Instruments

The Ekón and Its Relatives: Iron, Rhythm, and Sacred Power in Afro-Cuban Music

Among the many instruments that shape the distinctive sound of Cuban music, few carry as much historical and ritual weight as the ekón: a clapper-less...

The Maruga: Afro-Cuban Metal Shaker and Chachá

An Afro-Cuban Shaker and Its Caribbean Variants When we think of Afro-Cuban percussion, instruments like the conga, bongó, and maracas immediately come to mind. But...

The Guayo: A Unique Afro-Cuban Instrument with Deep Roots

The guayo, a humble yet vital percussion instrument in Cuban music, has a rich history that intertwines with Afro-Cuban traditions. Classified as a “vascular scraper...

What is a Tres Cubano? Construction & History of Cuban Tres

What is a Tres Cubano? The typical tres cubano is a mango shaped instrument of the guitar family which evolved in Cuba. Commonly it is...

The Quijada: Afro-Cuban Jawbone Percussion Instrument

The quijada, or jawbone, is an iconic Afro-Cuban percussion instrument with a unique sound and an ancient history. Traditionally made from the lower jawbone of...