Asalato/Kashaka - Your First Lesson!!

[@jeremybuckets]

Echoing the video and a lot of the comments - do not underestimate the shake. If you rush that step it's really easy to learn the wrong lesson about how your hand and wrist should move during the tosses which will hurt you later. It really should feel the balls effortlessly toss themselves when you have the shake down. I used to play pit percussion so I've experimented with all sorts of weird instruments, but this is by far the most fun I've ever had learning something new. And my neighbors probably hate me.

[@PeteGalea]

Hehe, dont worry too much about the neighbours ;) Or if necessary, go practice in the park like I do! I totally agree, the shake is so necessary to get down to establish your flow. Happy practicing!

[@NspireWalker]

Thank you for this comment, so I can make sure I get it down.

[@lindathompson4275]

Thank you. Mine came today. My arm is tired. I just learned about them and ordered them the same day on Amazon. I play the drums in an African Drum Circle. I’m happy to have a new instrument to bring. I live near Raleigh, North Carolina 🇺🇸. I Love learning something new. I am 78 year old. You are a good teacher. I promise I will be practicing.

[@for_fox_aches]

Lol same story. Mine are coming tomorrow.

[@PeteGalea]

That's fantastic to hear! Enjoy your practice and thanks for checking out my video. All the best!

[@NspireWalker]

I desire to be a part of a drum circle and have my team a part.

[@cherie.adendorff]

I really should have paid more attention to that egg shaker in primary school. Just got mine this evening and feeling so intimidated but also stubbornly inspired. Thanks for making it look so easy!

[@michellerodrigues2570]

So grateful to discover your tutorial video Pete. Just got my first pair of Kashaka’s today. I bought them because I really struggle with rhythmic movements, and figured this might be a good way to develop my sense of coordination and rhythm. I found this tutorial super helpful because you emphasise getting the shake and fluidity of motion established first. I’ll just start there, and will keep practicing daily! Also loving the artwork in the background!

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks so much for your comment 😁 I'm really glad you've found the video helpful. I'm sure with some practice you will soon start seeing results! Have fun!! Also, the artwork was off a targeted ad online, thought it was too cool not to buy it 😹😹

[@Entity1782_Offical]

This was super helpful as someone who just discovered this existed and it was super fun to watch! I hope to see many more videos from you in the future ❤

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you found it helpful, and many more music/rhythm videos will come :)

[@punkrocker1377]

Thanks for the help. Been a percussionist for 20 years and the asalato is one of the few instruments in which mastery has eluded me. But this video helped so much

[@PeteGalea]

I'm really glad to hear that! Thanks for watching, and feel free to check out my other asalato videos too. Cheers Garett :)

[@judythcasey2785]

I have only just discovered these. I bought some and just started yesterday. I find it very hard to keep the shake going, and also catching the moving one.I know it will take some time but these are so cool. My whole body is moving but not the right bits! I am not young! But trying to sing Brazilian music.

[@PeteGalea]

Keep practicing and have fun! I'm sure you'll get it in no time :) thanks for watching!

[@hopelittwin]

This was so helpful! Thank you!

[@PeteGalea]

Glad to hear that! Thanks for watching and commenting :)

[@erosamuk]

okay, just heard the first 30 seconds and i subscribed. sweet!! 👍🏼👍🏼😊

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks so much man :) glad to have you around!

[@erosamuk]

@@PeteGalea i've been touched by an Angel! than *you*!

[@CardiaCMesch]

Thank you! You are a good teacher! I played drums for a while, but this is a different thing. The Shake Lesson was very important for me. Greetings from Germany 🎉

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you for your comment! I am glad the video is helpful to you. All the best!

[@Ehmtea]

Thank you this is a really nice beginners intro!

[@PeteGalea]

Glad you liked it!

[@zigzagwanderer7149]

Relaxing the hand is a game changer! Thanks buddy

[@PeteGalea]

@@zigzagwanderer7149 you're welcome and thanks for watching. Being relaxed is at the core of good technique for any instrument as far as I can tell :) happy practicing!

[@lazekozuya]

im waiting for my asalato in the mail but im glad to learn this in advance! will watch your videos again when i am practicing, thank you

[@PeteGalea]

@@lazekozuya awesome! Happy practicing!!

