Abstract: There is provided a rhythm shaker for producing percussive sound. The shaker has a shell that envelops a hollow interior that contains a number of percussive particles. There is also provided a sound dampening insert that covers all but a portion of the interior surface of the shell. The rhythm shaker's shell has only one surface on which the enclosed sound producing material can strike the shell and make a sound. The remainder of the shell's surfaces are protected or covered with the sound dampening insert that mutes or dampens the sound by preventing the sound producing material from striking against the interior surface of the shell.