Cabasa

A stronger, modern version of the traditional beaded gourd instrument that originated in Africa, the cabasa features a steel ball chain wrapped around a wide cylinder fixed atop a handle. Played by placing one hand over the chain while holding the handle with the other hand and twisting the instrument back and forth, the cabasa creates a metallic, rattling sound. Different sizes will produce different sounds. Larger cabasas deliver louder, brighter tones while smaller cabasas are softer.

X8 Drums offers a variety of cabasas, from more traditional African designs enhanced with more durable materials to the modern versions explained above. Browse our extensive collection, and you’ll even find a foot cabasa that’s perfect for accenting a hand drum. While the cabasa is traditionally played in Latin jazz, this unique hand percussion instrument adds a dynamic layer of sound to various types of music.