Derkach


The derkach is a Ukrainian version of the rattle.
The derkach is occasionally used in Ukrainian folk instrument orchestras, but is usually found as a child's toy. The derkach was made by taking a piece of rounded hard wood and cutting teeth into it. Another piece of wood is joined to this with a tongue. As this piece rotates around the rounded piece, the tongue makes a noise as it passes over the teeth.
A similar toy is commonly used in many Jewish communities on the festival of Purim as a noisemaker. In Yiddish it is known as a gragger.