[@LinaSeoudi]

Thanks so much! this the best i tutorial I have seen so far, getting the shake down is missing from most other videos and its such an important first step! subscribed ofc, thanks again

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you so much!! I'm glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. Enjoy your asalato journey! Cheers :)

[@laurawillits176]

Thanks for such a great first lesson. I'm just gonna shake along to music one-handed while driving. I think that should get me started.

[@LootRKR]

Thanks for the lesson man, on my own I was definitely underestimating the shake

[@tanyam.delacruz532]

Omg you are a savior! I've been stuck for days trying to figure out what's wrong and just watching this video I feel like I finally unlocked the asalato technique! Thank you for pointing out the ever so basics that others fail to tell us

[@PeteGalea]

@@tanyam.delacruz532 glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for watching :)

[@reidintx7570]

That was a really great lesson. You covered all the mistakes I was making. I'm already getting the shaking and the cracking.

[@NspireWalker]

You are awesome! Thank you!

[@PeteGalea]

@@NspireWalker thanks for watching!

[@Frodohotep]

Excellent teaching! Thank you!

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks for watching, glad it helped! 😁

[@ferdinandolorvida2414]

Thanks a lot for vibes

[@BKim-nl3qn]

The best video for starters! thank you! It works!

[@PeteGalea]

@@BKim-nl3qn cheers :)

[@cherrhythm]

Thank you so much for this lesson! I just bought some quiet cork asalatos and immediately found this video. I am a percussion teacher and I love how you explained everything in your video. Thank you so much for sharing things you've learned. I can tell I'm going to have fun learning how to play these. ❤

[@PeteGalea]

@@cherrhythm glad you like the video. Thanks for watching and enjoy your practice! 😁

[@andreamuller8468]

Thank you 😊

[@iolowhelan]

*Love* your teaching style Pete - thank you! 👏🏻🤩👍🏻

[@PeteGalea]

Glad to hear that, thank you! Happy practicing :)

[@klainerosenthal5361]

nice human. thank you for your kindness.

[@PeteGalea]

I do my best✌😸

[@EvelineUK]

Got my first set yesterday. Yeah... I hugely underestimated the shaker. Like,how hard can it be, I've had a rattle as a baby.... ;) thank you so much for this video!

[@PeteGalea]

@@EvelineUK thanks for watching! The shake is deceivingly challenging sometimes! Happy practicing :)

[@gaiacreatesearthlove]

Just got a pair. Very challenging so far but thank you for sharing.

[@aiden7274]

Amazing!

[@PeteGalea]

@@aiden7274 cheers :)

[@Makermook]

Dude... You made it so clear. Thank you!

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks, glad you found it helpful :)

[@damiencantgetin]

Ahhh, good vibes my friend. I like your attitude, thank you for the video 🙏🏼

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks for watching. All the best!

[@betula-pendula]

Super explanation!

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you very much. Im glad you found the video helpful 😁

[@AylaPierce]

you're a great teacher! Thanks so much for sharing! I don't even have one of these yet, but you've inspired me to get one :)

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks for watching! Have fun practicing, whenever you get a set 😁

[@fiehschmusterfish1712]

fantastic video! thanks a lot man

[@PeteGalea]

@@fiehschmusterfish1712 thanks for watching!

[@6666nelson6666]

thank you so much bro

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks for watching!

[@JonSterckx]

Nice video Pete. Good to see your Kashaka are doing well & getting plenty of good use.

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks Jon! Yes they certainly are! All the best.

[@eduardwalhout1740]

I think the thing that most people get confused by is the transition between a normal shuffle that you do with a shaker 'One e and a, Two e and a, Three e and a etc' to the triplet feel you get when you introduce the clicks. One trip let Two trip let Three trip let etc. While using the same hand movement the groove totally changes.

[@PeteGalea]

@@eduardwalhout1740 they're not triplets, but 16th notes grouped in 3s. I have had other comments asking about this so one of my next videos will be covering this exact topic. Thanks for your comment :)

[@eduardwalhout1740]

@@PeteGalea They are called 16th notes because 4 of them make up a bar. You cant divide 16 by 3 . I understand what you mean, you can 'feel' the 4/4 time sig but then you'll have to add more shakes to make it back to '1' one click note. My point is, when you are learning this you are just trying to do endless triplets just to get some kind of consistancy. Adding or substracting some shakes to make it 4/4 is the next step.

