Rainsticks

Rainsticks are unique pieces of percussion that deliver calming sounds for a variety of playing applications. They are known for their colourful appearance and deep-rooted history.

At Gear4music, we stock a wide range of rainsticks suitable for all playing abilities, featuring popular brands such as Meinl, Nino, and Pearl. Browse by size and design to find the best rainstick for you.

About Rainsticks

Rainsticks are believed to have been invented in south-central Chile and southwestern Argentina, with the purpose of summoning rainstorms. Originally made from dried-out cacti and filled with small pebbles, rice, and dried beans, they produce a high-pitched rainfall sound. Most modern rainsticks are made from bamboo or synthetic materials and feature colourful designs to represent their origins.

Rainsticks are perfect for a variety of musical abilities, from beginners looking to create exciting and interesting tones, to professional players looking for something different. Rainsticks are available in various different sizes, spanning from around 16 inches up to 59 inches in length.

As the name would suggest, rainsticks provide tones that replicate the sound of falling rain and can be used to deliver this unique effect. Specifically, the use of rainsticks in ASMR can be extremely beneficial as the tones they create are very representative of true rainfall. However, some percussionists also use rainsticks as a shaker.

In a modern musical setting, rainsticks are typically used to create a relaxing sound. This makes them perfect for meditation applications and sound therapy. Rainsticks are played by either being turned on their side and used as a shaker, or turned vertically to let all the seeds and beads inside the stick trickle down to the opposite end.

FAQs

What is the purpose of rainsticks ?

Rainsticks were originally used to enhance rainfall in south-central Chile and southwestern Argentina, where they were invented. Now, they are typically used as a percussion instrument or for sound therapy.

Is a rainstick a percussion instrument?

The rainstick is a percussion instrument and is used by most players as a shaker. Although the rainstick can be used as a musical instrument, it is also used to create sound effects due to its unique rain-like sound.

What ages are rain sticks for ?

There is no set age for rainsticks; they can suit young musicians and fully-grown professionals alike. Early years rainsticks tend to be made from colourful plastic, whereas professional quality rainsticks are usually constructed from bamboo or synthetic materials.