Echoing the video and a lot of the comments - do not underestimate the shake. If you rush that step it's really easy to learn the wrong lesson about how your hand and wrist should move during the tosses which will hurt you later. It really should feel the balls effortlessly toss themselves when you have the shake down. I used to play pit percussion so I've experimented with all sorts of weird instruments, but this is by far the most fun I've ever had learning something new. And my neighbors probably hate me.
Hehe, dont worry too much about the neighbours ;) Or if necessary, go practice in the park like I do! I totally agree, the shake is so necessary to get down to establish your flow. Happy practicing!
Thank you. Mine came today. My arm is tired. I just learned about them and ordered them the same day on Amazon. I play the drums in an African Drum Circle. I’m happy to have a new instrument to bring. I live near Raleigh, North Carolina 🇺🇸. I Love learning something new. I am 78 year old. You are a good teacher. I promise I will be practicing.
Omg you are a savior! I've been stuck for days trying to figure out what's wrong and just watching this video I feel like I finally unlocked the asalato technique! Thank you for pointing out the ever so basics that others fail to tell us
Thank you so much for this lesson! I just bought some quiet cork asalatos and immediately found this video. I am a percussion teacher and I love how you explained everything in your video. Thank you so much for sharing things you've learned. I can tell I'm going to have fun learning how to play these. ❤
Thank you! You are a good teacher! I played drums for a while, but this is a different thing. The Shake Lesson was very important for me. Greetings from Germany 🎉
Thanks for the help. Been a percussionist for 20 years and the asalato is one of the few instruments in which mastery has eluded me. But this video helped so much
So grateful to discover your tutorial video Pete. Just got my first pair of Kashaka’s today. I bought them because I really struggle with rhythmic movements, and figured this might be a good way to develop my sense of coordination and rhythm. I found this tutorial super helpful because you emphasise getting the shake and fluidity of motion established first. I’ll just start there, and will keep practicing daily! Also loving the artwork in the background!
Thanks so much for your comment 😁 I'm really glad you've found the video helpful. I'm sure with some practice you will soon start seeing results! Have fun!! Also, the artwork was off a targeted ad online, thought it was too cool not to buy it 😹😹
This was super helpful as someone who just discovered this existed and it was super fun to watch! I hope to see many more videos from you in the future ❤
This video was really helpful but I’m struggling to keep shaking in time while trying to click it. I’m coming from string instruments so i think i probably just need to practice more 😅
I have only just discovered these. I bought some and just started yesterday. I find it very hard to keep the shake going, and also catching the moving one.I know it will take some time but these are so cool. My whole body is moving but not the right bits! I am not young! But trying to sing Brazilian music.
Thanks so much! this the best i tutorial I have seen so far, getting the shake down is missing from most other videos and its such an important first step! subscribed ofc, thanks again
Ace! I know it’s going to be a long haul to get half decent at playing a pair of these but I’m going to give it a go. Mine are arriving tomorrow. Cheers. Lee
@@PeteGalea I bought a pair because I can't have my drums and thought these would be an easy, fun instrument to play. Well, it's fun but not so easy. Nothing like playing the drums 😅
@@iamhootch I have to agree on both points, there's nothing quite like the space to play a proper drumkit, but I've found the Asalato to be the most fun way for me to remain engaged with rhythm! Fun, and quite challenging!
Thanks so much for putting these tutorials together. I find them incredibly helpful. Appreciate the offer of elaborating but honestly, I think I just need to improve on my co-ordination. I'll keep practicing.
@louisbriggs3342 if the string is too long it'll bounce badly. Hold them and pull the string on one end till you get resistance but the string isn't tight and tie the knot there. You should be able to fit one finger between the string and the back of your hand. It was a disaster with them until after i did this. Lmk if that helps.
This video is great in its own way, but for brand new learners, search for Hadrian Santos video. It does the best job I’ve seen of showing the correct form and tempo to get the basic rhythm going.
Hey Peter! Thanks so much for this video. You should go a little more into string length. I got mine yesterday and it was a mess untill i shortened the strings significantly. Once i made the adjustment it was dramatically easier. I passed it on in the comments below. Thanks again for this though. Ive come back to it about 10 times in the last few days lol. Its great!
Thank you very much for your feedback. I will make a video specifically on the rope length, as you're right, it's a very common issue/question. Take care! P
Hi Pete! Thank you for this amazing video!! I'd like to start this percussion and I was wondering if it would be better to get a plastic asalato as a beginner or maybe the material doesn't change anything to the technique? Many thanks 😊
How to adjust to find best rope length for my hands? Also I do fine with catching the ball on the pinky side. But the thumb side catch? I think some even more beginner tutorial would help many. Very interesting. I like the shake it all the time approach. Thank you! 🎵
Rope length is trial and error! See what works for you. And you don't need to catch it on the thumb side, so not sure what you mean in this case. Enjoy!
Thank you Peter for the quick reply. I will play with lenght. Thum side catch is something I've seen in another video. I will ask there, which makes sense when I think of it. Thanks again!
I just bought my first set. I am EXTREMELY uncoordinated but I’m determined to learn this instrument. I have small hands and it feels like the balls are too far apart. Do I need to shorten the cord or just get used to it? I really enjoyed this video. You make it look so easy!
