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Unusual percussion instruments to create rhythm with friends

By msanger

Without even thinking about it, our fingers go tap, tap, tap, tap with the beat of a catchy tune. Rhythm is all around us. It keeps songs moving along, connects us to the beat, and brings music to life. Rhythm is a pattern in time that is felt by all. Music can not exist without rhythm, but rhythm can exist on its own. Rhythm is a universal language, much like a smile, and fulfills our innate desire to be in harmony with others and the world around us. 

Wouldn’t it be fun to gather together a group of close friends, give each person an unusual percussion instrument, and watch as the rhythm brings sound to life? We have compiled a list of unique noise-making items and hope that you will be inspired to create your own music using one or more.

What on earth is a güiro? We promise it is exceedingly different than a gyro even though both sound similar and have equally confusing pronunciations. Lunch aside, a güiro (pronounced É¡wiɾo) is a percussion instrument that resembles a hollow gourd with parallel grooves carved on the side, and is played by dragging a mallet along the grooves. This modern take on a güiro is made from wood, has two (rather than one) hollow barrels, and a handle making it comfortable to play.
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The agogô is an instrument that is comprised of one or more bells linked together by a steel frame. Each of the bells has a unique sound depending on its size, and the bells are arranged with the smallest bell nearest the top. To play the agogô, you simply strike the bells with a wooden stick which creates a sound similar to that of a cowbell. You will have so much fun experimenting with this unique instrument.
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Maracas are handheld percussion instruments, and, like drums, can be used to keep track of the beat. It’s as simple as a shake shake shake to create sound, so even kids can join in on the fun. Maracas were originally made from hollowed-out, dried gourds that were filled with tiny pebbles or dried beans. These days they are also made from plastic like this set which has plastic heads and wooden handles.
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Musical triangles fall into the percussion genre as well. They are played by striking the instrument with a small steel rod. One corner is left open in order to prevent the triangle from having a definite pitch. An instrument that is unpitched is most often used to maintain the rhythm of the piece being played. This lightweight triangle produces a delightful sound making it a wonderful addition to your percussion collection. As an added bonus, both the triangle and the striker have rubber handles making them comfortable to use.
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Fun fact: cowbells that we use to make music are similar to the bells farmers placed on their cows so as to know their location. They even went as far as to assign different sized bells to different cows, thus being able to differentiate between them. Over time, the cowbell morphed into a musical instrument and is still used today. (Think “more cowbell” in that famous Saturday Night Live skit.) This set is a fantastic addition to any drum set! It includes five various-sized cowbells that each produce their own unique sound. It is so easy to assemble and comes with an adjustable stand.
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Some of the best moments of your life can happen when you and a few friends let go of your inhibitions and allow music to take you where it will. The bonds and memories you make will last a lifetime. Rhythm gives us motion and connects us to the people and music we love. What could be better than sharing moments like this with your best friends?

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