Introducing six African instruments and their places in African culture. Also, details on how they are made and played.
Africa is a vast continent with an immense history
and numerous cultures. As such, there are also a great number of
different instruments throughout the land. This article will introduce
some of the most common ones and their place in African culture.Cabasa
(also known as axatse or shekere) - The cabasa is an African instrument
made from gourd and is covered with seeds or shells. It is played by
striking on the legs and hands in different combinations. Hitting the
top of the instrument produces a deep drum-like tone. Because gourds
are used to make the instruments, and they all differ in shape, no two
cabasas ever produce the same sound. The instrument is used in
folkloric music, particularly by the Yoruba people of Nigeria.