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Traditional musical instruments from Brazil have played a crucial role in the countrys diverse cultural and longstanding musical heritage.
In this article we will introduce you to a variety of the more prominent traditional instruments of Brazil.
Highlighting what they look like, how and where they are played and their origins, we’ll also spotlight some of the more famous musicians and music genres which have made the instruments so popular over time.
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Traditional String Instruments of Brazil
1. Cavaquinho
A small stringed instrument resembling a ukulele, used in samba and choro musical genres.
The Cavaquinho is a small, four-stringed instrument resembling a ukulele, but it holds a distinct place in Brazilian music.
Typically, it measures about 50 centimeters in length, with a flat, narrow body made primarily of wood such as spruce or Brazilian rosewood. The strings are usually steel or gut, which contributes to its bright and jangly tone.
Originating from Portugal, the cavaquinho was adapted in Brazil where it became integral to a variety of music styles, especially samba and choro.
In these genres, it often plays a rhythmic and harmonic foundation, delivering quick, upbeat plucking patterns that energize the music. Its lively sound helps set the pace and maintain the lively atmosphere typical of Brazilian musical gatherings.
Among the notable musicians who have mastered the cavaquinho, Waldir Azevedo stands out.
He was a celebrated Brazilian composer and musician, famous for his innovative techniques and compositions that showcased the cavaquinho’s adaptability beyond traditional rhythms, significantly shaping its role in Brazilian music culture. His influence helped elevate the cavaquinho from a folk instrument to a key component of mainstream Brazilian music.
Click here to find out more facts about the Cavaquinho instrument.
2. Viola Caipira
A ten-string guitar used in folk music, especially in rural areas.
The Viola Caipira is a traditional Brazilian string instrument that closely resembles a guitar but is distinctly recognized for its smaller size and richer sound.
Crafted mainly from wood, such as rosewood or cedar, it features ten steel strings arranged in five courses. The strings produce a resonant, bright, and somewhat twangy sound that deeply enriches the musical fabric of Brazilian folk traditions.
Originating from rural areas in Brazil, the Viola Caipira is fundamental to the música caipira genre, which translates to “country music” in Portuguese.
This genre is a cornerstone of Brazilian cultural identity, especially in the countryside of São Paulo and Minas Gerais states.
The instrument’s sound and playing style evoke stories and emotions tied to the rural lifestyle and traditions of Brazil.
Over time, the Viola Caipira has been popularized by significant musicians like Inezita Barroso and Almir Sater. These artists have played pivotal roles in bringing the rustic charm of Viola Caipira to broader audiences, celebrating and preserving its cultural heritage through their music.
Click here to find out more facts about the Viola Caipira instrument.
3. Rabeca
A fiddle common in northeastern Brazilian folk traditions.
The Rabeca is a traditional Brazilian string instrument similar to a violin but with a rustic twist. It usually has a flat back and a slightly less curved front, giving it a distinctive shape.
The main materials used to construct the rabeca are wood for the body and horsehair for the bow, which is used to stroke the strings and produce sound.
This instrument emits a raw, earthy tone that resonates deeply, quite different from the refined sound of a classical violin.
It has since become a staple in northeastern Brazilian folk music, especially in genres like forró and fandango. Its sound and style have allowed it to become a voice for the stories and emotions of the common people, particularly in rural areas.
One notable musician who has championed the rabeca is Siba Veloso, known simply as Siba. His work has helped revitalize interest in the rabeca among younger generations, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary Brazilian music.
Click here to find out more facts about the Rabeca instrument.
4. Bandolim
A mandolin used primarily in choro music.
The Bandolim, also known as the Brazilian mandolin, is a captivating string instrument cherished in Brazil’s traditional and contemporary music scenes.
Physically, it resembles the European mandolin but often has a flat back and slightly larger body.
Typically crafted from wood, with steel strings stretched across a fretted fingerboard, the Bandolim is known for its bright, resonant sound that can vary from melodious and sweet to lively and percussive, depending on how it’s played.
Originating from the European mandolin that made its way to Brazil, the Bandolim was embraced in Brazilian choro music, a genre known for its complexity and expressiveness. Over time, this instrument has become a staple in samba and other Brazilian music styles.
Among the notable musicians who have mastered the Bandolim is Jacob do Bandolim, one of the most famous Brazilian composers and instrumentalists.
His virtuosic playing and compositions have significantly shaped the way the Bandolim is perceived and played, ensuring its place as a cherished icon in Brazilian music.
Click here to find out more facts about the Bandolim instrument.
