Description: The
chekere is a percussion instrument in the form of a shaker. The chekere
is found in Cuba and Brazil. The chekere is African origins. Often the
chekere is used to accompany vocals, and or other percussion and
instrumental ensembles. The type of chekere shown in the photo on this
page is used in the Abwe or chekere ensembles who were linked with
traditions associated with the "Calbidos" who are a type of community
based assoiciation found with in the Afro-Cuban communities though out
the 19th century and ealier. In the 20th & 21st centuries the
chekere is often used as a percussion or accompinament instrument in
rhumba to salsa groups.
Anatomy of the Chekere:
The Chekere is made from a hollowed out gourd in which a net is
fashioned around the exterior surface of the instrument. Beeds are then
strung through in sometimes plain or very intricate designs. The
chekere is found in many sizes.