I’m looking into buying a bodhran for my brother. When I asked him, he expressed an interest in a “deep-shell” styled drum, with a max. of 1 cross bar. I would like to get him as nice an instrument as possible, but I don’t think that I could spend more than $450 or so. Does anyone know what I might be able to find for that sort of money??
I attempted to contact “Metloef” by phone, but the number he had listed on the site was no good. I then e-mailed him, to see if perhaps his number had changed, but have not heard back from him as of yet. Anyone happen to know why??
Also, any info. about good (or bad) personal experiences people may have had with their instruments/instrument-makers would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!
Sincerely,
Michael Barney (Coon-arse piper) 
Hi orbis
Rob Forkner of Metloef has moved to Europe (Belgium I believe) so the Texas phone number is moot.
For $450 you are spoilt for choice - you could get a drum to your brother’s spec from virtually any maker.
If you are thinking of buying an American made drum then the only one (other than Metloef) that I have experience of is Alberto Alfonso
http://www.albertalfonso.com/Home.html
They are nice playing instruments.
If you are looking to widen your search to Europe, then.
Belgarth is the make I usually recommend.
http://www.tradcentre.com/seamus/
An O’Kane drum is also within your price range.
Good luck with your purchase.
David
O’Kane all the way. He made a beautiful, beautiful drum for my twin brother. Great traditional Bodhran sound.
-Sean
You can get a real nice Brendan White for less than that also. And your brother would be right proud also.
Fred