5. Viola de Cocho
A unique, boat-shaped string instrument from the Central-West region of Brazil, particularly Mato Grosso.
The Viola de Cocho is a traditional Brazilian string instrument known for its distinctive boat-shaped body.
It is primarily crafted from a single piece of wood, usually from the Mulungu tree, with strings made from animal gut or, more recently, nylon. The instrument’s body is hollowed out, and its top is covered with animal hide, contributing to its unique, resonant sound that is deeper and more mellow than a regular acoustic guitar.
Originating from the Central-West region of Brazil, particularly in the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, the Viola de Cocho plays a central role in the folk music of these areas. It is often used in Cururu and Siriri, two traditional music and dance forms that are integral to local cultural celebrations and religious ceremonies.
While there are no widely recognized international musicians who play the Viola de Cocho, it is celebrated by local artisans and musicians who are dedicated to preserving its cultural heritage.
The instrument is a symbol of regional identity and pride, and its making and playing techniques are passed down through generations, maintaining its significance in Brazilian folklore and community gatherings.
Click here to find out more facts about the Viola de Cocho instrument.
6. Guitarra Baiana
A small electric guitar with a very high pitch, often used in axé and traditional samba-reggae music in Bahia.
The Guitarra Baiana is a small Brazilian electric guitar noted for its high-pitched sound. It features a compact body, typically constructed from wood, and is equipped with metal strings. The neck is slender, making it easier to play fast melodies, which are characteristic of the genres it’s associated with.
Sonically, the Guitarra Baiana produces a clear, sharp tone that can pierce through the rhythmic beats of Brazilian music, allowing it to stand out even amidst large bands. This instrument is especially important in the genres of axé and samba-reggae, where its vibrant and energetic sound complements the lively rhythms.
Originally developed in the state of Bahia in the 1940s, the Guitarra Baiana evolved from the cavaquinho, a smaller traditional string instrument. It quickly became popular in Carnival bands, helping to shape the sound of modern Brazilian music festivals.
Prominent musicians such as Armandinho have played a significant role in popularizing the Guitarra Baiana. Armandinho, in particular, is known for his virtuosic playing and has been instrumental in integrating the guitar into various Brazilian music styles, enhancing its presence and influence in the music scene.
Click here to find out more facts about the Guitarra Baiana instrument.
Traditional Brazilian Wind Instruments
7. Pífano
A type of fife or small flute, used in northeastern Brazil.
The Pífano is a traditional Brazilian wind instrument resembling a small flute. It is typically made from bamboo, a natural and widely available material, giving it a rustic appearance. The pífano has six finger holes and produces a high-pitched, piercing sound that carries well over long distances. This characteristic makes it especially popular in outdoor settings and rural festivals.
Originating from the northeastern regions of Brazil, the pífano is deeply rooted in the folk traditions of the area.
It is primarily used in bands known as “bandas de pífanos,” which perform at various local celebrations and religious events.
The music played by these bands is lively and rhythmic, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Brazilian culture.
The pífano has played a significant role in traditional Brazilian music genres, particularly in the genre of forró, a type of dance music that features fast-paced, joyful tunes.
While there are no widely recognized musicians known internationally for playing the pífano, it remains an integral part of folk music ensembles in Brazil, cherished for its unique sound and cultural significance.
Click here to find out more facts about the Pifano instrument.
8. Flauta Doce
A recorder-like instrument used in various Brazilian music styles.
The Flauta Doce, (known as the recorder in English), is a woodwind instrument cherished in various musical genres across Brazil.
It is typically crafted from wood or plastic, contributing to its lightweight and portable nature.
The instrument is equipped with a mouthpiece, a straight tubular body, and finger holes along its length which, when covered in different combinations, produce a wide range of notes.
The sound of the Flauta Doce is clear and bright, capable of both soft, melodious tones and more piercing sounds, depending on how it is played. Its simple structure makes it ideal for learners and skilled musicians alike.
Originating from medieval Europe, the Flauta Doce found its way into Brazilian music where it adapted into local traditions. In Brazil, it is prominently used in folk music and educational settings, teaching young musicians the fundamentals of melody and rhythm.
While not associated with prominent musicians like modern showy instruments, the Flauta Doce holds a foundational place in music education and traditional ensemble performances in Brazil.
Traditional Percussion Instruments Brazil
9. Pandeiro
A tambourine-like instrument essential in samba music.
The pandeiro is a traditional Brazilian percussion instrument resembling a tambourine. It is typically about 10 inches in diameter, with a frame made of wood or fiberglass.
