Tanzania
Zaramo

Bamboo, copper ring
Mid 20th Century
Length: 30.5 inches & Length: 26.75 in
Idiophone – Struck Indirectly – Rasp – Scrapped

Pictured here are two separate Zaramo Rasps, one still retains its copper ring for scrapping.  The Zaramo rasp is a gong-like bamboo tube, made from a rib (petiole) of the raffia palm, hollowed throughout its length with the exception of the two ends.  On one side is a series of fine serrated cuts.  By scraping a hardwood stick called bopomwa, or a metal ring on these incisions, the performer is able to obtain a characteristic rhythmic sound.  Rasps are sometimes used at special rituals such as initiation ceremonies and occasionally by healers.  They are also used by musicians for dancing.