The usual technique is to hold one lightly with the thumb and fingertips of the non-dominant hand, with the palm up.

The other is held by the dominant hand at one end with a firmer grip, much like how one normally holds a drumstick.

Among the bands to have used claves are the Beatles in their recordings "Don't Bother Me", "And I Love Her" and The Who in their song "Magic Bus".

Many composers looking to emulate Afro-Cuban music will often use claves such as Arturo Márquez with Danzón No.

Steve Reich's Music for Pieces of Wood is written for five pairs of claves.