The pandeiro’s head is made from animal skin, like goat skin, or synthetic materials, which are tightly stretched over the frame to create a resonant surface that produces a crisp sound when struck.
Along the rim, several metal jingles, called platinelas, are attached in pairs. These jingles add a bright, shimmering sound that complements the drumming noise.
The sound of the pandeiro can vary widely depending on how it is played. It can produce deep bass tones when struck in the center, and sharper, snappier sounds when tapped near the edge.
The pandeiro is a very adaptable instrument crucial to many forms of Brazilian music, including samba, capoeira, and choro. Its adaptability allows it to fit into various musical contexts, providing rhythm and melody.
Originally brought to Brazil by the Portuguese, the pandeiro has become a symbol of national identity in Brazilian music.
Notable musicians like Jackson do Pandeiro have popularized it further, using it to infuse traditional rhythms with contemporary musical styles, thus celebrating and evolving Brazilian cultural heritage.
10. Surdo
A large bass drum used in many forms of Brazilian music, especially samba.
The surdo is a large, cylindrical drum that serves as the heartbeat of Brazilian samba music.
It has a deep, resonant sound that provides the foundational beat in samba performances, helping to maintain the rhythm and guide the pace of the music.
Constructed primarily from metal, such as aluminum or steel, the surdo also features a drumhead made from animal skin or synthetic materials, which is tightened over the open ends of the cylinder to produce sound.
Traditionally, the surdo is played with a mallet in one hand, striking the center of the drumhead to create its characteristic deep, booming sound.
The other hand is often used to dampen the sound, allowing for variations in tone and rhythm.
Originating from the Afro-Brazilian communities, the surdo’s roots can be traced back to African drumming traditions, which heavily influenced many aspects of Brazilian culture and music.
In samba music, the surdo is essential for creating the pulse that dancers follow. It has also been featured in other Brazilian music genres, adapting over time to fit the evolving musical landscape.
Prominent musicians and samba schools often feature skilled surdo players who are celebrated for their ability to drive and energize performances, making this instrument a central icon in Brazilian musical traditions.
11. Atabaque
A hand drum used in Afro-Brazilian religious music and capoeira.
The Atabaque is a traditional Brazilian percussion instrument that resembles a drum. It is tall and cylindrical, often made from wooden staves bound together by metal hoops, similar to a barrel.
The top is covered with a drumhead made from animal skin, usually goat or cow, which is tightened over the wooden body to produce sound. When played, it produces deep, resonant tones that can vary in pitch depending on how tight the skin is and the size of the drum.
Originating from African influences, the atabaque is essential in Afro-Brazilian religious ceremonies, including Candomblé and Umbanda, where it is used to accompany chants and dances, helping to induce a spiritual atmosphere.
It’s also found in capoeira, a martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. In these contexts, the atabaque’s rhythm helps to guide the movements of the practitioners.
Over time, this instrument has not only retained its cultural significance but has also been embraced by various Brazilian music genres, enhancing their rhythmic foundation.
While there are many adept atabaque players, notable musicians like Mestre Bimba have helped popularize the instrument globally through capoeira.
12. Cuíca
A friction drum with a distinctive squeaky sound, commonly heard in samba.
The Cuíca is a unique percussion instrument widely used in Brazilian music, especially in the lively rhythms of samba.
Physically, the cuíca looks somewhat like a drum and consists mainly of a cylindrical shell made from metal or wood. At one end of the cylinder, a drumhead, usually made from animal skin, is tightly stretched.
A bamboo stick is affixed to the center of this drumhead on the inside, which is the key to the cuíca’s distinctive sound.
When played, the musician rubs the bamboo stick with a wet cloth while pressing the fingers of the other hand against the drumhead from the outside.
This action produces a high-pitched, squeaky sound reminiscent of a monkey’s call, which is why the cuíca is sometimes called a “laughing drum.”
Originating from African instruments brought to Brazil by enslaved people, the cuíca has become a staple in carnival parades and samba music, contributing to the festive atmosphere with its vibrant sounds.
While not often highlighted for individual musicianship in the same way as other instruments, the cuíca’s role is pivotal in creating the complex layers of rhythm and sound that define traditional Brazilian music.
13. Tamborim
A small, frame drum played with a stick, used in samba bands.
The Tamborim is a small yet vibrant percussion instrument, fundamental in Brazilian samba music.