Hey. I'm new to this as well. Small-ish hands. I followed the recommendations from websites as to how much slack (2 fingers) should work and the balls just kept bouncing out of my hands unless my catch was really perfect. I decided to hold them so the strings were pointing directly at me with a relaxed hand and took up the slack on one side and tie the knot exactly there. When i hold them now i can fit one finger and its snug.. Now I can grab it before it bounces. I got them yesterday and spent three hours on and off trying to get it and it didn't work at all. I managed to get the shake in about 20 minutes after I adjusted them. Managed a basic shake and catch today a couple of times. For me the difference was dramatic. Also- the string will stretch so you may have to tighten it up after some use. Lmk if it helps.
Hey! I'll be making a video on string length specifically. Really and truly it's trial and error, but when holding them in your hand, enough slack behind your knuckles to fit one finger is a good start. Hope that helps until I make that video, cheers :)
i`d like to make a comment based in what i saw in assalatosampa people (lari finocchiaro), you shouldnt be twisting your wrists when moving, cuz it can result in injuries into it, the move itself is all around ur arm :) besides that, great video, ill be following u and ur videos, im waiting for my materials to come, ill make an asalato of acrilic xmas balls and rice, if i get the taste of it, ill make other one with mache and polyepoxide
Interesting. Those guys make great asalato, I hope to buy some from them soon. But I'd certainly love to talk technique with them too! Their content is not in English though, as far as I've seen. In terms of wrist/arm movement, I'd like to think my experience with studying drumstick technique has allowed me to be conscious enough of what I'm doing to not get injured. At the end of the day, listening to your body is the most important thing. All the best with your journey and thanks for your comment.
I've been playing for awhile but trying to get better. This video explaining about keeping them shaking was huge for me. I'll be watching all your videos. I have a said of the African gourd but would like plastic ones where I can adjust the rope. Any suggestions of a decent pair that will ship to the U.S. without charging an arm and a leg? I'm afraid to try any of the ones on Amazon. Thanks for all your help.
Hi Cathy! Thanks so much for your comment, I'm really glad you are finding my content helpful! The only brands I'm familiar with that are good quality are Kashaka UK and Asalato Sampa (i don't have any from AS but they look and sound great).. Im afraid I don't know of any manufacturers in the US.. Perhaps have a look if getting from those 2 brands could be viable. Thanks again and all the best!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us all! So grateful. I have a new pair of kashaka pros from kashaka uk and i cant do the proper "clash" noise between the do balls when they hit each others, because it seems like the rope is always on the way of the hit and mutes the clack souns...any advice on that ? Thanks a lot !
You mean on the top or bottom part of the swing? For the top, make sure it's going OVER the thumb, I can't stress how important that is. In terms of the bottom, experiment with the length of the rope, or try relaxing your hand more. Hope that helps!
Hmm, interesting idea! I never actually practiced shaker with a metronome. It's worth a try! I would just recommend trying some different tempos such as 60, 80, 100 for example, and see which ones are most comfortable. Try recording yourself too! Or maybe even just practice along to songs!! 😁
thanks for the video! managing to do pretty well but sometimes the dropped spinning asalato just starts going wild and spinning more up and down and a not across my fingers. What could help with improving this any ideas?
From what I've seen, catching it with the bottom of the hand on the way back in is something most people take a bit of time to get right. It's just about staying relaxed and not closing your hand too soon. Hope that helps! Enjoy :)
I'm a multi instrumentalist and totally new to the shaker. Never once would I ever underestimate the shaker or any instrument for that matter. True musicians will understand that. The triangle probably has some advanced techniques! I ordered the asalato but only received one piece. I'm going to learn with the one first but alternate hands. My one asalato seems to have the string much longer than yours. Is there a proper length for my hands spand? I'm going to have to watch this video many times. This is difficult.. my brain doesn't want to cooperate.
The triangle, too, should not be underestimated, haha! In terms of the length of the string it's about trial and error, see what works for you. I'm sure you'll figure it out with some practice. Cheers and enjoy!
@@MattPoyntermusic I had the opposite problem with my first pair: they were too long. With an adjustable pair you can find the perfect length for your hands. Good luck! :)
How do you keep the ball in your hand without it slipping out while being relaxed? Plus the ball and string starts misaligning and swings over the top of my fingers
I don't understand how you keep shaking when the ball is over your thumb. I have no trouble shaking normally, but when I let loose the second ball and it comes on my thumb, I can only bounce it back and stop the shaking
I just a really cheap pair of these. The cord is too long to allow for good contact? Is there an easy way to measure how long the cord should be for the size of my hand? Besides just cutting a little bit and retying until it feels right?
If its too long try taping down a portion of it onto one of the shakers, rather than cutting it. That worked well for me with my first set until I could get some adjustable ones. Hope that helps.
Hi Pete, great video! I was looking to buy a pair of kashaka's and noticed you didn't say anything about size. Do you have some input on the importance of the size of the balls or length of the string in relation to your hands?
Hey man! Sorry for the late reply. The size of the shaker balls is not that important to me unless you have massive hands, and the main thing is that you buy a pair with adjustable string length. I believe a standard pair will have 50mm shakers or something like that. Hope that helps!
