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Uerá
- Size
- Between 1,80 m and 2 m
- Weight
- Around 2.5 Kg
- Material
- Wood and the rind of different fruits
This string instrument is in the shape of a bow. On the inner opening of the bow are 36 strings placed vertically side by side. Each of them has a unique length and tautness, thus producing different sounds, reaching the extension of 5 octaves.
On the upper part of the Uerá is another string. It is thicker than the other strings and is as long as the actual instrument. Placed on it is a wedge-shaped object, carefully sculpted in wood. This small object can be moved easily, allowing the sound of the larger string to be controlled even while playing a piece of music.
The dried fruit rind used to make the shelters in Trumai, though in its original size, is fastened to the lower point of the instrument. It serves as a resonance box and can be enchanted to improve the sound.
The body is normally made by only one person who takes care of preparing the wood, cutting and finishing. The strings are made of a vegetable fiber extracted from the rind of fruits and processed by weavers.
In the Mura culture, the Uerá is considered a popular instrument. Its sound can be heard in rituals, capoeira circles or even at friendly get-togethers.
Did you know?
Did you know that the Uerá is based on a real instrument? Click here to learn more about the Berimbau.
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