The cabasa is a percussion instrument similar to the shekere. It is made with loops of steel chain wrapped around a wooden cylinder. The cylinder is attached to a long handle made of wood or plastic.

The metal cabasa was invented by Martin Cohen, who started the company Latin Percussion. This company created a stronger version of the cabasa called an afuche-cabasa. It makes a metallic, rattling sound when shaken or twisted, like the sound of a rattlesnake. It is often used in Latin jazz, especially in bossa nova music. Skilled players can create precise rhythms by pressing the metal chain with one hand while twisting the handle with the other. The cabasa is also used in band and orchestra music.

The original African version of the cabasa is called agbe. It is made from dried, oval or pear-shaped gourds with beads attached to the outside. There are many versions of this instrument, especially in Latin music. The cabaça is a type of gourd used in Latin American dance. It is round or pear-shaped, covered with beads, and has a single handle. This version is different from the metal cabasa used in Latin jazz.

The cabasa is often used in music therapy. It helps people with physical or neurological disabilities because it requires little hand movement to make sound. Therapists can help reinforce the connection between hand movements and hearing sounds, which can improve hand movement skills. Some modern versions of the cabasa include a foot pedal made by Meinl Percussion.