@@PeteGalea Hi Pete. The ones in the video look like regular/medium Kashaka Pro's which are 45mm. These are an ideal size for most beginners - also great for experienced players like yourself :) They are also available in 50mm for larger hands & 38mm for smaller hands. All have fully adjustable ropes, so can be played by all hand sizes, but the ball size can/does make a difference to how easy/difficult it is to catch the kashaka - especially when first learning.
I got a question, when you say "and at some point just let it go" .. which is the moment I should let it go? I find hard to calculate the delay between that and when the ball actually hits the other one (I am on my first day) do you let it go like on the last quarter note of the shaking rhithm or..?
I'm having trouble catching the ball on the pinky side. Also my strings are slightly different lengths. Mine are plugged into the nut ones, not the knotted variety.
Keep practicing! And try to stay relaxed. You will get it! I can imagine the strings being different lengths might be a bit inconvenient, if they're not adjustable you can try taping down a small part of the string close to where its plugged in to the ball. That's what I had done with my first pair which were non adjustable, as a temporary fix. Keep trying 😁
I think in general working on being relaxed is a big thing for beginners of any instrument. I've seen it a lot with my drum students in the past. Don't be afraid to drop the shaker, it's better to be verging on slightly too loose than too stiff. Always listen to your body :)
Any ideas to increase the string length like 1/2” too 1” or do I just need to reorder. Seems I’d be remiss not attempted to fix myself? As personal an instrument as it is. This also is by far the best I’ve come across for basic info to get this instrument started. And I’ve been a std drummer for 30 + years.
Thank you for that, I'm glad you found my content helpful 😁 in terms of string length, if you don't have adjustable ones then I'd only be able to recommend a hack to shorten them, not lengthen them (taping down part of the string).. I'd definitely recommend getting a pair of adjustable ones if possible (you'll know for sure because the string goes all the way through each shaker with a knot on the outside). Hope that helps!
@@PeteGalea I have really tiny hands - forgive me if you've answered this already! But should the string be fairly tight over the knuckles when holding the two in fist? I currently have a gap of about 5cm and I think it might be making the throw-catch harder? Or maybe I am looking for excuses!
@@caithlinmercer7700 I'd say when holding them both in your hand, the string should not have much of a gap from the knuckles, maybe just a bit but 5cm sounds like too much for me. Hope that helps.
I'm having some trouble with my non dominant hand and I was wondering if you have any tips. So when it comes to playing with my right hand, they behave beautifully. Pretty much every time they swing around, the string is perpendicular with my fingers like it's supposed to be. But when I play it with my left hand, it's like I barely have any control over the swing even though I'm doing the exact same motion. Do you have any tips for combating this problem?
Have you tried practicing in front of a mirror? I've encountered this issue with my own practice and many of my drum students too. Generally I find using a mirror for the extra perspective can be helpful. Remember the physics are the same in each hand, so you may need to relax more, which you may not be used to doing with the weaker hand. Above all, be patient and keep trying! Hope that helps.
Just started to try and learn. My biggest problem is that I have real trouble getting a grip on the lower ball as it swings in. My fingers slip right of the surface of the balls (they're the plastic uk made ones). I'm thinking of roughing up the surface a bit, to ty and make my skin grip it more.
That could be an option, but may not be necessary. Often the bottom shaker flies out as you try to catch it because you need to relax more, and don't grab it so quickly. Good luck!
@@PeteGalea Thank you! I'll carry on practicing. I was the same impatient way when I learned to play the Bones. Oddly enough, learning those required the same relaxing of the hands, and slowing down, and suddenly they were almost playing themselves.
I am new to asalato. Nice lesson. Thank you! I think I understand it, but am still very uncoordinated. I really am having trouble catching the ball on its return back to my palm, under my pinkie finger. It clicks the ball then bounces back out of the bottom of my hand. Any tips? Thank you!
I'm having trouble with the click inside the hand. It kinda feels like it's too long for my hand. Are they certain sizes to go for? The rope is around 12,5 - 13 cm
If the rope is adjustable I'd recommend trying some different settings until you find the right length for you. I still adjust mine from time to time for a different feel. Hope you manage to sort it out! :)
I’ve had these kas kas for a couple months things are coming along nicelyI can spin both directions both hands catch on bottom and top fluently polyrhythms are coming along however my shake feels like it is not running smoothly through out all that’s going on. Another words feels like the shake is only happening in between the releasing and spinning this Feels awkward and doesn’t sound smooth or rhythmic😫 Help 😂👍🏻
Hi Robert! Thanks for your comment. I'm really glad things are coming along nicely for you, and that you're enjoying playing the Kas Kas. As with most things, I'd suggest working on relaxing your motions, and ideally simplifying the way you're practicing. How does it feel when just playing the shake sound? I really think if you manage to work on the 'C' shape I mentioned in this video, it should be helpful, and you can try isolating each click and making sure the individual motions are relaxed, before joining them together. If this still doesn't help, feel free to send me a video of you playing on Instagram, and perhaps I can help better that way? Lastly, stay tuned for Part 2 of this video which will be coming out in just under 2 weeks, and that might also be helpful to you. Thanks again and happy practicing!
