Product Description
The Kashaka Shaker - Ocean is the blue-dressed variant of the popular African-Balinese percussion instrument. Twenty-six centimetres long, it consists of two seed-filled balls connected by a strong cord — spun from the wrist it produces a hypnotic, rhythmic click.
What can you use it for?
The kashaka's simplicity is deceptive: one motion and a whole rhythm section comes alive. Use it at home to lay a rhythm bed under guitar playing, as a rhythmic warm-up in drama class, or as a gentle pulsing background in yoga and meditation. In drum circles it is excellent for beginners because you cannot play it wrong — every movement creates a rhythmic sound. A lovely gift for parent-baby sessions, children's music groups, camps, or simply for a friend whose soul moves to music.
Who is it for?
Musicians and music teachers looking for a natural-sounding percussion; adults who love the sea, travel, and world music; yoga and meditation leaders; creative educators who want a tool for developing rhythmic sense; a gift for a musician friend's birthday.
Tip and care
The grip is key: hold the cord between the middle and ring finger so that one ball sits inside the palm and the other outside. A wrist flick spins the outer ball, which strikes the inner — creating the signature rhythm. Store at room temperature in a dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the paint. Dust with a soft cloth; do not rub the painted areas.
Craft heritage and origin
Known as aslatua, this West African percussion has a rich history: originally a children's game in Ghana and Togo, it entered the world-music palette in the 20th century. In Balinese interpretation, local suar wood meets island painting traditions — an African instrument becomes an Indonesian handcrafted piece. Local masters turn the balls by hand, fill them with natural seeds, and paint the motif. Every step is human work.
Ocean colours at home
Painted in deep blue and turquoise, the kashaka is not only an instrument but also a subtle interior piece. It looks especially striking against white or light walls and composes well into coastal, Mediterranean, or Scandinavian interiors. On a shelf, leaning against a book, or hung from a traditional hook: it is music for the eyes too. In an unexpected moment you can pick it up, and within five seconds new energy pulses through the room.
Feedback from players
Those who try it seldom set it aside. Most owners reach for the kashaka daily — next to a guitar, in a singing session, in play with a child. The flexible grip and clear tone mean the hand does not tire even over longer stretches. The cliché fate of an exotic ornament gathering dust on a shelf does not apply here: this is a piece genuinely enjoyed day after day.
A travel companion
Thanks to its light weight and modest length, the kashaka fits easily into a backpack or suitcase. It has accompanied musicians on camping trips, festival tours, and long train rides, offering instant music wherever the mood strikes. No amplification, no setup, no tuning — just pick it up, and the room or clearing becomes a stage.