The instruments of sega

The central instruments associated with sega tipik are the ravanne frame drum, the maravanne box rattle and the triangle. Together with voices, they create a layered percussion ensemble.

Sources reviewed 30 October 2026

Round goatskin ravanne on a patterned cloth
Photo by MU Music Contributor

Ravanne

Start with the drum’s membrane and circular frame. The sound changes with the place and manner of the strike, the tension of the head and the player’s technique. Instrument dimensions and materials can vary, so examine the actual item rather than relying on a generic souvenir description.

A playable instrument and a decorative miniature serve different purposes. If you want to study, ask a teacher or maker which size and construction suit a beginner.

Maravanne

A maravanne contains loose material that moves inside its body. Its texture is part of the ensemble, not simply a substitute for a drum. In photographs, look for the flat, enclosed form, then watch the hands to understand how movement produces sound.

Spelling varies across French, English and Kreol sources. Maravanne and maravann can refer to the same instrument; keep the spelling used by a named maker when citing their work.

Triangle

The triangle supplies a metallic sound that differs sharply from drum skin and rattling material. Listening only for volume can make its contribution easy to miss. Follow the timing and the length of the ringing sound instead.

Although a triangle may look familiar from other music, its use in an ensemble is learned through practice. Owning one is a beginning, not knowledge of a performance tradition.

Instruments in modern arrangements

Sega recordings may also use amplified instruments and studio production. Identify the recording before deciding what is “missing”. A modern band is not necessarily attempting to reproduce a percussion-led sega tipik ensemble.

Our listening pages connect musical styles to named artists. The buying guide focuses on questions a purchaser can verify with a maker, rather than presenting unconfirmed prices or stock.

Common questions

Is a ravanne a tambourine?

It is a frame drum. Avoid assuming it has the jingles commonly associated with a tambourine. Ask the maker about the construction of the specific instrument.

Sources and further reading

Sega Tipik nomination and community participationNational Heritage Fund of Mauritius

Traditional Mauritian SegaUNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

Sega instrumentsUniversity of Edinburgh, CHAGOS archive

Practical guidance is editorial synthesis. Named sources support cultural claims; venue programmes and inventory require direct confirmation.

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