Thanks for getting back 👍🏻 you brought to my attention that even my shake alone feels somewhat odd I guess I could spend a few days alone really concentrating I’m getting comfortable with that. It’s crazy how something that looks relatively easy can be tricky! Anyway I’ll definitely work on that and be looking forward to your part two 👍🏻👍🏻
The moment i try to let the shaker start the clicks , the whole ryhtem stops from being fluid , i dont understand exactly when to let it go from my hand 😅
Not sure about postage to India but I use Kashaka UK. Other brands also exist such as Asalato Sampa, Okume Percussion and Kosh Kash Moussa but I've not used any of those before. Check eBay/Etsy too maybe? Hope that helps!
I use Kashaka UK's Pro model. But I know other companies exist such as Asalato Sampa, Okume Percussion and others but I have yet to try those for myself.
Oh and also there's a guy on Instagram called KoshKash Moussa who sells authentic handmade ones but again, I haven't tried them myself yet. Good luck on your search!
I picked up a set of kashaka pros after watching your videos but what got me looking at kashaka to begin with was this guy that plays one with one hand and a handpan with the other - ruclips.net/video/EDQgU1CPpis/видео.html I own a handpan so I thought it would be a cool thing to add. However, I'm still unable to get the second crack out of one swing like he does. Do you have a video that demonstrates that? I'm assuming it's a loose catch with a crack and then he's using his thumb to push them together for the second crack but so far I'm unable to reproduce it.
Hi there! So cool you're playing kashaka and welcome to the community! I also really appreciate your viewership and leaving a comment. I believe you're referring to palm clicks. There is more than one way of doing this. While I don't have any videos about them currently, such a video is in my high priority list right now, I'm just sorting out moving house and finding a new studio and I'll be back making videos regularly soon. I hope you'll stick around and I'll have some more videos for you very soon! Take care
@pete I have jus bought a pair of them and I am almost ready to send them back to Amazon 🤣 it seems impossible to me. And also, my ones are not very noisy.. Theo are made of cork outside… any advice is welcome 🤍
![Megan Thee Stallion - Mamushi (feat. Yuki Chiba) [2024 London Performance]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pxTCJUuorKc/mqdefault.jpg)
Echoing the video and a lot of the comments - do not underestimate the shake. If you rush that step it's really easy to learn the wrong lesson about how your hand and wrist should move during the tosses which will hurt you later. It really should feel the balls effortlessly toss themselves when you have the shake down.
I used to play pit percussion so I've experimented with all sorts of weird instruments, but this is by far the most fun I've ever had learning something new. And my neighbors probably hate me.
Hehe, dont worry too much about the neighbours ;) Or if necessary, go practice in the park like I do! I totally agree, the shake is so necessary to get down to establish your flow. Happy practicing!
Thank you. Mine came today. My arm is tired. I just learned about them and ordered them the same day on Amazon. I play the drums in an African Drum Circle. I’m happy to have a new instrument to bring. I live near Raleigh, North Carolina 🇺🇸. I Love learning something new. I am 78 year old. You are a good teacher. I promise I will be practicing.
Lol same story. Mine are coming tomorrow.
That's fantastic to hear! Enjoy your practice and thanks for checking out my video. All the best!
Omg you are a savior! I've been stuck for days trying to figure out what's wrong and just watching this video I feel like I finally unlocked the asalato technique! Thank you for pointing out the ever so basics that others fail to tell us
@@tanyam.delacruz532 glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for watching :)
Thank you so much for this lesson! I just bought some quiet cork asalatos and immediately found this video. I am a percussion teacher and I love how you explained everything in your video. Thank you so much for sharing things you've learned. I can tell I'm going to have fun learning how to play these. ❤
@@cherrhythm glad you like the video. Thanks for watching and enjoy your practice! 😁
Thank you! You are a good teacher! I played drums for a while, but this is a different thing. The Shake Lesson was very important for me. Greetings from Germany 🎉
Thank you for your comment! I am glad the video is helpful to you. All the best!
Thanks for the help. Been a percussionist for 20 years and the asalato is one of the few instruments in which mastery has eluded me. But this video helped so much
I'm really glad to hear that! Thanks for watching, and feel free to check out my other asalato videos too. Cheers Garett :)
So grateful to discover your tutorial video Pete. Just got my first pair of Kashaka’s today. I bought them because I really struggle with rhythmic movements, and figured this might be a good way to develop my sense of coordination and rhythm.
I found this tutorial super helpful because you emphasise getting the shake and fluidity of motion established first. I’ll just start there, and will keep practicing daily!
Also loving the artwork in the background!
Thanks so much for your comment 😁 I'm really glad you've found the video helpful. I'm sure with some practice you will soon start seeing results! Have fun!!
Also, the artwork was off a targeted ad online, thought it was too cool not to buy it 😹😹
This was super helpful as someone who just discovered this existed and it was super fun to watch! I hope to see many more videos from you in the future ❤
Thank you so much! I'm glad you found it helpful, and many more music/rhythm videos will come :)
This video was really helpful but I’m struggling to keep shaking in time while trying to click it. I’m coming from string instruments so i think i probably just need to practice more 😅
okay, just heard the first 30 seconds and i subscribed. sweet!! 👍🏼👍🏼😊
Thanks so much man :) glad to have you around!
