Collection: Castanets

Our collection of flamenco castanets.

Flamenco castanets are a percussion musical instrument traditionally used in flamenco and other forms of Spanish music. They are made of hard wood, such as ebony or blackwood, and are shaped like a shell or semicircle.

Each castanet consists of two parts, called "macho" and "female". The "male" is slightly larger and produces a lower sound, while the "female" is smaller and emits a higher sound. Both castanets are held between the thumb and index finger of each hand.

The surface of castanets is decorated with detailed inlays or carvings, which can vary in design and style. These decorations add aesthetic beauty to the instrument and reflect the traditional craftsmanship associated with its manufacture.

The castanets are played by hitting the two parts together. The performer can generate different rhythms and patterns by manipulating and combining the castanets with the fingers, palms of the hands, and movements of the wrists. The resulting sound is distinctive and energetic, and is used to accompany flamenco dancing and other Spanish musical genres.

Flamenco castanets are an essential element in flamenco music and dance, providing a rhythmic and percussive element that complements and enhances the artistic expression of music and dance.