Castanets

Definition

A percussion instrument popular in Spanish music. It consists of two shells, traditionally made of wood, joined with string and clicked together. Castanets are often used by Flamenco dancers, and sometimes they will have castanets in each hand.

Examples

Castanets played as solo instruments in this recording.

See castanets being played in this recording.

Castanets being played in traditional Spanish music.

Related concepts

• Percussion (N3 & N4 Tech)