How Do You Play Combos On Castanets?
Although typically associated with Spanish folk art, castanets actually date back to ancient Phoenicia. In the modern tradition, flamenco dancers and singers most commonly use the percussion instrument for accompaniment. Mastering the castanets requires manual dexterity and patience, but the hard work pays off when you hear your beautiful rhythmic combos come to life. Identify which castanet is male, or “macho,” and which is female, or “hembra.” The male castanet, which usually has no marks near the chord, has a characteristically low sound. The female castanet, marked one or more times, has a comparatively high sound. Hold the female castanet in your right hand and the male castanet in your left hand, looping the chords around your thumbs. If you are left-handed, reverse these positions. Practice playing basic castanet sounds before creating combos. First, try the RRI, rapidly tapping the castanet with your fingers in succession, starting with your pinkie finger and moving toward the
