cabasa

The cabasa is a hand percussion instrument in the percussion family. It consists of a short cylindrical shell, usually made of wood or plastic, wrapped with a network of small beads or chain around its exterior. The cylinder is mounted on a handle, allowing the player to grip it and rotate the cylinder with the wrist.

Playing technique involves holding the handle and rotating the cylinder to move the beads around the surface, producing a metallic, rattling texture. The free hand can rub the surface to vary tone, and tapping the instrument can add a sharper attack. The speed, pressure, and direction of rotation control the timbre and volume.

Tone and use: The cabasa produces a bright, metallic rattling sound with a dry, crisp attack. It is commonly used in Latin music and Afro-C Cuban styles, as well as jazz and world music. In ensembles, it often serves to add texture and rhythmic drive alongside drums, congas, timbales, and other percussion.

Variations and construction: Common variants include different cylinder sizes and bead configurations. Some versions have multiple rows of beads, or use nylon or metal beads instead of chain. The instrument is classified as an idiophone, specifically a cylindrical rattle, and is widely manufactured by percussion brands for both professional and educational use.