Collection: Castanets

Castanets from SUZUKI, EMUS and MEINL, in handle, automatic and foot-mounted forms.

Traditional castanets are two shells held in one hand and clicked together with the fingers, which takes real practice. Every model here removes that problem in a different way, because in a classroom the point is the sound rather than the technique.

Handle castanets mount the shells on a stick with a spring between them, so a shake produces the click. That is the version most young students can play immediately.

Automatic castanets mount the shells on a paddle or board and are tapped with the fingers against the base. The SUZUKI castanet with holder and the EMUS automatic model both work this way, and both give a cleaner single click than a handle model.

The SUZUKI Eco castanet is made from a recycled material rather than hardwood.

The MEINL foot castanet straps to the shoe and is played by tapping, which keeps both hands free for another instrument.