23. Sean O'Riada, a prime driver of traditional Irish music in the mid-20th century, was influential in bringing which traditional Celtic instrument to the fore?
From Quiz Thoroughly Modern Traditional
Answer:
Bodhran
Traditional Irish music was built around a mixture of ballads, laments and good old drinking songs. The music, itself, was made up of hornpipes, reels and jigs. To deliver the music a range of instruments were used. The accordion and the concertina were fairly common, as was the Irish fiddle, an instrument that had been played constantly since the 8th century. The bagpipes, which are commonly associated with Scotland, also have a long history in the Irish music scene.
The bodhran is a circular framed drum, which Irish Music magazine editor Ronan Nola claims evolved from the tambourine during the mid-19th century. That said, the name has been seen in English documents that go as far back as the 17th century. On the other hand, the name bodhran means "drum", so it could have been any shape and this is not proof that the earlier mentions resemble the instrument that Nola proclaims. One of the points that Nola also puts forth as proof is that there is a distinct lack of notable Irish drummers recorded during those days.
Sean O'Riada was an Irish composer who sought to revive traditional Irish music. To this end, his works married both traditional Irish music with modern sounds. He became a household name during the 1960s with his endeavours with the band known as Ceoltoir Chualann, a traditionalist music ensemble that included some members who would later form the formidable band, the Chieftains. Their collaborations were sparse but bright in texture, with an emphasis on traditional instruments. Whilst he also played the harpsichord, it was the bodhran that he felt was a vital piece and, as a result, he would play the instrument while holding centre stage.
Sadly, O'Riada passed away in 1970 at the tender age of forty, however, his passion had inspired a new wave in roots revival and the bodhran became a vital instrument for acts such as Robin Morton in The Boys of Lough, Christy Moore in Planxty and Johnny McDonough from De Dannan.
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