once an instrument used for religious purposes to worship the African Orishas. The batá drums are now widely used in Latin American and afro-Caribbean music. Bombo Main article: bombo drum The bombo drum (also known as the bombo criollo) is another drum commonly seen in afro-Caribbean music. This drum is of South American origin and is commonly used in indigenous music of the region. The bombo drum is composed of a large, hollow wooden drum with an animal skin for the drumhead. Sound is produced on the bombo drum by striking the middle of the drumhead with the hand and by striking the rim of the drumhead with a small stick or other tool. Congas and bongos Main articles: Conga drum, bongo drum Congas are tall, barrel-like, single-headed drums, usually played using the hands. Bongos are similar to congas in shape, however, they are smaller and commonly played in pairs. Bongos are tapered, single headed drums that are usually composed of a wooden base with an animal hide drumhead. There are two variations of bongo drums that produce different pitches. The macho bongo produces a high pitch, popping like sound and is referred to as the male bongo. In contrast, the hembra bongo is considered the female of the pair and produces low, deep sounds. The congas and bongos originated in Cuba among African slaves and are key instruments of the afro-Caribbean music genre. These drums are reminiscent of other African style drums that inspired them such as the batá, yuka and makuta drums. Hand-held percussion Claves Main article: claves Claves (also called palitos) consist of two short, round pieces of wood which are struck together to produce sound. Modern day claves originated in Cuba and are reminiscent of early percussive instruments present in ancient, indigenous civilisations all around the world, including Africa and South America. Claves are used to maintain a rhythm known as the ‘clave’, or the key. Maracas Main article: Maracas Maracas (also called boîte à de clous, caraxa, mussamba) are handheld rattles consisting of a hollow vessel (such as a Gourds or Turtle shells), filled with small items (such as Seeds, nuts or shells), attached to a handle. The Maraca is shaken to produce a rattle sound which is used to maintain tempo and rhythm. Different versions of maracas originated in South America and Africa. They were often played to accompany dancers and other musicians. Variations