@@PeteGalea i've been touched by an Angel! than *you*!
*Love* your teaching style Pete - thank you! 👏🏻🤩👍🏻
Glad to hear that, thank you! Happy practicing :)
Excellent teaching! Thank you!
Thanks for watching, glad it helped! 😁
Great video, thank you so much for sharing your technique.
Thanks for watching!
Such a nice video! So helpful. Thank youuuu! :)
Glad it was helpful! Thanks :)
This was so helpful! Thank you!
Glad to hear that! Thanks for watching and commenting :)
That was a really great lesson. You covered all the mistakes I was making. I'm already getting the shaking and the cracking.
Ahhh, good vibes my friend. I like your attitude, thank you for the video 🙏🏼
Thanks for watching. All the best!
I have only just discovered these. I bought some and just started yesterday. I find it very hard to keep the shake going, and also catching the moving one.I know it will take some time but these are so cool. My whole body is moving but not the right bits! I am not young! But trying to sing Brazilian music.
Keep practicing and have fun! I'm sure you'll get it in no time :) thanks for watching!
Dude... You made it so clear. Thank you!
Thanks, glad you found it helpful :)
Nice video Pete. Good to see your Kashaka are doing well & getting plenty of good use.
Thanks Jon! Yes they certainly are! All the best.
Thanks so much! this the best i tutorial I have seen so far, getting the shake down is missing from most other videos and its such an important first step! subscribed ofc, thanks again
Thank you so much!! I'm glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. Enjoy your asalato journey! Cheers :)
nice human. thank you for your kindness.
I do my best✌😸
you're a great teacher! Thanks so much for sharing! I don't even have one of these yet, but you've inspired me to get one :)
Thanks for watching! Have fun practicing, whenever you get a set 😁
Thank you this is a really nice beginners intro!
Glad you liked it!
thank you so much bro
Thanks for watching!
Super 👍 merci.
Pas de problème :) thanks for watching!!
Super explanation!
Thank you very much. Im glad you found the video helpful 😁
I just bought one today... maybe i should've bought two...
damnnnn this things good, nice shake lesson, its help me lots
Thanks for watching, I'm glad you found it helpful!
Super
Ace! I know it’s going to be a long haul to get half decent at playing a pair of these but I’m going to give it a go. Mine are arriving tomorrow. Cheers. Lee
Just enjoy it and keep at it every day, you'll figure it out for sure. Have fun and good luck! 😁
Where did you bought them ?
@@gracemena2753 amazon (I would have to travel at least 50 miles to find a music store sadly)
Yessssssssss
😁👊 looking forward to seeing you play yours soon bro
Great
Thanks! 😁
prosit hafna spjegajt tajjeb grazzi ❤
Napprezza! Cheers :)
You are a peach 🤍… but I just realized I can’t make it 🤣 … maybe “playing” is just not my thing. Will keep practicing singing and shaking maracas 💙
Subscriber #530! Nice video brother, thank you!
Thank you so much! And welcome aboard 😁😁
@@PeteGalea I bought a pair because I can't have my drums and thought these would be an easy, fun instrument to play. Well, it's fun but not so easy. Nothing like playing the drums 😅
@@iamhootch I have to agree on both points, there's nothing quite like the space to play a proper drumkit, but I've found the Asalato to be the most fun way for me to remain engaged with rhythm! Fun, and quite challenging!
Anyone else been stuck at 5 minutes 30 for months?
I'd be happy to answer any questions you have, maybe I can make a follow-up video elaborating on this one to help you out.
Thanks so much for putting these tutorials together. I find them incredibly helpful. Appreciate the offer of elaborating but honestly, I think I just need to improve on my co-ordination. I'll keep practicing.
@louisbriggs3342 if the string is too long it'll bounce badly. Hold them and pull the string on one end till you get resistance but the string isn't tight and tie the knot there. You should be able to fit one finger between the string and the back of your hand. It was a disaster with them until after i did this. Lmk if that helps.
This video is great in its own way, but for brand new learners, search for Hadrian Santos video. It does the best job I’ve seen of showing the correct form and tempo to get the basic rhythm going.
Hey Peter! Thanks so much for this video. You should go a little more into string length. I got mine yesterday and it was a mess untill i shortened the strings significantly. Once i made the adjustment it was dramatically easier. I passed it on in the comments below. Thanks again for this though. Ive come back to it about 10 times in the last few days lol. Its great!
Thank you very much for your feedback. I will make a video specifically on the rope length, as you're right, it's a very common issue/question. Take care! P
Hi Pete! Thank you for this amazing video!! I'd like to start this percussion and I was wondering if it would be better to get a plastic asalato as a beginner or maybe the material doesn't change anything to the technique?
Many thanks 😊
Plastic is way more durable, so it's a good idea :) happy practicing!
How to adjust to find best rope length for my hands? Also I do fine with catching the ball on the pinky side. But the thumb side catch? I think some even more beginner tutorial would help many.
Very interesting. I like the shake it all the time approach. Thank you! 🎵
Rope length is trial and error! See what works for you. And you don't need to catch it on the thumb side, so not sure what you mean in this case. Enjoy!
