Timbales

Timbales are a pair of metal shelled drums with the small drum played on the right side (opposite of most other drums from this region) and are played with sticks. Most timbales have cow bells and wood blocks mounted just above the drums. Players will often play on the shells of the drums and will use frequent rim shots on the higher drum to punctuate sections of the music or add variety to the sound. Rim shots on the lower drum should be avoided. These drums were derived from European timpani that were used in early charangas, a specific style of instrumentation, consisting of rhythm section, strings, and a flute which interpreted the Cuban danzón.