Rhythm band describes a group of performers playing percussion instruments (instruments that produce musical tones when struck). Elementary school music teachers in the United States use rhythm bands as a method of teaching children about basic rhythm in music. Children learn to sing, tap, or play the characteristic rhythm of a melody. The purpose of these bands is to develop a feeling and response to rhythms of all kinds. Some instruments played in rhythm bands include rhythm sticks, maracas, claves, wood blocks, triangles, and tambourines.