Castanets are similar to two sets of shells made from hard wood and joined at one end by a string.A clacking sound is popular in traditional Spanish dancing and can be created with the string looped onto your thumb.Depending on the size and material of your castanets, the sound of this timeless instrument can vary widely but no matter if you're playing for fun in your free time or adding some flair to your dance routine, with a few techniques you will soon be able to use
Step 1: The size of the castanets should be chosen.
The string connecting the shells of your castanets can be adjusted.The tone you create will be influenced by the size of your castanets.You want a pair that fit well in your hand and can be hidden from view.The sizes range from three for children to nine for larger hands and deeper tones.
Step 2: Determine handedness for each castanet
The hollow side of each castanet is tied together with two shells.One set will have a higher pitch, and this is your "hembra" castanet, which is worn on your right hand.The "macho" is the lower pitch castanet and will be worn on your left hand.There is a small letter R on the hembra pair of castanets.
Step 3: Put them on.
Take the string connecting the shells of your hembra castanet to pull it so two loops emerge from either end.Rest on either side of your knuckle if you put your thumb through both loops.Go along the bottom of your thumb.You can see the knot of the string on the bottom loop.
Step 4: Left handed, swap sides with your castanets.
Since the majority of the complex rhythms are going to be in your right hand, left handers might have an easier time playing if they wear the macho castanet.The traditional way of playing castanets is played by many left handers as it makes group instruction easier.
Step 5: Test the strength of your castanets.
Sound won't be bright or clear if castanets are loose.Additionally, loose castanets can fall off while performing or practicing, so you may want to loosen your knots as soon as possible.The length of your castanet string can be adjusted by sliding the knot tighter or looser.A string length that feels stable, comfortable, and snug is what you want.
Step 6: Don't put your castanets in your hands.
In flamenco dancing, castanets are often coupled with dance.The trills and clacks of the castanets can detract from the aesthetic of a dance if they are shown to the audience.
Step 7: You can choose mounted castanets for performances.
Professional percussionists in an orchestra often have to coordinate many instruments at once, and to save time, performers might use mounted castanets.These can be purchased at some music stores and online.
Step 8: A simple roll in the right hand can be practiced.
Start by touching the top of your castanet with your pinkie finger.If you want to do a castanet roll in your hembra, follow your pinkie with your ring finger and do the same for the rest of your fingers.The sound is called "RRI" by castanet teachers.
Step 9: With your left hand, add a rhythm.
The bass of your castanet will be created by your macho.To tap your macho castanet at the end of a right hand roll, use your middle finger and ring finger.A slightly heavier, deeper toned rhythm will be created by this.Experts refer to this sound as "TA".
Step 10: Use your right hand to make the "PI" sound.
Instead of using your left hand to make the "TA" sound, you'll use the ring and middle fingers of your right hand.To get used to the different sensations, alternate between this and your roll.
Step 11: The "PAM" sound can be heard using castanets.
The sound is sometimes referred to as "CHIN" for its clashing quality.The sound requires you to collide the castanets in front of your body.Semi-professional castanets and higher quality pairs are built to survive this strike.This move should be performed quickly.
Step 12: The finishing sound isPAN.
A powerful clap is often used to end a sequence, as it has a finality to it.To strike both castanets at the same time, use your pinkie, ring, and middle fingers.The powerful effect will be staggered and weak if you don't strike your castanets at the same time.
Step 13: Different strikes can be practiced in different patterns.
The complicated rhythms of the melody should remain in your hembra castanet, but you should experiment with different finger strikes."TA" strikes, clap back and forth, then finish strong with "PAN", alternate between trills and bassline.
Step 14: The castanets can be used for orchestral performances.
Mounted castanets can be played with a drumstick, mallet, or hand.The castanets are connected to a piece of wood in a way that leaves room for them to make noise.Shake mounted castanets are mounted back and forth in smooth, regular motions.Push the clapper between your knee and hand for a fast roll.The castanets have drumsticks on them.