MATRACAS

ONCE UPON A TIME...

Matracas are rhythm instruments used for the accompaniment of dancing and singing and they’re almost always linked to re1igious worship, where they replace the bell, as this was not allowed at certain ceremonies. There are Matracas of different sizes, and the Spanish are also great fans of this instrument. By way of curiosity, there are in fact some Matracas in Spain that are so big that they have to be played mechanically.

MATERIAL NEEDED

A cardboard, a cloth or a sheet of strong plastic and some Perspex or hard plastic.

TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES

A pair of scissors and some contact adhesive.

HOW TO MAKE THE INSTRUMENT

Matracas are essentially composed of two boards that are hinged together. If you stick several cardboard rectangles (30 x 4 cm) together, you should achieve a strong structure with a good sound. At one of the ends, you should stick the cloth or strong plastic sheet, which will act as a hinge. If you want to increase the sound quality of the Matracas, stick two Perspex or hard plastic rectangles (4 x 3 cm) on the inside of the unhinged end. The contact adhesive must be applied to both of the surfaces that you want to stick together, after which you should wait for 10 minutes before joining the two pieces together. Never be in a hurry to finish the instrument that you’re making. Learn how to savour the pleasure of your creation.

DECORATION

Just one simple suggestion... use stickers to colour the outside sections of your

Matracas.

HOW TO PLAY THE INSTRUMENT

Take hold of the Matracas in the middle. Now make a movement that is identical to clapping your hands to the rhythm of the music. You’ll immediately discover that you’re a “master” percussionist.