Introducing the Percussion Plus Honestly Made Cactus stem rainstick The cactus stem rainstick from Percussion Plus is sourced from Chile, often regarded as the birthplace of the instrument. Made using Cactus stem and pebbles, when inverted the pebbles tumbling through the stick mimic the gentle fall of rain. The design is simple and uses only natural materials, finished with a colourful cotton wrap for a vibrant accent to the wood-like finish. Available in 25cm and 50cm sizes, a rainstick is a brilliant value item for schools. Each of these cactus stem rainsticks has been sourced using Fair trade principles. See below for more information about the Honestly Made range of musical instruments from Percussion Plus. These items are musical instruments not toys and there may be small parts on or in some of them. Younger players should use them under supervision. Made with sustainably sourced materials These rainsticks are sourced from the Stacama in Chile where the cactus used is deadwood collected by mule from the high inland. Hollowed out and needles removed, the spikes are then inverted and thrust back into the interior before the stem is filled with small pebbles and sealed. When played, the pebbles then bounce off the spikes in a random fashion, thus creating the sound of rain. The soothing sound of rainfall Thought to be created by the Mapuche people of southern Chile and Argentina, rainsticks were played in the belief they could bring about rainstorms. Now, the soothing sound can be utilised in sensory classes, music therapy, schools or for texture in performances or compositions.
