Asalato

$10.00$14.00

In stock

  • simple hand shaker from Ghana
  • choose from three sizes
  • listed per piece (one hand)
SKU: asalato Categories: , Tag:

Description

A small maraca type shaker called asalato (a-sla-to) in Ghana, where we import from, it is a simple musical instrument played throughout Africa. Two small shells from the oncoba spinosa tree are filled with seeds and attached to both ends of a flexible cord. In playing, one of the pods is held in the palm with the cord going between the first and middle fingers, the other pod is flipped around and caught with the little finger. It makes a clacking sound when the two pods contact and a shake sound (more natural than western plastic “egg shakers”) when shaken.

Known by a number of other names including; kosika, kashaka, televi, two ball on a string, african egg shaker, etc., The simplicity of this instrument can be deceiving when in both hands of a skilled player. Check this VIDEO showing Marwan Morgabi from Ghana demonstrating his techniques at Motherland Music.

The large size asalato produces more sound than the small and medium size ones and requires extra skill in handling, especially when performing complicated techniques

The medium asalato is perfect size for an average size person who want to start learning how to play, it is easier to hold and manipulate than the larger size ones so the learning curve is faster

The small size televi is easily played by all persons and well fitted for those with a smaller hand size.

When multiple asalatos are ordered we will do our best to match pairs to similar sizes.

Additional information

Weight 1 lbs
Dimensions 3 × 3 × 6 in
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN

Ghana

SHAKER DESIGN

INSTRUMENT TYPE

Seed Shaker, Shaker

SOUND QUALITIES

Soft Sound

CONSTRUCTED FROM

Oncoba Spinosa Fruit Shell

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