Instruments+of+the+Islands

__ Claves __ are made of rose wood. “Clave” means key. It is the key to keeping the latin ensemble working together.

__ Bongos __ have two drums – one small drum known as the “macho” (male) and the larger known as “hembra” (female).

The __ conga __ is a tall, narrow, single-headed Cuban drum of African origin. A person who plays conga is called a "conguero". Although the African drums were made from hollowed logs, the Cuban conga is staved, like a barrel. Originally, these drums were probably made from old barrels. __ Timbales __ are the equivalent of the “latin” drum set. A cowbell and wood block are often attached just above the set.



__ Maracas __ are usually played in pairs, consisting of a dried [|calabash] or gourd shell or coconut shell filled with a very young one seeds or dried beans. They may also be made of leather, wood, or plastic. Often one maraca is pitched high and the other's low.

The __guiro__ was made from a gourd. It is played by scraping a stick across grooves. It is said to sound like a crow.