👉 The term "maracas" refers to a type of percussion instrument used in Latin American music, particularly in Brazil and Venezuela. These instruments are often played by men or women who use their hands as tools for playing the instrument. Maracas are typically made from a variety of wood, including cebuana (a type of redwood), manioc (a type of sugarcane), or sugarcane bark. They have a distinctive sound and can be used to create different rhythms and melodies