[@SpliffSpliffington]

Great video, thank you so much for sharing your technique.

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks for watching!

[@aurelienderville5920]

Super 👍 merci.

[@PeteGalea]

Pas de problème :) thanks for watching!!

[@liar4135]

Such a nice video! So helpful. Thank youuuu! :)

[@PeteGalea]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks :)

[@seepepper7447]

so good ❤

[@PeteGalea]

@@seepepper7447 cheers :)

[@louisbriggs3342]

Anyone else been stuck at 5 minutes 30 for months?

[@PeteGalea]

I'd be happy to answer any questions you have, maybe I can make a follow-up video elaborating on this one to help you out.

[@louisbriggs3342]

Thanks so much for putting these tutorials together. I find them incredibly helpful. Appreciate the offer of elaborating but honestly, I think I just need to improve on my co-ordination. I'll keep practicing.

[@for_fox_aches]

​@louisbriggs3342 if the string is too long it'll bounce badly. Hold them and pull the string on one end till you get resistance but the string isn't tight and tie the knot there. You should be able to fit one finger between the string and the back of your hand. It was a disaster with them until after i did this. Lmk if that helps.

[@MattRix]

This video is great in its own way, but for brand new learners, search for Hadrian Santos video. It does the best job I’ve seen of showing the correct form and tempo to get the basic rhythm going.

[@julyk9684]

I just got mine and first, my strings were too long so they just flopped around uncontrollably. Then I had the problem that I always got out of rhythm or stopped shaking at all as soon as I started the clicks. So I took them in both hands and did the shaking with two hands and just started to add one click on the strong hand. Both hands doing the shaking made it soo much easier for me to continue doing so on the clicking hand! and then I just kept on adding from there :)

[@JEmpTt]

damnnnn this things good, nice shake lesson, its help me lots

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks for watching, I'm glad you found it helpful!

[@iosmusicman]

Ace! I know it’s going to be a long haul to get half decent at playing a pair of these but I’m going to give it a go. Mine are arriving tomorrow. Cheers. Lee

[@PeteGalea]

Just enjoy it and keep at it every day, you'll figure it out for sure. Have fun and good luck! 😁

[@gracemena2753]

Where did you bought them ?

[@iosmusicman]

@@gracemena2753 amazon (I would have to travel at least 50 miles to find a music store sadly)

[@iamhootch]

Subscriber #530! Nice video brother, thank you!

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you so much! And welcome aboard 😁😁

[@iamhootch]

@@PeteGalea I bought a pair because I can't have my drums and thought these would be an easy, fun instrument to play. Well, it's fun but not so easy. Nothing like playing the drums 😅

[@PeteGalea]

@@iamhootch I have to agree on both points, there's nothing quite like the space to play a proper drumkit, but I've found the Asalato to be the most fun way for me to remain engaged with rhythm! Fun, and quite challenging!

[@for_fox_aches]

Hey Peter! Thanks so much for this video. You should go a little more into string length. I got mine yesterday and it was a mess untill i shortened the strings significantly. Once i made the adjustment it was dramatically easier. I passed it on in the comments below. Thanks again for this though. Ive come back to it about 10 times in the last few days lol. Its great!

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you very much for your feedback. I will make a video specifically on the rope length, as you're right, it's a very common issue/question. Take care! P

[@marthe9666]

Would you recommend to pactice the shaking with a metronome? And if so, which tempo would be best to start at? Thanks 🙏 😊

[@PeteGalea]

Hmm, interesting idea! I never actually practiced shaker with a metronome. It's worth a try! I would just recommend trying some different tempos such as 60, 80, 100 for example, and see which ones are most comfortable. Try recording yourself too! Or maybe even just practice along to songs!! 😁

[@stephaniessmorgasbord2158]

I just bought my first set. I am EXTREMELY uncoordinated but I’m determined to learn this instrument. I have small hands and it feels like the balls are too far apart. Do I need to shorten the cord or just get used to it? I really enjoyed this video. You make it look so easy!

