Shakers, rattles & more
Shakers, rattles, kalimbas, ocarinas and rainsticks: small, joyful instruments for sound baths, drum circles and quiet moments, easy for anyone to pick up and play.
Gentle sound for everyone
Not every sound practice needs a big instrument. A rainstick turned slowly gives the soft rush of falling rain, lovely for winding down. Kashaka shakers and seed-shell rattles add a light, rhythmic texture to a drum circle or a sound bath, and maracas bring a bright, playful beat.
Kalimbas and ocarinas
A kalimba, or thumb piano, is played by plucking its metal tines with your thumbs, giving clear, music-box notes that are easy to improvise with. Ocarinas are small clay flutes with a soft, breathy tone, a gentle way into melody for children and adults alike.
Building a sound kit
Many people start with a singing bowl or a drum and add a shaker or rainstick for texture. Small instruments also make thoughtful gifts; browse the gift finder for ideas by budget.
Questions and answers
What is a kalimba?
A kalimba is a small hand-held instrument, sometimes called a thumb piano, with metal tines that you pluck with your thumbs. It makes soft, bell-like notes and is easy to play by ear.
How do you use a rainstick?
Hold it upright, then slowly tip it over so the seeds inside trickle down through the internal pins. The slower you turn it, the longer and softer the falling rain sound.
Are these instruments suitable as gifts?
Yes. Shakers, ocarinas and kalimbas are small, tactile and playful, and they are lovely gifts for music lovers, yoga teachers and children who are old enough to use them safely.