KOW Bones - African Blackwood

These bones are hand carved in Tanzania, the wood used being offcuts from other handicraft projects. They are very ergonomic and nice to hold.

Bones refers to a simple, handheld percussion instrument made of two thin, curved pieces of material, traditionally animal bones but also often crafted from wood or plastic. It's one of the oldest known musical instruments, used in a variety of folk music traditions around the world.

Bones have roots in ancient music, being used by cultures in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. In the Irish tradition, they are often associated with folk music sessions, accompanying instruments like the fiddle or tin whistle. They are also found in American minstrel shows and Appalachian folk music.

The player holds the two "bones" loosely between the fingers of one hand. By flicking the wrist, the bones are made to click together, producing a rhythmic clattering sound. The motion is similar to snapping fingers, but with the bones creating the sound.