Castanets

Castanets are traditionally hand held with strings that connect them together. This type of performance technique requires a great deal of finger dexterity. Most percussionists opt for castanets mounted on handles. Those manufactured by Epstein and Black Swamp have quality sound and are very easy to use. Machine castanets allow the percussionist to play the castanets by hand or with mallets and can make for quick and easy changes between instruments. Paddle castanets are usually made of plastic and although they can create a satisfactory tremolo effect, are usually less adept at precise rhythmic passages. Quality castanets are usually made of ebony or rosewood.