin head, the bodhrán's timeless design produces warm, earthy tones that echo through the ages. Played with a tipper or beater, the bodhrán's versatile voice ranges from gentle whispers to thunderous beats, enhancing the melodies of Irish folk music. The bodhrán weaves its rhythmic tales, inviting musicians to embrace the spirit of Ireland and connect with its musical soul. 

This Bodhran features a solid 14″ frame with taped edges and authentic goatskin. Package comes complete with dual headed beater and a fitted bag. Koda Bodhráns are a great selection of traditionally  and professionally crafted Irish instruments.

Feadog Nickel D Whistle & Book Pack

The Irish tin whistle, a petite yet powerful instrument, is dripping with traditional charm. Crafted simply, this slender tube of metal produces impressively sweet, crystalline tones. With its distinctively haunting sound, the tin whistle transports listeners to the misty landscapes of Ireland, conjuring images of rolling green hills and ancient storytelling. The Irish tin whistle is a cherished companion, guiding players through the rich tapestry of Irish musical heritage and inviting all who listen to join in the joyful celebration of Irish melodies.

A wonderful starter pack that contains a Feadóg Nickel tin whistle is the key of D, and a comprehensive Tutor Book to get you started. Using a step by step approach with music notation and fingering, it includes a selection of favourite songs and dance airs.

Clareen Banjos - The Bridge Banjo with Case

The banjo holds a significant place in Irish music, weaving its distinctive voice into the rich tapestry of traditional tunes. With its roots tracing back to the introduction of the instrument by African slaves in the United States, the banjo found a new home in the heart of Irish folk music. Adopted and adapted over the years, the Irish tenor banjo, characterised by its shorter neck and unique tuning, contributes a bright, percussive quality to jigs, reels, and folk ballads. The banjo, with its distinctive twang, adds a layer of spirited energy to the storytelling nature of Irish tunes, making it an indispensable player in the melodic conversations that echo through the hills and pubs of Ireland.

The Bridge Banjo is the ideal beginner banjo for someone looking to learn traditional Irish music. The Bridge is made exclusively for Clareen Banjos and is professionally set up by Clareen in our workshop in Galway. We take great care to get the best tone and provide easy playability to eager beginners. The result is an excellent value, player-friendly banjo for both children and adults with a vibrant tone.

Clareen Banjos - The Bridge Mandolin with Case

The mandolin, is a fairly newly cherished member of the Irish musical ensemble, but plays a pivotal role in the rich tapestry of traditional Irish music. Its bright, crisp tones and nimble articulation contribute to the lively and dynamic nature of Irish tunes. As a versatile instrument, the mandolin seamlessly weaves intricate melodies and harmonies, adding a layer of ornamentation that enhances the overall sound immeasurably.

The Bridge Mandolin is the ideal beginner A style mandolin with an oval sound hole. It is made exclusively for Clareen Banjos and is professionally set up by us in our workshop in Galway. We take great care to get the best tone and provide easy playability to eager beginners. The result is an excellent value, player-friendly mandolin for both children and adults with a smooth tone.

Stentor Student 1 4/4 Violin Pack - Or a Fiddle as it's called here.......

The fiddle, a truly famous member of the Irish musical family, is often the heart of traditional Irish music, weaving tales of history and emotion through its melodic strains. With its roots firmly embedded in the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, the fiddle is a storyteller, conveying the essence of the land, its people, and their triumphs and tribulations. Its versatile and expressive nature allows it to dance joyfully through lively jigs and reels or tug at the heartstrings with soulful airs. As a centrepiece in Irish sessions and gatherings, the fiddle is a communal force, bringing musicians and listeners together in the timeless celebration of a musical tradition that transcends generations. 

This Stentor Violin features carved solid spruce top, solid maple back and sides, inlaid purfling, maple fingerboard, paurosa pegs and chin rest, Red Label strings, alloy tailpiece with four string adjusters, nylon tailpiece loop. Polished brown lacquer finish.

Stentor Conservatoire Violin Outfit 4/4