Pandereta de plena
A round hand drum with no jingles that gives plena its sound. It is played as a set of three sizes: the largest keeps the pulse, the middle one accompanies and the smallest improvises on top. Hand painted ones are sold at craft markets and are among the most portable souvenirs on the island.
Example
Three panderetas are enough to start a plena on a street corner, which is why the music appears where there is no stage.
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Frequently asked questions
Does it have jingles like a tambourine?
No. The plena drum has a plain head with no metal discs and sounds like a hand drum.
Can I buy one?
Yes, at craft markets and instrument shops. The hand painted ones are what people take home.
