Meinl QW10 10″ Aluminum Cuica

Meinl QW10 10″ Aluminum Cuica is a professional-grade Brazilian friction drum designed to deliver the distinctive, expressive sounds central to samba and other Afro-Brazilian musical styles. With its lightweight aluminum shell and hand-selected goatskin head, this cuica offers both durability and authentic tonal character, making it an essential instrument for percussionists seeking traditional sound with modern reliability.

Materials and Build Quality

The Meinl QW10 features a lightweight aluminum shell, ensuring ease of transport without compromising structural integrity. Its hand-selected goatskin head provides a warm, resonant tone, while the countersunk bolt heads offer a smooth playing surface and secure tuning. The instrument also includes a tuning key for precise pitch adjustments, allowing players to tailor the sound to their specific needs.

Performance and Use Cases

Ideal for samba ensembles, street performances, and studio recordings, the Meinl QW10 Cuica produces the characteristic high-pitched squeal and rhythmic textures that define the genre. The internal bamboo stick, when rubbed with a moist cloth, creates variable pitches controlled by hand pressure on the drumhead. This expressive range makes the cuica a dynamic addition to any percussion setup, suitable for both traditional and contemporary applications.

Key Features

• 10″ diameter for versatile tonal range
• Lightweight aluminum shell for portability
• Hand-selected goatskin head for authentic sound
• Countersunk bolt heads for comfortable playing
• Includes tuning key for precise adjustments

Explore Similar Instruments

Discover more Brazilian percussion instruments in our Samba collection, featuring surdos, repiniques, and more.

Official Manufacturer Link

For additional information and artist performances, visit the official Meinl Percussion website.

Conclusion

Whether you’re performing in a traditional samba ensemble or exploring new rhythmic territories, the Meinl QW10 10″ Aluminum Cuica offers the quality and expressiveness needed to bring your music to life. Its combination of authentic sound, durable construction, and player-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any percussionist’s collection.