Afuche and Cabasas Instruments
Sometimes the simplest handheld percussion instruments are the most effective, and the cabasa is a perfect example. The first cabasas were made by stringing beads on the outside of a gourd, and you can still find some traditional models like that in this section. Even more common now is the metal cabasa, which was first created by Martin Cohen. His original model is represented here in the LP LP234A Standard Wood Afuche/Cabasa, and it's been joined by a larger version as well as lots of cabasas from other makers. Not sure where to begin? Start by checking out the top sellers and go from there - it never hurts to follow the lead of other percussionists.
Interestingly, one of the top choices in this section isn't even held in the hand at all. The Meinl Foot Cabasa defies tradition by being controlled with a foot pedal. That gives you the flexibility to include its signature rattlesnake sound in any drum setup, from a rock or jazz set on the stage to a rhythm accent for your congas and other drums. Plus, the cabasa mounted on this pedal is the Meinl Turbo Cabasa, which is specially designed to boost volume so it can make itself heard even in the midst of a band.
On the other hand, maybe you're looking for the opposite: a cabasa that's smaller and softer than the standard types. For that, check out the LP LP234 Mini Plastic Afuche/Cabasa and the RhythmTech Piccolo Cabasa. Do you find the sound of a metal cabasa a bit too harsh? In that case, your best bet is probably to go with a traditional instrument like the LP LP480 Traditional Cabasa or the Meinl Fiberglass Cabasa.
There's a lot more to percussion than drums alone, and handheld instruments have some of the most unique sounds around. On top of that, they're also a whole lot of fun to play. So if you're a percussionist looking to broaden your horizons or even a music teacher searching for something your students will love, the cabasas in this section are more than ready to help you out.
