Bodhrans

20-Inch Bodhrán Drum

The 20-inch bodhrán is the largest diameter currently offered by Bridget Drums. Built by hand in Canada, it gives experienced players the option of a large playing surface, substantial tonal presence, and extensive customization. Choose your preferred depth, drumhead, shell, tuning system, colour, and other options to create a bodhrán around your playing requirements. Order your 20-inch bodhrán and request your custom build.

Handmade 20-Inch Bodhrán

A 20-inch bodhrán offers the largest diameter in the Bridget Drums collection. Larger drums generally produce a bigger sound, according to the maker, so the 20-inch diameter is worth considering if you want the tonal presence associated with a larger frame. The larger frame also gives you a generous playing surface. However, physical comfort remains important. Your arm span, playing position, and how the drum sits against your body should all influence your decision.

20-Inch Bodhrán Depth Options

Choose from:
  • 20″ x 4″
  • 20″ x 5″
  • 20″ x 6″
The 6-inch model can also be configured with an arm cutout, which can help smaller players accommodate the larger diameter more comfortably.

A Bodhrán Designed for Long-Term Playing

Bridget Drums uses veneered shell construction because of its strength and stability. Alternating wood grain directions help reduce the potential for warping and provide a stable foundation for the drumhead and tuning system. The drumhead is available in natural or chemically treated goat skin. Natural skin provides a traditional option that develops over time. Chemically treated skin offers a shorter break-in period along with improved humidity and tear resistance.

Professional Tuning System

The tuning system is an important component of a large bodhrán. Bridget Drums uses aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and low weight. The drums can also be fitted with CAM tuners, which Bridget describes as unique to its instruments. This gives players greater control over drumhead tension and helps maintain the instrument as playing and environmental conditions change.

Rounded Bearing Edge for the Drumhead

The bearing edge is another important construction detail. Bridget Drums uses a rounded bearing edge designed to be gentler on the goat skin than a sharper chamfered edge. The company also associates the rounded edge with a warmer sound.

Customize Your 20-Inch Bodhrán

Available configuration options include:
  • 4″, 5″, or 6″ depth
  • Natural or chemically treated goat skin
  • Shell and veneer options
  • Custom head colour
  • CAM tuners
  • Stability bar options
  • Tuning lug choices
  • Banding
  • Arm cutout on eligible 6″ configurations
  • Other custom requirements
If you are investing in a large handmade bodhrán, discuss your preferred setup with Bridget Drums before ordering.

Who Should Choose a 20-Inch Bodhrán?

A 20-inch bodhrán may suit players who specifically want:
  • The largest diameter available from Bridget Drums
  • A generous playing surface
  • The tonal presence associated with a larger drum
  • A handmade professional instrument
  • Extensive configuration options
  • A custom instrument built around their playing style
Because of its size, comfort should be a major consideration. A larger drum is not automatically the right choice for every musician.

20-Inch Bodhrán Specifications

 
Diameter 20 inches
Available depths 4″, 5″, and 6″
Drumhead Natural or chemically treated goat skin
Tuning Aircraft-grade aluminum tuning system
Tuning system CAM tuners available
Shell Veneered construction
Bearing edge Rounded
Construction Made in Canada
Shipping Worldwide
 
Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The 20-inch diameter is the largest bodhrán size currently listed in the Bridget Drums range.

The 20-inch model is available in 4", 5", and 6" depths.

Yes. Bridget Drums lists the arm cutout as included in the price for 6-inch-deep drums, making it an option for players who want a larger drum while considering playing comfort.

Bridget Drums states that larger drums generally produce a bigger sound. However, the final sound also depends on the drumhead, shell, depth, tuning, tipper, and playing technique.

Yes. Bridget Drums offers multiple options for drumhead, shell, colour, tuning, stability bar, banding, and other specifications.

The instruments are handmade in Canada. Bridget Drums was founded in 1996 by Russell Duke, combining cabinet-making experience with a lifelong interest in drums and rhythm.

Ready for a large handmade Irish drum? Contact Bridget Drums to discuss your 20-inch bodhrán configuration.