What is ayote drums?

Ayote drums are a type of percussion instrument used in traditional Latin American music, particularly in Central America. They are made from dried, hollowed-out gourds, known as ayotes, with animal hides stretched over the openings to create a drumhead. The size and shape of the ayote determine the pitch and tone of the drum.

Ayote drums are typically played with hand-held drumsticks made from wood or bamboo. They are used in a variety of musical genres, including cumbia, merengue, and salsa.

In many cultures, ayote drums hold significant cultural and spiritual meaning. They are often used in ritualistic and ceremonial music, and are believed to be capable of connecting the player and listeners to ancestral spirits.