[@for_fox_aches]

Hey. I'm new to this as well. Small-ish hands. I followed the recommendations from websites as to how much slack (2 fingers) should work and the balls just kept bouncing out of my hands unless my catch was really perfect. I decided to hold them so the strings were pointing directly at me with a relaxed hand and took up the slack on one side and tie the knot exactly there. When i hold them now i can fit one finger and its snug.. Now I can grab it before it bounces. I got them yesterday and spent three hours on and off trying to get it and it didn't work at all. I managed to get the shake in about 20 minutes after I adjusted them. Managed a basic shake and catch today a couple of times. For me the difference was dramatic. Also- the string will stretch so you may have to tighten it up after some use. Lmk if it helps.

[@for_fox_aches]

P.s. the finger measurement is under the string on the back of your hand. I wasn't clear.

[@PeteGalea]

Hey! I'll be making a video on string length specifically. Really and truly it's trial and error, but when holding them in your hand, enough slack behind your knuckles to fit one finger is a good start. Hope that helps until I make that video, cheers :)

[@dyanecastangia8965]

Merci 🙏🪷🌼

[@PeteGalea]

@@dyanecastangia8965 de rien :)

[@Just__Jamieg33k]

I tried and it is really hard to keep shaking while doing the click clack lol It will take a lot of practice, so yeah don't underestimate that :D

[@bakadavi3917]

I don't understand how you keep shaking when the ball is over your thumb. I have no trouble shaking normally, but when I let loose the second ball and it comes on my thumb, I can only bounce it back and stop the shaking

[@SodiumWage]

This is the problem I keep having, too. I can either shake OR I can click. I can't figure out how to shake (in the C motion) while also flicking the kashakas back and forth for clicks.

[@Chelly-cg4uz]

This video was really helpful but I’m struggling to keep shaking in time while trying to click it. I’m coming from string instruments so i think i probably just need to practice more 😅

[@julyk9684]

What helped for me was this: shake with both hands and then do one click with the strong hand and go back into shaking. Continuing the shaking with the in my case left hand made it so much easier for my brain to also do so on the right hand. I practiced until it felt easy and started to add more and more clicks! Then onto the left hand 😊

[@31416]

How to adjust to find best rope length for my hands? Also I do fine with catching the ball on the pinky side. But the thumb side catch? I think some even more beginner tutorial would help many. Very interesting. I like the shake it all the time approach. Thank you! 🎵

[@PeteGalea]

Rope length is trial and error! See what works for you. And you don't need to catch it on the thumb side, so not sure what you mean in this case. Enjoy!

[@31416]

Thank you Peter for the quick reply. I will play with lenght. Thum side catch is something I've seen in another video. I will ask there, which makes sense when I think of it. Thanks again!

[@P1xie73]

This is super helpful! Just started trying to learn how to play these and I am already having a bit of trouble. I can get the shake going and even the clicks for a few seconds, but almost immediately the string gets tangled up in my fingers or the top shaker just goes in all directions. Would this be that my shaking is still wrong or that I’m not moving my wrist correctly? I am a percussionist of a few years and I’m looking forward to mastering these!

[@PeteGalea]

@P1xie73 the top shaker going haywire is something I clearly remember experiencing myself back when I started. My advice would be to stay relaxed and try let the instrument guide you.. and most of all, just keep at it! Thanks and enjoy :)

[@raz3801]

Great

[@PeteGalea]

Thanks! 😁

[@jannyjansen9473]

Super

[@coraliehill6803]

Hi Pete! Thank you for this amazing video!! I'd like to start this percussion and I was wondering if it would be better to get a plastic asalato as a beginner or maybe the material doesn't change anything to the technique? Many thanks 😊

[@PeteGalea]

Plastic is way more durable, so it's a good idea :) happy practicing!

[@ask_asha]

prosit hafna spjegajt tajjeb grazzi ❤

[@PeteGalea]

Napprezza! Cheers :)

[@amateur4everything]

I'm a multi instrumentalist and totally new to the shaker. Never once would I ever underestimate the shaker or any instrument for that matter. True musicians will understand that. The triangle probably has some advanced techniques! I ordered the asalato but only received one piece. I'm going to learn with the one first but alternate hands. My one asalato seems to have the string much longer than yours. Is there a proper length for my hands spand? I'm going to have to watch this video many times. This is difficult.. my brain doesn't want to cooperate.

[@PeteGalea]

The triangle, too, should not be underestimated, haha! In terms of the length of the string it's about trial and error, see what works for you. I'm sure you'll figure it out with some practice. Cheers and enjoy!

