Sea Sound Shell Rattles

Ocean-formed. Naturally resonant.

These rattles are created by percussionist and sound practitioner Jaime Allen Poyant, whose work brings together musical sensitivity and a deep appreciation for natural form.

Each rattle is made from shells gathered along the northeastern coast—quahog, clam, mussel, or scallop—allowing the inherent shape, color, and texture of the shell to guide the final piece. No two are alike. Each carries its own balance, tone, and visual character.

The sound of these rattles is distinct from traditional hide rattles. It is lighter, more intricate, and often more textured. Smaller rattles tend to offer a softer, more delicate voice, while larger shells produce a fuller and more rounded tone.

In practice, these rattles invite a more attentive kind of listening. Subtle changes in movement reveal different qualities of sound, making them well-suited for both quiet personal work and detailed rhythmic exploration.

Over time, the relationship with the instrument becomes one of refinement—where touch, motion, and sound begin to inform one another.

Additional Details
Sizes: ~2", 3", 4", or 5" (approximate length)
Scallop shells are typically ~3"
Each rattle will vary slightly in color, shape, and texture due to the natural variation of the shells.

Meet The Maker: Jaime Allen Poyant - After having built stick and hide rattles for over a decade Jaime found himself walking with his lovely wife and two dogs by the harbor in Bristol, Rhode Island. He saw a pair a Quahog shells sitting on the shore and had an inner sense, "I could make a rattle out of that!" This was in 2019, since then he has built rattles of various sizes out of Quahog, Sea Clam, Mussel and Scallop Shells. Jaime is ever touched by the beauty and color variation held within the natural shells and he loves to share these rattles with others who may enjoy their physical and sonic beauty for their highest healing and musical purposes.

How Do These Rattles Sound?: Listen below for a general example of how these rattles sound. Each rattle will vary slightly in tone and character. The first video is of the 2", 3", 4", 5" and mussel rattles. The second video is of the scallop rattles.