Rainstick Information
A rainstick is a musical instrument that creates a sound similar to falling rain. The instrument is traditionally made from a hollow and dried cactus. The cactus is dried and the needles are pressed inward, according to the Virginia Tech Department of Music. The cactus is filled with pebbles, dried clay or other small hard materials. The rain sound is created when the stick is turned upside down and the stones or clay hit the inverted needles on their way down.
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History
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The history of the rainstick is debatable. Most accounts report that the rainstick originated in Peru. Because of the lack of evidence and records, it is difficult to determine where the rainstick actually originated, according to online resource Native Village. Some accounts suggest that the rainstick was created by the Aztecs or by the Diaguita people in Chile.
Size
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Sizes of rainsticks vary greatly. Depending on the material used, a rainstick could be anywhere between 4 inches and 60 inches long. This wide gap is the due the variety of materials available for making a rainstick. Generally, the longer the stick is, the longer the sound will last. So a shorter rainstick of 5 inches may only produce a sound for fewer than 10 seconds. A rainstick that is 60 inches long can produce a sound lasting a few minutes.
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Sound
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The sound of the rainstick is meant to imitate the sound of rain. The sound is produced when the rainstick is turned to its side or upside down. The angle at which the stick is turned and the speed at which it is turned will affect the sound it creates. The stick can also be shaken at a quick past to imitate a sound closer to a maraca. The material and filling used also affects the sound.
There are many instructions available online one how to make a rainstick out of cardboard tubing and pebbles. This version of a rainstick provides a different sound than does a rainstick fabricated from cactus.
Prices
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The price for a rainstick varies as widely as its size. The more high end rainsticks are made from cactus. These rainsticks are more durable than homemade ones and offer a unique sound. Generally, the longer the rainstick is, the more expensive it is. Expect to pay around $80 for new, long rainstick. A shorter rainstick (5 inches) will cost around $8 depending on where it is purchased.
Uses
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While the rainstick is used in many genres of music, it is also used in classrooms, therapeutic settings, meditation lounges and spas. The sound of the rainstick is considered very soothing. Classrooms teachers can use a rainstick to get students attention in a non-threatening way. Therapeutic settings can use the rainstick to induce a feeling of calmness its clients.
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References
- Photo Credit percussion instruments image by sasha from Fotolia.com
