rimshaker

A rimshaker is a colloquial term used to describe a type of small, often portable, percussion instrument. Typically, it consists of a ring or hoop, usually made of metal or plastic, around which small objects like beads, jingles, or small bells are attached. The instrument is played by shaking it, causing the attached objects to strike against each other or the rim, producing a rhythmic rattling or jingling sound.

Rimshakers are often found in children's music education and are popular for their simplicity and ease of use. They can be held in one hand and shaken vigorously or gently to create various percussive effects. The size and material of the rim, as well as the type and number of attached sound-making elements, can influence the timbre and volume of the instrument. While not a complex instrument, rimshakers are effective in adding rhythmic texture and engaging young learners in musical activities. They can also be incorporated into broader percussion ensembles or used as handheld sound effects in various musical genres. The term itself is informal and not a universally recognized instrument category in traditional musicology.