Wooden Musical Instruments

A-Star is very popular and a great option within schools and the education sector. They produce instruments that are strong, well-made and will help students to explore different sounds. An example of this is the wooden percussion that we offer. All manufactured to the highest standards from sustainable woods from around the globe, they are great for exploring different sounds and tones that wood produces when used in different ways. In schools, this is a great way to teach students about rhythm, texture, tonality, creativity, culture and also history.

Latin and African Percussion

Latin and African music typically consists of percussion such as djembes and bongos. They can be played in many wonderful ways, such as hitting with the palm of the hand or with the fingertips. They can be played loud or quiet, hard or soft, and many other ways. There is no limit to what you can do with these. Therefore, they are great for exploring the different sounds and tones that different instruments can ultimately make. They are also great for learning about rhythm for beginners, as the initial technique required to play them is very accessible and achievable. There is a wide range of djembes from 5 inch to 10 inch and all in-between, a deep carved djembe and even a mini djembe for those smaller hands.
The A-Star bongos add a different level of texture and technique, and also have a solid construction. Great for exploring the idea of different tones and rhythms, especially those of Latin and South America.

Agogos & Guiros

These instruments generally need a beater to produce a noise. There are endless ways to play the agogo and guiros, so have a go and see what wonderful sounds you can make. Hit or scrape the guiros with the included beaters to create different tones, dynamics and textures. The agogos often include more than one pitch to play with, such as the 2 tone metal agogo or double wooden agogo. The two tone-woodblocks are also great for exploring different sounds and rhythms, and how they can be combined to create great music.

Claves & Castanets

Unlike the latter, these instruments do not require a beater. Very simple to use, both claves and castanets are great for all ages. Experiment with different sounds and tones by playing each instrument differently. There are a range of bright colours of claves to help encourage you to play adding a visually stimulating aspect, including blue, green, red, yellow and natural. For those bigger groups and classes, why not get the pack of 10 pairs or even 30 pairs. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Take a look at our new world claves, made from sustainable timber; learn about sounds as well as Latin culture. Create the classic sound of Spain with some wooden castanets or have a go with the handled castanets.

Weird & Wonderful, Wooden Percussion

Let’s delve deep into the world of wooden percussion. Have you ever heard of the animal clapper, a chatter box (no, not someone who talks a lot!), a kokiriko, or even a slapstick whip-crack? They all sound very strange right? That’s even more of a reason to explore these instruments and see what sounds they can produce. Experiment with different sounds on the frog scraper, go wild with a ratchet, or make a dramatic entrance with the thunder drum.