While exploring my French grandfather’s attic, I stumbled upon an unusual object that immediately piqued my curiosity. Upon closer inspection, I learned that it was an Italian percussion instrument known as the “troccoli.” My grandfather explained that it had once been used in traditional Italian folk music.
This fascinating instrument consists of small wooden mallets that produce a distinctive rhythm when played. Musicians either slide them along the grooved surface or tap them lightly, creating a unique and lively beat that accompanies folk melodies.
But how did an Italian folk instrument end up in my grandfather’s attic? The answer turned out to be a story full of adventure and romance. When he was young, he embarked on a journey through Italy and found himself in a small village in the south.
One evening, he came across a group of local musicians performing in the town square. Mesmerized by their music and the infectious energy of their playing, he decided to bring home a piece of that experience. As a memento of his travels, he purchased the troccoli, a small yet meaningful reminder of that enchanting night.
For years, the instrument remained forgotten in the attic—until I discovered it by chance. Now, I can’t help but wonder if I should learn to play it myself, reviving its lost melodies. Every object carries a story, and this old Italian instrument is no exception. Perhaps it’s time to let its rhythm be heard once more.