Claves

Claves are percussion instruments consisting of two wooden sticks, typically cylindrical in shape. They are used to mark the rhythm in various musical traditions, especially in Afro-Cuban music, but also in other genres. Musicians strike them against each other to produce a sharp and bright sound, which is highly distinctive and helps maintain the beat in a musical piece. Claves are essential for carrying the pulse and giving structure to the rhythm of the music. At Sonata Custom, two types of claves are available: traditional and Cuban (or hollow). In the traditional ones, both elements are identical, whereas in the Cuban claves, one of them, the "female" piece, is larger and features a recess in the center as well as a hole that runs through it longitudinally. When the hand is placed over the groove, it creates a resonance chamber that amplifies the sound of the instrument when struck with the other piece, the "male." Additionally, the tone (or "pitch") is deeper due to this design.

Sonata Custom claves are always finished with oil to preserve their tone intact while protecting the wood surface. Additionally, for woods other than wenge, a decorative ring can be added to each end of the claves. This ring is not painted but is created by friction-burning the wood while it's still on the lathe, ensuring great durability against wear. If you'd like a combination of elements not available on the product page, such as different woods or a decorative ring on only one of the two claves, use the custom product form.