Asalato - Kosika - Patica - Pachika, & other names
The kosika has evolved from West Africa and is known by many names. In Ghana alone it is known by the names kitikpo, televi, asalatua, akasa, bakita, kokosiko, and kosika
Although more contemporily thought of as a percussive instrument, in Ghana, it is a children's toy. Children will pass the time clacking the gourds, creating a various rhythms.
They are made of two small gourds filled with beans and connected by a string. One gourd is held in the hand and the other is swung from side-to-side around the hand, creating a "clack" upon impact.
Associations
World Patica Association - This site is not in english, but if you search for it on google, you can have google translate the page for you.
Top Web Sites
Patica.com - A nice site with instructional demos. Some of the site does not translate to English, but the videos are easy to find.
Kosika.com - Videos, history, and a list of festivals
from World Patica Association - Descriptions of a half dozen tricks
Vendors
Baalabaajo.com - Baala Baajo is the inspiration of accomplished Ghanaian singer, dancer and musician, Nii Armah. A sensitive teacher and a dynamic performer, Nii Armah has a true passion for the music and culture of his native Ghana. He is committed to bringing about an understanding of diversity and empowerment through the arts and this commitment led to the development of Baala Baajo.
Rhythm Traders - A supplier of African percussion instruments
There are lots of videos on YouTube. Here are a couple good ones!
Rhythm with Asalato
Glow In the Dark Asalato
Suggest a Link
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