[@Ronpedley1]

What's the best ball size for a beginner? My hands are pretty big. Not huge but not small.Thanks Ron

[@PeteGalea]

@@Ronpedley1 I'd estimate 45-50mm. Happy practicing :)

[@LootRKR]

After a couple of days and working on my shake I can keep time on one throw with 2 clicks and catch. I’m still having a lot of trouble keeping the time with multiple clicks in sequence. Can’t get that taki la taki groove down, and slowing it down feels like it’s reinforcing bad habits

[@jeffreybarton1297]

Just started to try and learn. My biggest problem is that I have real trouble getting a grip on the lower ball as it swings in. My fingers slip right of the surface of the balls (they're the plastic uk made ones). I'm thinking of roughing up the surface a bit, to ty and make my skin grip it more.

[@PeteGalea]

That could be an option, but may not be necessary. Often the bottom shaker flies out as you try to catch it because you need to relax more, and don't grab it so quickly. Good luck!

[@jeffreybarton1297]

​@@PeteGalea Thank you! I'll carry on practicing. I was the same impatient way when I learned to play the Bones. Oddly enough, learning those required the same relaxing of the hands, and slowing down, and suddenly they were almost playing themselves.

[@SandraBonney]

I'm having trouble catching the ball on the pinky side. Also my strings are slightly different lengths. Mine are plugged into the nut ones, not the knotted variety.

[@PeteGalea]

Keep practicing! And try to stay relaxed. You will get it! I can imagine the strings being different lengths might be a bit inconvenient, if they're not adjustable you can try taping down a small part of the string close to where its plugged in to the ball. That's what I had done with my first pair which were non adjustable, as a temporary fix. Keep trying 😁

[@benjaplus2]

Hi Pete, great video! I was looking to buy a pair of kashaka's and noticed you didn't say anything about size. Do you have some input on the importance of the size of the balls or length of the string in relation to your hands?

[@PeteGalea]

Hey man! Sorry for the late reply. The size of the shaker balls is not that important to me unless you have massive hands, and the main thing is that you buy a pair with adjustable string length. I believe a standard pair will have 50mm shakers or something like that. Hope that helps!

[@JonSterckx]

@@PeteGalea Hi Pete. The ones in the video look like regular/medium Kashaka Pro's which are 45mm. These are an ideal size for most beginners - also great for experienced players like yourself :) They are also available in 50mm for larger hands & 38mm for smaller hands. All have fully adjustable ropes, so can be played by all hand sizes, but the ball size can/does make a difference to how easy/difficult it is to catch the kashaka - especially when first learning.

[@PeteGalea]

@@JonSterckx thanks for chiming in and confirming for everyone!!

[@MattPoyntermusic]

Thank you for the video! Where did you get your Asalatos from?

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you for watching and commenting! I bought the Pro Clear model from Kashaka UK, they are great!

[@MattPoyntermusic]

@@PeteGalea thank you. I bought some that can’t be adjusted and I think the rope is too short.

[@PeteGalea]

@@MattPoyntermusic I had the opposite problem with my first pair: they were too long. With an adjustable pair you can find the perfect length for your hands. Good luck! :)

[@Thurisazfreedom]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us all! So grateful. I have a new pair of kashaka pros from kashaka uk and i cant do the proper "clash" noise between the do balls when they hit each others, because it seems like the rope is always on the way of the hit and mutes the clack souns...any advice on that ? Thanks a lot !

[@PeteGalea]

You mean on the top or bottom part of the swing? For the top, make sure it's going OVER the thumb, I can't stress how important that is. In terms of the bottom, experiment with the length of the rope, or try relaxing your hand more. Hope that helps!

[@Thurisazfreedom]

@@PeteGalea thank you so much, it's getting better! So kind of you to answer:)

[@Asherart56]

I am new to asalato. Nice lesson. Thank you! I think I understand it, but am still very uncoordinated. I really am having trouble catching the ball on its return back to my palm, under my pinkie finger. It clicks the ball then bounces back out of the bottom of my hand. Any tips? Thank you!

[@PeteGalea]

Stay relaxed! It usually does that when your hand is stiff, or you're trying too hard to catch it.. just let it do its thing :)

[@Asherart56]

@@PeteGalea Thank you.

