In Hausa culture, Shantu is a unique musical instrument played on the body using the feet. It is crafted from the leaves of a spreading plant.
When the Shantu plant grows, it spreads like a pumpkin but remains tall and lean. Once harvested, the plants are dried and turned into musical instruments by creating openings at the top and bottom.
Women primarily perform Kidan Shantu during large gatherings, especially at weddings, naming ceremonies, and other festive occasions in Hausaland. It is, as a matter of fact, an ancient tradition deeply rooted in the Hausa culture before they came in contact with other cultures.
Kidan Shantu is one of the melodies that young women play when a bride is being prepared for marriage. It is customary for her to be accompanied to her husband’s home with her Shantu, where she will sing for him. 
In the contemporary age, girls in boarding schools also sing Shantu songs to pass the time during study breaks. Their music differs from the traditional versions as they incorporate English lyrics into their songs.
Like other music performed by women, Shantu music is a voluntary expression. Women engage in Shantu music driven by their deep passion for the art. Whenever they sing, you can hear their voices blending seamlessly with the melody of the Shantu song.
This musical tune has been grouped into two categories;
-Traditional Shantu: This type of Shantu is grown and split into two sections. It is a popular instrument among the older generation’s parents and grandparents and was made of various designs.
-Modern Shantu: This is a metal shantu designed by the Farfaru people and it produces a unique sound when blown.
today, many groups still perform Shantu music. One prominent example is the Shantu Association of Kano State Historical and Arts, renowned for its Shantu songs and performances, both locally and internationally.
Source: Northpad.ng
