Brazilian Cuica Drum, Professional High Quality

Cuica

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The cuica (pronounced kwee-kah) is certainly one of the more unusual Brazilian drums. It is a cylindrical metal-shelled (usually) drum with a six to ten inch plastic or natural skin drumhead on one end. The other end is open. A thin stick (usually bamboo) inserted through the centre of the drumhead extends into the body of the drum. It is commonly used in samba music and serves a rhythmic function.

The cuica is usually held with a shoulder strap at about chest level. The percussionist puts one hand through the open end of the drum and holds the stick with a damp cloth. Rubbing the stick up and down produces a high-pitched squeaky sound. Using the fingertips of the other hand, the percussionist can change the pitch of the sound by pressing down on the top of the drumhead near its centre. A lower pitch can be achieved when the drumhead is not pressed at all or is lightly pressed, while a higher-pitched sound comes from pressing the drumhead more firmly.

In addition to its role in samba music, the cuica can be used in other music styles as well. Its unusual and distinctive sound would complement many forms of music. For the percussionist who wants to be able to produce a wide variety of sound effects, the cuica is a great addition to his or her drum and percussion set up.

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