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 a horse, mule, or donkey, this instrument is a member of the idiophone family, which means it produces sound through the vibration of its own material. The quijada maintains its original teeth intact, and it is these teeth that help produce its distinct rattling sound. This simple yet powerful instrument has played a significant role in the music of Cuba, Peru, and other Latin American countries.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The quijada is more than just a percussion instrument—it is a direct link to the animistic and spiritual beliefs of African cultures. In many African traditions, bones, especially jawbones, were believed to hold mystical powers related to speech and communication. This belief carried over to Afro-Cuban communities, where the quijada became a vital part of music used in both religious rites and festive occasions.
While its origins can be traced back to Afro-Cuban music, the quijada also has deep roots in Peru, where it is widely used in traditional music. Other Latin American countries, such as Honduras and Costa Rica, also incorporate the quijada into their musical practices, often pairing it with the marimba to create a rhythmic foundation. Despite its humble appearance, the quijada is a versatile instrument that transcends borders and musical genres.
How the Quijada is Played
There are several ways to play the quijada, each producing a different sonic texture:
- Shaking: One of the simplest methods involves shaking the quijada like a maraca. The loose teeth, still embedded in the bone, rattle within their sockets to create a sound similar to a large, hollowed-out gourd instrument like the güiro.
- Striking: A more direct method involves hitting one of the free ends of the jaw with a fist. This method causes the teeth to collide, producing a sharp percussive sound. Musicians often use this technique to accentuate specific rhythms in the music.
- Scraping: The most unique and recognizable way to play the quijada involves scraping the teeth with a stick or wire. This action creates a continuous rhythmic scraping sound that gives the instrument its characteristic voice. Some musicians prefer to use an umbrella wire, which adds a metallic sharpness to the sound, though this is not always necessary.
An interesting distinction between regions is how the quijada is used. In Cuba, it typically plays more of an accent or “slap” on the first beat of a measure, adding an effect that punctuates the rhythm. However, in Peru and other South American countries, where there are fewer scraped instruments, the quijada takes on a more prominent role, similar to a güiro, providing continuous rhythmic texture throughout the piece. This regional variation highlights the instrument’s adaptability and how it has been embraced differently across Latin America.
Evolution and Modern Use
Historically, the quijada has been used for centuries in various forms of Afro-Cuban music. Its presence in Cuba is documented as far back as the colonial era, where it was used in religious music and festivities. The instrument’s rattling, bone-on-bone sound was thought to communicate with the spiritual world, evoking ancestral spirits and gods. Even today, some musicians and practitioners use the quijada in sacred rites and ceremonies, preserving its spiritual and cultural significance.
Over time, however, the quijada has also become a staple in popular music. It is frequently used in large orchestras, not only in Cuba but also throughout Latin America. While other instruments like the guayo or maracas may have overshadowed the quijada in modern music, it remains a fascinating instrument, often showcased for its exotic sound and historical value.
In the 20th century, its use expanded to jazz and popular music. Musicians began experimenting with the quijada, incorporating its sound into modern orchestral pieces. Some versions of the quijada even come equipped with small bells, blending its traditional sound with other percussive elements to create a richer, more layered effect.
The Symbolism of the Jawbone
The quijada is not merely a musical instrument; it symbolizes the connection between life and death. In African and Afro-Cuban spiritual traditions, bones, especially jawbones, are seen as vessels of the soul’s power, capable of speech even after death. This belief persists in Cuban folklore, where the quijada is often described as “talking” through its unique rattling sound.
Some musicologists believe that the choice of a jawbone is no coincidence. It represents the human capacity for language and communication, transcending the boundary between life and death. The teeth, which once aided in speech and eating, now produce music, becoming a literal mouthpiece for the spirits. In many Afro-Cuban and Latin American rituals, the quijada is believed to communicate with ancestors, gods, and other spirits, making it an essential part of religious ceremonies.
Conclusion
Though simple in design, the quijada holds a profound place in Afro-Cuban music. Its raw, organic sound, produced by nothing more than bone and teeth, adds a primitive yet captivating element to any performance. Whether in traditional religious ceremonies or modern jazz ensembles, the quijada remains a vital instrument that bridges the gap between past and present, life and death.
As Cuban, Peruvian, and other Latin American music traditions continue to evolve, the quijada endures as a reminder of the deep spiritual and cultural connections that have shaped the rhythms of the New World.
See the examples below.
Music Notation
