Castanet workshop

Castanets are one of simplest and oldest musical instruments of all those that have reached us today.

The workshop exhibited was donated by Seville-born Manuel Vela Martínez, commonly known as Filigrana. He is probably the most popular artisan in this product in Andalusia and his castanets are known by his nickname.

Despite the simplicity of these instruments, the production techniques require significant study and experience to obtain the greatest sonority from both the wood most often used «red ebony», and other more recently introduced materials. This quality of sound is what Spanish classical dance and flamenco professionals demand, a factor that has ensured the survival of this trade.