Physically, it resembles a tiny drum, about six inches in diameter, with a shallow frame. The body is typically made of metal, although plastic versions exist, and it is topped with a synthetic head, tightly stretched to produce a high, sharp sound when struck.
The tamborim is played with a stick, or sometimes, multiple flexible sticks bound together, which provide a rapid-fire rhythm that is piercing and lively, cutting through the melodies of other instruments in a samba band.
Originating in Brazil, the tamborim holds a cherished place in the performance of samba music, contributing significantly to the genre’s energetic and syncopated rhythm patterns.
Over time, it has also found its way into other music styles, such as bossa nova and funk, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal.
While there are no widely recognized musicians known primarily for the tamborim, it is a staple in the ensembles of many famous samba schools and performers, where it continues to energize crowds and celebrate Brazilian cultural traditions.
14. Agogô
Consists of two or more bells; used in samba and Candomblé.
The Agogô is a captivating percussion instrument fundamental to Brazilian music, particularly in samba and Candomblé. Physically, the agogô consists of two or more cone-shaped metal bells of varying sizes connected by a metal rod.
This simple design is traditionally made from wrought iron or steel, contributing to its unique and resonant sound. When struck with a stick, the agogô produces a clear, high-pitched tone that can vary in pitch depending on the size of the bell.
Originating from African influences, particularly from Yoruba culture, the agogô has deep roots in religious ceremonies but has seamlessly transitioned into secular music genres over time.
Its sharp, penetrating sound helps maintain rhythm and can also be used to call attention or signal transitions in musical pieces.
While not typically associated with specific famous musicians due to its supportive role in ensembles, the agogô remains a staple in many traditional and contemporary Brazilian bands, embodying the rhythmic soul of Brazil’s rich musical panorama.
15. Berimbau
A single-string percussion instrument, a musical bow, from capoeira.
The Berimbau is a unique Brazilian musical instrument resembling a musical bow. It consists of a wooden bow about 4 to 5 feet long (verga), with a single steel wire (arame) stretched between its ends.
Attached to this bow is a gourd (cabaça), which acts as a resonator to amplify the sound. To play it, a musician strikes the wire with a stick, while simultaneously using a stone or coin to alter the pitch and a shaker (caxixi) to add rhythm.
The berimbau produces a rhythmic, twangy sound that is central to the practice of capoeira, a martial art that blends dance, acrobatics, and music.
Originating from African slaves brought to Brazil, the berimbau’s sound has become a symbol of cultural resistance and identity. It holds a vital place in traditional Brazilian music, especially in capoeira circles.
Notably, Mestre Bimba and Mestre Pastinha, significant figures in the history of capoeira, are renowned for their mastery of the berimbau, using its music to guide the flow and intensity of capoeira games.
16. Repinique
A hand drum used in samba schools, often played with a stick.
The Repinique is a traditional Brazilian percussion instrument that plays a key role in the vibrant rhythms of samba music.
This drum is cylindrical and typically made from metal, with synthetic or animal skin heads stretched over both ends. It is smaller and taller than some other drums, usually measuring about 30 centimeters in diameter and 30 to 40 centimeters in height, making it ideal for carrying and playing in parades and festivals.
The repinique produces a sharp, cutting sound that stands out even in a large samba band. Its tone is higher-pitched compared to other drums, which helps it serve as a lead instrument, guiding the rhythm and signaling transitions in the music.
This drum is traditionally played with a stick in one hand, while the other hand controls the tone and pitch by pressing on the drumhead.
Originating in the samba schools of Brazil, the repinique has been central to the evolution of samba and other Brazilian music genres. It’s a staple in Carnival parades, contributing to the energetic and dynamic atmosphere.
Significant musicians who have popularized this instrument include players from prominent samba schools such as Mangueira and Salgueiro, who use the repinique to captivate and energize audiences during performances.
17. Zabumba
A large bass drum played with a mallet or stick, used in forró music.
The Zabumba is a captivating percussion instrument fundamental to the music genre known as forró, a popular style in northeastern Brazil.
Physically, the zabumba resembles a large drum, about 20 inches in diameter, that players carry with a strap over their shoulder. It’s made from a wooden cylinder with animal skin stretched over both ends.
One side of the drum is typically played with a mallet to produce deep, resonant bass tones, while the other side is struck with a lighter stick for sharper, contrasting sounds.
The zabumba’s deep and rhythmic sound sets the foundational beat in forró music, driving the dance and maintaining the tempo. Its origins can be traced back to the cultural melting pot of Portuguese, African, and indigenous influences in Brazil, which blended to create its unique sound landscape.
