Rhumba shakers, also known as maracas, are a type of handheld instrument that is usually found in pairs. With an oval-shaped head and a slender handle, they resemble a pair of rattles. They are part of the percussion family of instruments, which is defined as “the striking of one body against another.” The conga, bongo, and timbale are all members of this family of instruments. Maracas are classified as idiophones because they are sealed musical instruments that produce a full, distinct tone.
Maracas are suitable for people of all ages, as they can be played both recreationally and professionally. Maracas are traditionally made from a dried coconut or gourd shell and filled with seeds, small stones, or beans. A variety of gourds are used to make maracas, with the calabash being the most common. The pellets that make the instrument’s sounds are made from the dried seeds found naturally inside these gourds. The shells of more modern maracas may be made of leather, wood, or plastic, thanks to advances in technology. The maracas, however, produce a hollow, untuned sound when shaken, due to pellets striking the insides of the shell.
Maracas are a traditional Moroccan instrument that is now widely used in ethnic music, especially Latin, pop, and classical compositions. It’s particularly common in South American and Caribbean music, such as Brazil and Colombia. Despite their apparent simplicity, maracas require some skill to manipulate. The instruments should be able to play in unison with an orchestra or band, so the maraca player must be able to shake them with timed precision.
A true high-quality pair of maracas requires skilled craftsmen, but a simple model can be made anyone. Seeds, beans, beads, or a combination of these pellets have been suggested as filler for a simple maraca on handicraft websites. The shell can be made out of a pair of plastic cups or paper plates that have been sealed around the edges. When put together, these materials make a pair of portable instruments that are perfect for a spontaneous musical gathering.