Latin American music is very diverse, with the only truly unifying thread being the use of Latin-derived languages, predominately the Spanish language, the Portuguese language in Brazil, and to a lesser extent, Latin-derived Creole languages such as those found in Haiti. Although Spain is not part of Latin America, Spanish music (and Portuguese music) and Latin American music strongly cross-influence each other. Latin American music also incorporates music of the United Kingdom, the United States, and notably, Africa.

The term Latin percussion refers to any number of a large family of musical percussion instruments used in Latin music, which in turn is a very loosely related group of musical styles, mainly from the Latin American region, and ultimately having roots or influences in African tribal music.

Sound World Instruments (SWI) offers Latin instruments and Brazilian instruments of high quality construction and sound for beginners and working professionals alike from select manufacturers such as Remo and Tycoon.  You’re sure to recognize the universally popular Congas, Bongos, Timbales, Maracas, Cowbells, Triangles, Rasps and Wood Blocks. The Cuica (pronounced KWEE-kah) is a very interesting Brazilian friction drum often used in samba music and producing a tone with a high-pitched squeaky timbre. It has been called a ‘laughing gourd’ due to this sound. The Pandeiro is fundamentally a Brazilian tambourine but with two important distinctions: the tension of the head can be tuned and the metal jingles are crisper, drier and less sustained.

To fully round out your Latin American Instruments Collection you should also consider a colorful Cabasa (Afuche), or Shakere, perhaps an Agogo, some Spoons and Shakers. If you’re playing the Berimbau, a musical bow from Brazil, you will also want a Caxixi, considered the essential accompaniment. Don’t forget the perennial favorites...the popular Ocarina and our colorful rain sticks. 

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