[@irinaladik3435]

Very good video. Just one question: is this normal that I cannot catch the ball once I through it out?

[@PeteGalea]

From what I've seen, catching it with the bottom of the hand on the way back in is something most people take a bit of time to get right. It's just about staying relaxed and not closing your hand too soon. Hope that helps! Enjoy :)

[@highskies4739]

I just bought one today... maybe i should've bought two...

[@jayrosenfeld440]

Hi Pete, Total beginner here. Does learning to catch the second ball come with practice or is there a specific technique? Thanks for these lessons!

[@PeteGalea]

Lots of practice, patience, and having fun! You will get it :) Cheers

[@english-srsly]

Kiffness brought me here

[@CathyStacy]

I've been playing for awhile but trying to get better. This video explaining about keeping them shaking was huge for me. I'll be watching all your videos. I have a said of the African gourd but would like plastic ones where I can adjust the rope. Any suggestions of a decent pair that will ship to the U.S. without charging an arm and a leg? I'm afraid to try any of the ones on Amazon. Thanks for all your help.

[@PeteGalea]

Hi Cathy! Thanks so much for your comment, I'm really glad you are finding my content helpful! The only brands I'm familiar with that are good quality are Kashaka UK and Asalato Sampa (i don't have any from AS but they look and sound great).. Im afraid I don't know of any manufacturers in the US.. Perhaps have a look if getting from those 2 brands could be viable. Thanks again and all the best!

[@CathyStacy]

@@PeteGalea Thanks, Pete. I'll take a look to see what they have and how much the shipping to the U.S. would be.

[@mutoyd]

You are a peach 🤍… but I just realized I can’t make it 🤣 … maybe “playing” is just not my thing. Will keep practicing singing and shaking maracas 💙

[@robertdeleno7143]

I’ve had these kas kas for a couple months things are coming along nicelyI can spin both directions both hands catch on bottom and top fluently polyrhythms are coming along however my shake feels like it is not running smoothly through out all that’s going on. Another words feels like the shake is only happening in between the releasing and spinning this Feels awkward and doesn’t sound smooth or rhythmic😫 Help 😂👍🏻

[@PeteGalea]

Hi Robert! Thanks for your comment. I'm really glad things are coming along nicely for you, and that you're enjoying playing the Kas Kas. As with most things, I'd suggest working on relaxing your motions, and ideally simplifying the way you're practicing. How does it feel when just playing the shake sound? I really think if you manage to work on the 'C' shape I mentioned in this video, it should be helpful, and you can try isolating each click and making sure the individual motions are relaxed, before joining them together. If this still doesn't help, feel free to send me a video of you playing on Instagram, and perhaps I can help better that way? Lastly, stay tuned for Part 2 of this video which will be coming out in just under 2 weeks, and that might also be helpful to you. Thanks again and happy practicing!

[@robertdeleno7143]

Thanks for getting back 👍🏻 you brought to my attention that even my shake alone feels somewhat odd I guess I could spend a few days alone really concentrating I’m getting comfortable with that. It’s crazy how something that looks relatively easy can be tricky! Anyway I’ll definitely work on that and be looking forward to your part two 👍🏻👍🏻

[@PeteGalea]

@@robertdeleno7143 absolutely! It's my pleasure. And as Claus Hessler often says: simple does not mean easy! Take care and all the best :)

[@angiei2811]

Thanks for the tutorial did you find when you first started that your wrist was stiff? Is this normal for a beginner?

[@PeteGalea]

I think in general working on being relaxed is a big thing for beginners of any instrument. I've seen it a lot with my drum students in the past. Don't be afraid to drop the shaker, it's better to be verging on slightly too loose than too stiff. Always listen to your body :)

[@angiei2811]

@@PeteGalea Thanks for your reply I am still practicing but your videos are a big help so thanks again

[@hookem3768]

Where do you buy them

[@Kirbyfire73]

I'm having some trouble with my non dominant hand and I was wondering if you have any tips. So when it comes to playing with my right hand, they behave beautifully. Pretty much every time they swing around, the string is perpendicular with my fingers like it's supposed to be. But when I play it with my left hand, it's like I barely have any control over the swing even though I'm doing the exact same motion. Do you have any tips for combating this problem?

