Among the Efutu, a sub-tribe of the Fanti people, the gourd rattle is called maracas. Among the Ewe its name is axatse. This instrument should not be confused with the maracas rattle from Latin American percussion ensembles. It is the fruit of the Lagenaria sp. gourd tree that is transformed into a rattle to accompany dance. The maracas is usually played by a woman and with a constant rhythmical pattern. Among the Dagomba and the Mamprusi, women who sing and accompany themselves with a gourd rattle are associated with occultism and witchcraft. During rituals and ceremonies, women from a certain society can often be seen singing and accompanying themselves with a gourd rattle in their hand.
A net with beads or fruit-stones is attached to the outside of the maracas. The gourd can be shaken or held in one hand and tapped lightly with the palm of the other hand. The maracas produces a sound that mixes well with other percussion instruments.
© RMCA/Dominik PHYFFEROEN