Thank you Peter for the quick reply. I will play with lenght. Thum side catch is something I've seen in another video. I will ask there, which makes sense when I think of it.
Thanks again!
I just bought my first set. I am EXTREMELY uncoordinated but I’m determined to learn this instrument. I have small hands and it feels like the balls are too far apart. Do I need to shorten the cord or just get used to it?
I really enjoyed this video. You make it look so easy!
Hey. I'm new to this as well. Small-ish hands. I followed the recommendations from websites as to how much slack (2 fingers) should work and the balls just kept bouncing out of my hands unless my catch was really perfect. I decided to hold them so the strings were pointing directly at me with a relaxed hand and took up the slack on one side and tie the knot exactly there. When i hold them now i can fit one finger and its snug.. Now I can grab it before it bounces. I got them yesterday and spent three hours on and off trying to get it and it didn't work at all. I managed to get the shake in about 20 minutes after I adjusted them. Managed a basic shake and catch today a couple of times. For me the difference was dramatic. Also- the string will stretch so you may have to tighten it up after some use. Lmk if it helps.
P.s. the finger measurement is under the string on the back of your hand. I wasn't clear.
Hey! I'll be making a video on string length specifically. Really and truly it's trial and error, but when holding them in your hand, enough slack behind your knuckles to fit one finger is a good start. Hope that helps until I make that video, cheers :)
i`d like to make a comment based in what i saw in assalatosampa people (lari finocchiaro), you shouldnt be twisting your wrists when moving, cuz it can result in injuries into it, the move itself is all around ur arm :)
besides that, great video, ill be following u and ur videos, im waiting for my materials to come, ill make an asalato of acrilic xmas balls and rice, if i get the taste of it, ill make other one with mache and polyepoxide
Interesting. Those guys make great asalato, I hope to buy some from them soon. But I'd certainly love to talk technique with them too! Their content is not in English though, as far as I've seen.
In terms of wrist/arm movement, I'd like to think my experience with studying drumstick technique has allowed me to be conscious enough of what I'm doing to not get injured. At the end of the day, listening to your body is the most important thing. All the best with your journey and thanks for your comment.
I've been playing for awhile but trying to get better. This video explaining about keeping them shaking was huge for me. I'll be watching all your videos. I have a said of the African gourd but would like plastic ones where I can adjust the rope. Any suggestions of a decent pair that will ship to the U.S. without charging an arm and a leg? I'm afraid to try any of the ones on Amazon. Thanks for all your help.
Hi Cathy! Thanks so much for your comment, I'm really glad you are finding my content helpful! The only brands I'm familiar with that are good quality are Kashaka UK and Asalato Sampa (i don't have any from AS but they look and sound great).. Im afraid I don't know of any manufacturers in the US.. Perhaps have a look if getting from those 2 brands could be viable. Thanks again and all the best!
@@PeteGalea Thanks, Pete. I'll take a look to see what they have and how much the shipping to the U.S. would be.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us all! So grateful.
I have a new pair of kashaka pros from kashaka uk and i cant do the proper "clash" noise between the do balls when they hit each others, because it seems like the rope is always on the way of the hit and mutes the clack souns...any advice on that ?
Thanks a lot !
You mean on the top or bottom part of the swing? For the top, make sure it's going OVER the thumb, I can't stress how important that is. In terms of the bottom, experiment with the length of the rope, or try relaxing your hand more. Hope that helps!
@@PeteGalea thank you so much, it's getting better! So kind of you to answer:)
Would you recommend to pactice the shaking with a metronome? And if so, which tempo would be best to start at?
Thanks 🙏 😊
Hmm, interesting idea! I never actually practiced shaker with a metronome. It's worth a try! I would just recommend trying some different tempos such as 60, 80, 100 for example, and see which ones are most comfortable. Try recording yourself too! Or maybe even just practice along to songs!! 😁
thanks for the video! managing to do pretty well but sometimes the dropped spinning asalato just starts going wild and spinning more up and down and a not across my fingers. What could help with improving this any ideas?
Just practice! And relax your hands :) enjoy the journey, its OK if it takes a while to get the hang of it. There's no rush!
Very good video. Just one question: is this normal that I cannot catch the ball once I through it out?
From what I've seen, catching it with the bottom of the hand on the way back in is something most people take a bit of time to get right. It's just about staying relaxed and not closing your hand too soon. Hope that helps! Enjoy :)
I'm a multi instrumentalist and totally new to the shaker. Never once would I ever underestimate the shaker or any instrument for that matter. True musicians will understand that. The triangle probably has some advanced techniques! I ordered the asalato but only received one piece. I'm going to learn with the one first but alternate hands. My one asalato seems to have the string much longer than yours. Is there a proper length for my hands spand? I'm going to have to watch this video many times. This is difficult.. my brain doesn't want to cooperate.
The triangle, too, should not be underestimated, haha! In terms of the length of the string it's about trial and error, see what works for you. I'm sure you'll figure it out with some practice. Cheers and enjoy!
Thank you for the video! Where did you get your Asalatos from?
Thank you for watching and commenting! I bought the Pro Clear model from Kashaka UK, they are great!
