Chajchas

Chajchas
Percussion instrument
Other namesChapchas; Uñas
Classification Percussion
Hornbostel–Sachs classification112.1
(Shaken Idiophones or Rattles)

Chajchas (also chapchas; Spanish: uñas, "toenails") are a small percussion instrument of the rattle family, typically made from goat or sheep hooves, and originating in the Central Andes. The instrument is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies, and can also be heard in much of the folk music of the region,[1] especially the countries of Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, Chile, Ecuador.[2]

It consists of a number of dried hooves (which may also come from llamas or alpacas) strung onto a colorful piece of fabric, often elasticated, which allows the instrument to be worn as a bracelet around the wrist or ankle. They are typically played in pairs, and may be used in ceremonial dances.[3]

  1. ^ "Chajchas". Archived from the original on 2013-10-21. Retrieved 2013-08-25.
  2. ^ "Chapchas – A Rattle Made From The Toenails of Goats!". May 24, 2013.
  3. ^ "Saint Paul Sunday presents Rumillajta". Archived from the original on 2013-12-31. Retrieved 2013-08-25.