Spain (Europe)
Canya

Pronounced ("con-ya"), this instrument is from the Celtic region of Asturias, Spain, and sounds similar to the bones, ribs from a goat or sheep. It also sounds like castanets, a pair of slightly concave wooden shells on a connecting cord tethered around the thumb, held in one hand, and clapped together with the fingers. The sound and rhythms played by the canya, are very similar to the sounds and rhythms played by the Celtic and Flamenco dancers' feet. This instrument is held vertically by one hand at the base of the cane and struck by the other hand's thumb and index finger just below the grip. The cane is split partially down the center allowing the rocking or striking motion at the base of the cane to sympathetically produce rhythms and sound at the top of the cane.

The WORLD BEATS video features live, costumed performances of ancient, ethnic, percussive traditions. Aaron Plunkett puts it all together in this fascinating 33 minute program. SEE MORE...