@@PeteGalea thank you. I bought some that can’t be adjusted and I think the rope is too short.
@@MattPoyntermusic I had the opposite problem with my first pair: they were too long. With an adjustable pair you can find the perfect length for your hands. Good luck! :)
How do you keep the ball in your hand without it slipping out while being relaxed? Plus the ball and string starts misaligning and swings over the top of my fingers
Not sure I understand what you mean entirely. Feel free to send me a video on Instagram, and I will do my best to help you.
I don't understand how you keep shaking when the ball is over your thumb. I have no trouble shaking normally, but when I let loose the second ball and it comes on my thumb, I can only bounce it back and stop the shaking
I just a really cheap pair of these. The cord is too long to allow for good contact? Is there an easy way to measure how long the cord should be for the size of my hand? Besides just cutting a little bit and retying until it feels right?
If its too long try taping down a portion of it onto one of the shakers, rather than cutting it. That worked well for me with my first set until I could get some adjustable ones. Hope that helps.
Hi Pete, great video! I was looking to buy a pair of kashaka's and noticed you didn't say anything about size. Do you have some input on the importance of the size of the balls or length of the string in relation to your hands?
Hey man! Sorry for the late reply. The size of the shaker balls is not that important to me unless you have massive hands, and the main thing is that you buy a pair with adjustable string length. I believe a standard pair will have 50mm shakers or something like that. Hope that helps!
@@PeteGalea Hi Pete. The ones in the video look like regular/medium Kashaka Pro's which are 45mm. These are an ideal size for most beginners - also great for experienced players like yourself :) They are also available in 50mm for larger hands & 38mm for smaller hands. All have fully adjustable ropes, so can be played by all hand sizes, but the ball size can/does make a difference to how easy/difficult it is to catch the kashaka - especially when first learning.
@@JonSterckx thanks for chiming in and confirming for everyone!!
I got a question, when you say "and at some point just let it go" .. which is the moment I should let it go? I find hard to calculate the delay between that and when the ball actually hits the other one (I am on my first day)
do you let it go like on the last quarter note of the shaking rhithm or..?
@@gioeledibello4742 let it go on the last upbeat. In other words the '4 and' if you're counting eighth notes :)
I'm having trouble catching the ball on the pinky side. Also my strings are slightly different lengths. Mine are plugged into the nut ones, not the knotted variety.
Keep practicing! And try to stay relaxed. You will get it! I can imagine the strings being different lengths might be a bit inconvenient, if they're not adjustable you can try taping down a small part of the string close to where its plugged in to the ball. That's what I had done with my first pair which were non adjustable, as a temporary fix. Keep trying 😁
Thanks for the tutorial did you find when you first started that your wrist was stiff? Is this normal for a beginner?
I think in general working on being relaxed is a big thing for beginners of any instrument. I've seen it a lot with my drum students in the past. Don't be afraid to drop the shaker, it's better to be verging on slightly too loose than too stiff. Always listen to your body :)
@@PeteGalea Thanks for your reply I am still practicing but your videos are a big help so thanks again
im struggling to catch the asalato back with my fingers when swinging back, are there any tricks? or actually just those ball "size does matters" ?
Size does not in fact matter 😹😹 just relax your hands and keep practicing. You got this!
Any ideas to increase the string length like 1/2” too 1” or do I just need to reorder. Seems I’d be remiss not attempted to fix myself? As personal an instrument as it is. This also is by far the best I’ve come across for basic info to get this instrument started. And I’ve been a std drummer for 30 + years.
Thank you for that, I'm glad you found my content helpful 😁 in terms of string length, if you don't have adjustable ones then I'd only be able to recommend a hack to shorten them, not lengthen them (taping down part of the string).. I'd definitely recommend getting a pair of adjustable ones if possible (you'll know for sure because the string goes all the way through each shaker with a knot on the outside). Hope that helps!
@@PeteGalea I have really tiny hands - forgive me if you've answered this already! But should the string be fairly tight over the knuckles when holding the two in fist? I currently have a gap of about 5cm and I think it might be making the throw-catch harder? Or maybe I am looking for excuses!
@@caithlinmercer7700 I'd say when holding them both in your hand, the string should not have much of a gap from the knuckles, maybe just a bit but 5cm sounds like too much for me. Hope that helps.
I'm having some trouble with my non dominant hand and I was wondering if you have any tips. So when it comes to playing with my right hand, they behave beautifully. Pretty much every time they swing around, the string is perpendicular with my fingers like it's supposed to be. But when I play it with my left hand, it's like I barely have any control over the swing even though I'm doing the exact same motion. Do you have any tips for combating this problem?
Have you tried practicing in front of a mirror? I've encountered this issue with my own practice and many of my drum students too. Generally I find using a mirror for the extra perspective can be helpful. Remember the physics are the same in each hand, so you may need to relax more, which you may not be used to doing with the weaker hand. Above all, be patient and keep trying! Hope that helps.
Just started to try and learn. My biggest problem is that I have real trouble getting a grip on the lower ball as it swings in. My fingers slip right of the surface of the balls (they're the plastic uk made ones). I'm thinking of roughing up the surface a bit, to ty and make my skin grip it more.
That could be an option, but may not be necessary. Often the bottom shaker flies out as you try to catch it because you need to relax more, and don't grab it so quickly. Good luck!
