Scratcher (instrument)

In the musical traditions of Trinidad and Tobago, a twin island republic in the Lesser Antilles, a scratcher is a percussion instrument. It is a descendant of the guiro, and is played in a similar fashion. It is most commonly found in the rhythm section of a steelband.^[1]^[2]

Construction

Scratchers are generally made by punching hundreds of nail holes in a sheet of aluminum, creating a texture. The sheet is then rolled into a cylinder shape with the textured side facing out. A handle is then added to the side. Scratchers vary in length in diameter but a common size consists of a length of 30 inches and a diameter of 4 inches. The pattern and density of nail holes can also vary, which can have an effect on the sound of the instrument.

Use

A comb with teeth (sometimes a fan-style afro pick) is scraped along the texture in a set, syncopated rhythm. This pattern is meant to interlock with those of the other instruments of the rhythm section. it is also used in the engine room section in a steel band.in addition, it is used in Parang.

References

^ Lornell, Kip; Rasmussen, Anne K. (2016-01-04). The Music of Multicultural America: Performance, Identity, and Community in the United States. Univ. Press of Mississippi. p. 306. ISBN 978-1-62674-612-1.
^ Berkley, Rebecca (2006). The Illustrated Complete Musical Instruments Handbook. Flame Tree. p. 78. ISBN 978-1-84451-520-2.

[1] Lornell, Kip; Rasmussen, Anne K. (2016-01-04). The Music of Multicultural America: Performance, Identity, and Community in the United States. Univ. Press of Mississippi. p. 306. ISBN 978-1-62674-612-1.

[2] Berkley, Rebecca (2006). The Illustrated Complete Musical Instruments Handbook. Flame Tree. p. 78. ISBN 978-1-84451-520-2.

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