[@PeteGalea]

Have you tried practicing in front of a mirror? I've encountered this issue with my own practice and many of my drum students too. Generally I find using a mirror for the extra perspective can be helpful. Remember the physics are the same in each hand, so you may need to relax more, which you may not be used to doing with the weaker hand. Above all, be patient and keep trying! Hope that helps.

[@Panyusha]

How ling should be the string between the balls? I have one with long and the other pair with a short string. Or it doesn't matter?

[@PeteGalea]

@@Panyusha it's about trial and error, see what works for you. However, that is by far my highest asked question, so I'll make a video about it soon! As a starting point, long enough for 1 finger's space between your knuckles and tbe string, when holding it still :)

[@jrzgospel]

Where can buy one for me. I am from India. Any online buying source?

[@PeteGalea]

Not sure about postage to India but I use Kashaka UK. Other brands also exist such as Asalato Sampa, Okume Percussion and Kosh Kash Moussa but I've not used any of those before. Check eBay/Etsy too maybe? Hope that helps!

[@lucakyoung]

How do you keep the ball in your hand without it slipping out while being relaxed? Plus the ball and string starts misaligning and swings over the top of my fingers

[@PeteGalea]

Not sure I understand what you mean entirely. Feel free to send me a video on Instagram, and I will do my best to help you.

[@benmiller9119]

thanks for the video! managing to do pretty well but sometimes the dropped spinning asalato just starts going wild and spinning more up and down and a not across my fingers. What could help with improving this any ideas?

[@PeteGalea]

Just practice! And relax your hands :) enjoy the journey, its OK if it takes a while to get the hang of it. There's no rush!

[@mcduh]

I just a really cheap pair of these. The cord is too long to allow for good contact? Is there an easy way to measure how long the cord should be for the size of my hand? Besides just cutting a little bit and retying until it feels right?

[@PeteGalea]

If its too long try taping down a portion of it onto one of the shakers, rather than cutting it. That worked well for me with my first set until I could get some adjustable ones. Hope that helps.

[@luke_bongoman89]

Hi I was wondering if you had any recommendations of makes that are good and where to get them. I see so many mixed reviews I just don't know where to start to get them. I'd like some really good ones as I'm a serious percussionist but never used these before

[@PeteGalea]

@@luke_bongoman89 got some reviews on my channel with more in the pipeline. Hope you find them helpful :)

[@misshope8297]

Hello! Is it an instrument that is okay for any person to learn how to use or is it a close practice?

[@misshope8297]

Also this is a wonderful video that really confirms I want to learn this instrument❤

[@PeteGalea]

Go for it!

[@wingtinalvinsham134]

im struggling to catch the asalato back with my fingers when swinging back, are there any tricks? or actually just those ball "size does matters" ?

[@PeteGalea]

Size does not in fact matter 😹😹 just relax your hands and keep practicing. You got this!

[@reisshemmingdrums]

Yessssssssss

[@PeteGalea]

😁👊 looking forward to seeing you play yours soon bro

[@JamesJohnson-rc4bu]

Any ideas to increase the string length like 1/2” too 1” or do I just need to reorder. Seems I’d be remiss not attempted to fix myself? As personal an instrument as it is. This also is by far the best I’ve come across for basic info to get this instrument started. And I’ve been a std drummer for 30 + years.

[@PeteGalea]

Thank you for that, I'm glad you found my content helpful 😁 in terms of string length, if you don't have adjustable ones then I'd only be able to recommend a hack to shorten them, not lengthen them (taping down part of the string).. I'd definitely recommend getting a pair of adjustable ones if possible (you'll know for sure because the string goes all the way through each shaker with a knot on the outside). Hope that helps!

[@caithlinmercer7700]

@@PeteGalea I have really tiny hands - forgive me if you've answered this already! But should the string be fairly tight over the knuckles when holding the two in fist? I currently have a gap of about 5cm and I think it might be making the throw-catch harder? Or maybe I am looking for excuses!

[@PeteGalea]

@@caithlinmercer7700 I'd say when holding them both in your hand, the string should not have much of a gap from the knuckles, maybe just a bit but 5cm sounds like too much for me. Hope that helps.

[@gioeledibello4742]

I got a question, when you say "and at some point just let it go" .. which is the moment I should let it go? I find hard to calculate the delay between that and when the ball actually hits the other one (I am on my first day) do you let it go like on the last quarter note of the shaking rhithm or..?

