The maracas, also known as rumba shakers or samba balls, are a kind of shaker equipped with handles, which can be used in sets of two. This South-American percussion instrument adds a nice drive to your music. Most maracas contain seeds that produce a rustling or ticking sound, depending on your playing style. Originally, maracas were made of gourds, but modern versions are made of wood or plastic. Maracas are often heard in music genres such as Latin, pop and classical music.