One of the most important instruments in Cuban music is the chekere. It originated in Africa, but became an integral component of Cuban folkloric music back in the 19th century. Due to its natural construction (it’s just a gourd with seeds or shells strung on the outside) it became a perfect instrument for Afro-Cubans to play when drums were either unavailable or outlawed. As time went on, the technique developed into an art form that is continuing to grow to this day, and there are those who have taken the instrument to an unbelievable level (Don Pancho Terry and his sons in particular!).

As a folkloric instrument it became the main component of the style known as “guiro”, where Lucumi singing is generally accompanied by three chekeres along with a cowbell and one drum. But the instrument soon was incorporated into popular music as well, and can be found today in both Latin dance and jazz bands.