Toca Acrylic Piccolo Cuica: A Quirky Squeak from inside a Glass House!

It's not glass but it's see-through and about as unconventional a shell as one could imagine for a cuica. By way of explanation, the cuica is one of the most intriguing voices in world music. Most commonly associated with the Brazilian Samba, it is found in altered form in the musics of other cultures. The samba, however, would be most lacking without the cuica. The undulating tones of the cuica help define the samba's cultural and rhythmical experience.

The new Toca Acrylic Piccolo Cuica will be a fresh voice instantly embraced in samba, as well as other world music and creative styles. The lightweight acrylic shell, which affords optimum resonance and reflection, is a perfect sound cavity for the many voices of the cuica. Topped with an 8" authentic goatskin head, the acrylic cylinder has a depth of 9-1/2". The shell and head, fully tunable with supplied wrench, emit a higher-range piccolo voice that will be a welcome addition to the cuica family. The combination of the manipulation and vibration of the internal bamboo stick and the non-traditional shell material is compelling.

Black powder rims and hardware contrast with the smoky transparence of the Toca Acrylic Piccolo Cuica shell and will instantly transform the look and sound of samba lines and other percussive gatherings. An adjustable strap is provided to aid the player in supporting the instrument while he/she performs the customary techniques, including altering head pressure and rubbing the bamboo stick.

The Toca Acrylic Cuica will prove a stable, commanding timbre, suitable for players and aficionados.