Turning Wooden Maracas (S8)
Intro Turning, 6-weeks
Service Description
Course Overview This course introduces students to both spindle turning and bowl turning techniques through the creation of a pair of wooden maracas. Over six weeks, participants will learn how to shape, hollow, assemble, and finish their instruments while developing precision measuring skills and gaining experience with lathe-mounted joinery and surface finishing. Historical & Cultural Context of the Maraca The maraca is a traditional percussion instrument that originated in Latin America, with deep cultural roots among Indigenous peoples of the Caribbean, Central, and South America. Typically crafted from gourds filled with seeds or stones, maracas produce a bright, rhythmic shaking sound that is essential to many musical styles, from Afro-Caribbean drumming to salsa, samba, and other Latin genres. They are often played in pairs, one held in each hand, to create complex rhythmic textures that drive the music forward. Beyond their musical purpose, maracas also carry symbolic meaning in some cultures, representing natural cycles, fertility, or spiritual communication through rhythm. By crafting maracas on the lathe, students not only practice woodworking and instrument-making but also connect to a long lineage of musical tradition. Schedule: 11/4 11/11 11/18 12/2 12/9 12/16
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
Fees & class schedule: Class fees cover instructed class time (as listed in specific class schedule), use of tools and equipment, open studio hours, studio glazes and firing up to 25 lbs of clay. Additional work may be fired for a fee. Pottery class fees include 25 lbs of clay + wood classes include all lumber Classes are subject to change if minimum student quota isn't met (7 students). Class switches will only be available 1 week prior to the commencement of classes and based on the capacity of classes at time of request.Attendance: It is mandatory for all students who are new to the studio attend the first week of classes. No “make-up” classes are given but you're more than welcome to drop-in on another session if there is an opening or absence. For Adult classes, Kids must be 14-years old or older Personal belongings: Any items left behind 30-days after last class may be discarded without notice. Refund policy: Class fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Refund or Credit (minus $20 processing fee) if a request for refund is received TWO WEEKS and only two weeks before the start of a class. Credit (no refund) with less the 48 hour notice ONLY if your spot can be filled. No refunds or credits after attending 1st class. Classes missed due to failure to attend, planned absences, minor illnesses or vacations will not be credited for future classes. One-Time class registrations such as Drop-In Clay or Friday Night Clay are considered final ONE WEEK before start of class. Open studio hours for students: Monday- Thursday: 10AM-6PM Friday & Saturday: 10AM-9PM Sunday 10AM-7:30PM (Hours subjected to change upon five days' notice)
Contact Details
Clayroom SoMa, 9th Street, San Francisco, CA, USA
415-890-0044
soma@clayroomsf.com