@@PeteGalea Thank you! I'll carry on practicing. I was the same impatient way when I learned to play the Bones. Oddly enough, learning those required the same relaxing of the hands, and slowing down, and suddenly they were almost playing themselves.
I am new to asalato. Nice lesson. Thank you! I think I understand it, but am still very uncoordinated. I really am having trouble catching the ball on its return back to my palm, under my pinkie finger. It clicks the ball then bounces back out of the bottom of my hand. Any tips? Thank you!
Stay relaxed! It usually does that when your hand is stiff, or you're trying too hard to catch it.. just let it do its thing :)
@@PeteGalea Thank you.
I'm having trouble with the click inside the hand. It kinda feels like it's too long for my hand. Are they certain sizes to go for? The rope is around 12,5 - 13 cm
If the rope is adjustable I'd recommend trying some different settings until you find the right length for you. I still adjust mine from time to time for a different feel. Hope you manage to sort it out! :)
Hello! Is it an instrument that is okay for any person to learn how to use or is it a close practice?
Also this is a wonderful video that really confirms I want to learn this instrument❤
Go for it!
I’ve had these kas kas for a couple months things are coming along nicelyI can spin both directions both hands catch on bottom and top fluently polyrhythms are coming along however my shake feels like it is not running smoothly through out all that’s going on. Another words feels like the shake is only happening in between the releasing and spinning this Feels awkward and doesn’t sound smooth or rhythmic😫 Help 😂👍🏻
Hi Robert! Thanks for your comment. I'm really glad things are coming along nicely for you, and that you're enjoying playing the Kas Kas.
As with most things, I'd suggest working on relaxing your motions, and ideally simplifying the way you're practicing. How does it feel when just playing the shake sound? I really think if you manage to work on the 'C' shape I mentioned in this video, it should be helpful, and you can try isolating each click and making sure the individual motions are relaxed, before joining them together. If this still doesn't help, feel free to send me a video of you playing on Instagram, and perhaps I can help better that way? Lastly, stay tuned for Part 2 of this video which will be coming out in just under 2 weeks, and that might also be helpful to you.
Thanks again and happy practicing!
Thanks for getting back 👍🏻 you brought to my attention that even my shake alone feels somewhat odd I guess I could spend a few days alone really concentrating I’m getting comfortable with that. It’s crazy how something that looks relatively easy can be tricky! Anyway I’ll definitely work on that and be looking forward to your part two 👍🏻👍🏻
@@robertdeleno7143 absolutely! It's my pleasure. And as Claus Hessler often says: simple does not mean easy! Take care and all the best :)
The moment i try to let the shaker start the clicks , the whole ryhtem stops from being fluid , i dont understand exactly when to let it go from my hand 😅
If you had to count "1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and" , you'd let go on the 4 AND for it to click at the top on beat one. Keep practicing, you will manage!
Where can buy one for me. I am from India. Any online buying source?
Not sure about postage to India but I use Kashaka UK. Other brands also exist such as Asalato Sampa, Okume Percussion and Kosh Kash Moussa but I've not used any of those before. Check eBay/Etsy too maybe? Hope that helps!
Kiffness brought me here
Where can i buy some?
I use Kashaka UK's Pro model. But I know other companies exist such as Asalato Sampa, Okume Percussion and others but I have yet to try those for myself.
Oh and also there's a guy on Instagram called KoshKash Moussa who sells authentic handmade ones but again, I haven't tried them myself yet. Good luck on your search!
Where should i get one?
Asalato Sampa, Kashaka UK, KoshKashMoussa... check out my other videos
Asalato Sampa, Kashaka UK, KoshKashMoussa... check out my other videos
I think I need longer strings
the algo sent me.
Welcome! Glad to have you around :)
I picked up a set of kashaka pros after watching your videos but what got me looking at kashaka to begin with was this guy that plays one with one hand and a handpan with the other -
ruclips.net/video/EDQgU1CPpis/видео.html
I own a handpan so I thought it would be a cool thing to add. However, I'm still unable to get the second crack out of one swing like he does. Do you have a video that demonstrates that? I'm assuming it's a loose catch with a crack and then he's using his thumb to push them together for the second crack but so far I'm unable to reproduce it.
Hi there! So cool you're playing kashaka and welcome to the community! I also really appreciate your viewership and leaving a comment.
I believe you're referring to palm clicks. There is more than one way of doing this. While I don't have any videos about them currently, such a video is in my high priority list right now, I'm just sorting out moving house and finding a new studio and I'll be back making videos regularly soon. I hope you'll stick around and I'll have some more videos for you very soon! Take care
kurang jauh mainnya bang, ada nama lainnya lato-lato kalau di Indonesia
Harder than I think
Don't give up! Enjoy the process :)
@@PeteGalea Thank you, and a metronome helps me a lot for practice shanking.
@pete I have jus bought a pair of them and I am almost ready to send them back to Amazon 🤣 it seems impossible to me. And also, my ones are not very noisy.. Theo are made of cork outside… any advice is welcome 🤍
Take your time and enjoy the journey of practicing! In the beginning it took me a while to get the hang of it. Don't give up, and have fun!