Notably, significant musicians such as Luiz Gonzaga have famously played the zabumba, popularizing forró music across Brazil and introducing this infectious rhythm to a wider audience.
The instrument’s lively beat and cultural significance have made it a beloved symbol in traditional Brazilian festivities.
18. Ganzá
A shaker made from a metal cylinder filled with dry seeds or metal beads.
The Ganzá is a traditional Brazilian percussion instrument, resembling a cylindrical shaker. It’s crafted primarily from a metal or plastic tube, enclosed at both ends and filled with small, hard materials like seeds or metal beads. When shaken, the Ganzá produces a distinctive, rhythmic rustling sound, integral to the samba and other Brazilian music genres.
Originating in Brazil, the Ganzá is deeply rooted in the cultural and musical traditions of the country. It’s especially prominent in Carnival celebrations, where its sound complements the lively, energetic atmosphere. This instrument plays a key role in ensemble settings, helping to maintain rhythm and adding texture to the music.
While the Ganzá might not be as prominently featured as other instruments in terms of solo performances, it is a staple in groups and bands that specialize in traditional Brazilian music. Its presence is essential for creating the authentic soundscapes that define genres like samba and bossa nova.
Other Brazilian Instruments
19. Triângulo
A triangular metal instrument struck with a metal bar, used in forró.
The Brazilian Triângulo, or simply the triangle, is a percussion instrument consisting of a thin steel rod bent into an equilateral triangle shape. It is typically about 12 inches on each side, although sizes can vary. Players use a small metal beater to strike the triangle, producing a bright, clear ringing sound that pierces through other musical sounds, making it a key component in traditional Brazilian music.
Originating in Europe, the triangle found a special place in Brazilian folklore and is essential in forró, a genre of music that blends European, African, and Indigenous influences. This instrument’s simplicity and distinctive sound have helped it maintain its status in various folk music settings, contributing to its rhythmic and melodic foundations.
Notably, the Triângulo is vital during the Festa Junina, a Brazilian celebration with music and dance, where it helps dictate the pace and excitement of the performances. While specific famous musicians known primarily for playing the triangle are rare, its ubiquitous presence in Brazilian ensembles makes it a cherished symbol of Brazilian cultural heritage.
20. Afoxé
A beaded gourd instrument used in Afro-Brazilian music such as afoxé music.
The Afoxé is a traditional Brazilian percussion instrument that resembles a large beaded necklace. It is primarily made of a gourd, which serves as a resonating chamber, and is covered in a netting adorned with numerous hardwood beads. When shaken, the beads strike the gourd, producing a distinctive, rhythmic rattling sound. This sound is often associated with lively and vibrant music, typical of Brazilian cultural celebrations.
Originating from African influences in Brazil, the Afoxé is deeply rooted in the Candomblé religious traditions, where it is used in rituals and ceremonies.
Over time, its use has expanded into various Brazilian music genres, particularly in samba and axé, where it adds a unique flavor to the rhythmic ensemble.
The Afoxé is not only a musical instrument but also a symbol of cultural resistance and identity, especially within the Afro-Brazilian communities.
One notable musician who popularized the Afoxé outside of traditional settings is Carlinhos Brown, a Brazilian percussionist and singer. His performances have highlighted the instrument’s ability to bridge traditional and contemporary music styles.
21. Chocalho
A type of rattle made from metal jingles, used in samba and other musical forms.
The Brazilian chocalho is a percussion instrument primarily made of lightweight metal. It consists of multiple small jingles attached to a frame, which the musician shakes to produce sound. The chocalho’s shimmering, bright tone adds a rhythmic sparkle to music, making it indispensable in various Brazilian music genres like samba and axé.
Originating from Brazil, the chocalho holds a special place in traditional celebrations and cultural festivals. It is particularly prominent in Brazilian carnivals, where it helps create the lively, pulsating rhythms that are synonymous with the event. Over time, its role has expanded into other music styles, always serving to enhance the festive, communal atmosphere of the music.
Notable musicians who have used the chocalho include members of traditional samba schools and Brazilian bands, who skillfully wield these instruments to energize crowds and enrich the musical texture of their performances.
As you will have read from our article, Brazil’s diverse landscape of musical instruments reflects the rich tapestry of its culture and history. From the rhythmic beats of the chocalho to the haunting melodies of the berimbau, the diverse range of instruments described are central to the musical identity of Brazil and the wider South American region.
If you would like to learn more about the traditional musical instruments of the region, check out our many other articles on South American instruments and musical genres.
