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Kayamba

The kayamba is a Kenyan mat or raft rattle used to accompany songs and dances. It is made from reeds bound together to make two rafts that are then bound with seeds or small beads put between. It is held cradled in the fingers of both hands and flung back and forth so the thumbs can beat out accents on the flat of the rattle. The kayamba has become a popular rattle in the West and is available in many sizes. A similar instrument is found in Tanzania.


Country: Kanya
Region: Africa
Type: percussion
Kayamba - Kanyan mat or raft rattle
Kayamba
©  R. Raine-Reusch, May 2002