What is an Afoxé?

An afoxé is a Brazilian percussion instrument and also the name of a musical style associated with Afro-Brazilian traditions. As an instrument, it is a type of gourd shaker similar to a shekere.

The afoxé instrument is made from a dried gourd wrapped in a net of beads or seeds. When shaken or struck against the hand, the beads hit the surface of the gourd, producing a textured, rhythmic sound.

It is commonly used in Brazilian music, especially in Afro-Brazilian styles connected to cultural and religious traditions. The instrument plays an important role in creating steady grooves and layered rhythmic patterns.

Afoxé is also the name of musical groups and rhythms that originate from the cultural practices of Bahia, often linked to Candomblé traditions. These performances combine percussion, singing, and dance.

Today, the afoxé remains an important symbol of Brazilian musical heritage and is widely used in both traditional and modern music, where its organic shaker sound adds rich rhythmic texture.