Rhythm Works Cabasa, Small

Description

Similar to the shekere, the cabasa is constructed with loops of steel ball chain wrapped around a ridged metal cylinder. The cylinder is fixed to a long, narrow wooden handle. It was originally of African origin, and constructed from dried oval- or pear-shaped gourds with beads strung on the outer surface. It provides a metallic, rattling sound when shaken or twisted, similar to the sound of a rattlesnake. The cabasa is frequently used in music therapy, particularly with individuals who have physical/neurological disabilities as it requires minimal hand movement to produce a sound. The sound produced by the individual can then be reinforced by the music therapist, which builds neurological connections between hand movement and hearing the sound, in turn encouraging more fluent hand movements. Small cabasa constructed of Rosewood.