[@PeteGalea]

@@gioeledibello4742 let it go on the last upbeat. In other words the '4 and' if you're counting eighth notes :)

[@MC-zr7hl]

This is so much harder than it looks 😂 it just flops all over the place for me lol definitely will take some practice

[@MusicByRyder]

I'm having trouble with the click inside the hand. It kinda feels like it's too long for my hand. Are they certain sizes to go for? The rope is around 12,5 - 13 cm

[@PeteGalea]

If the rope is adjustable I'd recommend trying some different settings until you find the right length for you. I still adjust mine from time to time for a different feel. Hope you manage to sort it out! :)

[@mutoyd]

@pete I have jus bought a pair of them and I am almost ready to send them back to Amazon 🤣 it seems impossible to me. And also, my ones are not very noisy.. Theo are made of cork outside… any advice is welcome 🤍

[@PeteGalea]

Take your time and enjoy the journey of practicing! In the beginning it took me a while to get the hang of it. Don't give up, and have fun!

[@gracemena2753]

Where can i buy some?

[@PeteGalea]

I use Kashaka UK's Pro model. But I know other companies exist such as Asalato Sampa, Okume Percussion and others but I have yet to try those for myself.

[@PeteGalea]

Oh and also there's a guy on Instagram called KoshKash Moussa who sells authentic handmade ones but again, I haven't tried them myself yet. Good luck on your search!

[@imduka]

i`d like to make a comment based in what i saw in assalatosampa people (lari finocchiaro), you shouldnt be twisting your wrists when moving, cuz it can result in injuries into it, the move itself is all around ur arm :) besides that, great video, ill be following u and ur videos, im waiting for my materials to come, ill make an asalato of acrilic xmas balls and rice, if i get the taste of it, ill make other one with mache and polyepoxide

[@PeteGalea]

Interesting. Those guys make great asalato, I hope to buy some from them soon. But I'd certainly love to talk technique with them too! Their content is not in English though, as far as I've seen. In terms of wrist/arm movement, I'd like to think my experience with studying drumstick technique has allowed me to be conscious enough of what I'm doing to not get injured. At the end of the day, listening to your body is the most important thing. All the best with your journey and thanks for your comment.

[@ecdysview]

what size balls do you recommend - 5cm diameter? 4cm ? 3cm?

[@PeteGalea]

@@ecdysview I believe my first set was 4.5mm

[@jacobanderson3239]

Where should i get one?

[@PeteGalea]

Asalato Sampa, Kashaka UK, KoshKashMoussa... check out my other videos

[@PeteGalea]

Asalato Sampa, Kashaka UK, KoshKashMoussa... check out my other videos

[@linkmandrew]

I feel like im getting confused when going from the just shake rhythm to the swing the ball rhythm? It sounds like hes going from 16th notes (CHA ka cha ka CHA ka cha ka) to a triplet rhyrhm (CHA ka ka CHA ka ka) with the click on CHA. Am i missing something?

[@PeteGalea]

Hi! Very good question actually. So, the point is that you're still playing 16th notes, just grouped in 3s (unless you CHOOSE to hear it as triplets but thats a whole other box of frogs). Remember that a grouping of 3 notes isn't always a triplet. Maybe I should post a Short clarifying this exact query. Would you find that helpful? :)

[@StephenPowell-y1u]

@@PeteGalea Yes please! That would be SUPER helpful!

[@meirron7420]

The moment i try to let the shaker start the clicks , the whole ryhtem stops from being fluid , i dont understand exactly when to let it go from my hand 😅

[@PeteGalea]

If you had to count "1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and" , you'd let go on the 4 AND for it to click at the top on beat one. Keep practicing, you will manage!

[@iwantdog]

what if the string is too long?

[@PeteGalea]

@@iwantdog watch my video on asalato rope length

[@MarilynBIRD-rm9pz]

Can anyone tell mem if they've tried different models and/or materials ; I've bought mine but find they "bounce" too much ad can't catch them under little finger. Obviously, being a beginner, I don't know if it's me or just cheap material, are they too big for my hand etc etc......Thanks for any feedback,

[@hookem3768]

How long should the cord between the balls be?

[@PeteGalea]

Just posted a new video about rope length, check it out! :)

[@hookem3768]

@@PeteGalea where do I buy Asalatos?