Maracas

About Maracas

Maracas are a common feature of Caribbean and Latin music, and can be constructed from a variety of materials to create different sounds and responses. Whilst they were traditionally made from gourd shells and filled with seeds, most modern day maracas are made of either fibre, wood, or plastic.

Often played as a pair, maracas are used to add rhythm to a piece of music and have been adopted by many genres of music, includng pop and rock. Originating in Latin America, maracas were first used by indigenous tribes, being made from the fruit of a higuera tree that had been hollowed out.

In the ensuing years, maracas have been prominently used by some of the most-famous names in music, including John Bonham, Roger Taylor and Mick jagger. Various brands are renowned for their quality maracas, including Latin Percussion and Natal.

Maracas are typically painted brightly, with many being hand-painted for aesthetic appearance during performances. They also come in a range of different sizes, making them accessible to musicians of all ages and abilities.

FAQs

Where do maracas originate from?

Maracas originate from Latin America. They were originally used as rattles and incorporated into tribal dances and rituals of healing.

What are maracas used for?

Maracas are used to provide rhythm and fill space within a piece of music. Although commonly used in the Caribbean and Latin genres, maracas can also be found in more mainstream genres such as rock and pop

Who is famous for playing the maracas?

John Bonham, Roger Taylor and Mick Jagger are all famous for incorporating maracas into their set-up. Maracas are seen as both an aesthetic statement and also used as a way to add different textures to popular music.