Clave & Cowbell Rhythms

Clave is a rhythmic pattern which originated in Cuba and Cuban rhythms largely derive from Africa.  The Clave is at the heart of West African, Cuban, and Latin music.  In essence, the other rhythms and melodies are  based around the clave rhythm. 

The Clave is not only a rhythm, but is also the name of an instrument, which consists of two, thick sticks.  Traditionally, the sticks are made of hardwood, but now there are some synthetic claves on the market.  In either case the sticks are hard and make a sharp, clicking-like sound.  The picture above shows a pair of claves and the technique for holding them.  Notice that one stick rests in one hand while the other stick is held in the other hand and is struck against the stick the rests.  Also, notice that in the hand which hold one stick still, there is a slight space between the clave and the palm; this allows the clave to resonate and produce that cutting, clicking sound.  So, traditionally, the clave rhythm is played on the claves.  However, the clave rhythm can be played on any instruments and it is common to be played on congas, djembes and other hand percussion. 

The most common type of clave is called "son clave", named by the Cuban musical style, son (pronounced: sohn).

The above is the 3-2 son clave.  The 3 refers to the first bar, which has 3 strokes and the 2 refers to the second bar, which as 2 strokes.   In addition, the bars can be reversed so the 2 part is the first bar and the 3 part is in the second bar.  In such cases, the rhythm is called the 2-3 clave.

Another type of clave, which is very popular in Salsa is called the rumba clave.  Like the son clave, the rumba calve can be a 3-2 or a 2-3.  Below is an example of the 3-2 rumba clave (notice how the third note in the first bar is on the "and" of the 4.  This change is  the only difference between the rumba and son claves).