Limpet shells
A percussion instrument made from limpet shells struck together to mark the rhythm.
- Family
- Percussion
- Area
- Canary Islands
History
The musical use of limpet shells grew from an everyday coastal object. Linked to shellfish gathering and old ways of using nearby resources, the shells came to mark the beat of songs and gatherings, especially on Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
Characteristics
Two dry shells of similar size and shape are selected and their edges smoothed if necessary. Held one in each hand, their raised backs are struck together to produce a dry, crisp sound suited to repeating simple patterns.
Where it is used
They are characteristic of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, although known on other islands. They provide a compact rhythmic foundation for popular songs and can accompany the timple and other string instruments.
