Why Learn the Cajon?

The cajon is a boxlike drum that originated in Peru and has since been very popular in Cuba. This deceptively simple instrument, which could easily be mistaken for a stool or crate, has a surprisingly complex sound. With a cajon, a beginner can start slapping out rhythms in no time, but a skilled musician can play complex beats and tones that could enthrall a concert hall full of music lovers.

The first advantage of the cajon as your instrument is that it is easy to transport. Kopf cajons come in different heights for different sized people and in either straight sided models which are played by sitting on the top slapping the side or slant sided tumba cajon models which are played while holding the drum between the knees and slapping the top conga style. Both types of cajon are lightweight and easy to carry. Carrying bags makes it even easier to tote your cajon along and provide some protection for your instrument. Some drums are heavy and cumbersome to move around, but you will find your cajon coming with you just about everywhere.

A second reason to learn the cajon is the instrument’s versatility. Many cajons have removable snares making the change from playing with a snare sound to playing a more traditional sound very easy. Kopf cajons offer several models with double playing sides, one with snares and one without. The snares are often adjustable so that the tone can be changed. The cajon sounds great by itself, with other drums, or mixed in with other instruments in an impromptu jam session. If you learn the cajon, you are unlikely to find yourself sitting on the sidelines listening to everyone else play. You’ll always be able to get in on the action, even when you are just starting to learn.

Another reason to learn the cajon is its unusual nature. Cajons are still rather uncommon at drum circles. If you are looking for a drum that is sure to be a head turner, the cajon is the way to go. Everyone will be wondering what kind of sound that crate makes, and what it is called. If you choose a cajon with a padded seat, your comfort will be assured too. While others scramble to find a spot to sit, you can plop down on your cajon top and be ready to play. It is fun to share a unique instrument with other drum enthusiasts, opening up opportunities for you to explore other drums as well. Your cajon will get people talking and ensure plenty of social interaction even if you are the new guy at the gathering.

Whether you are looking for your first drum or just a new, unique instrument to add to your repertoire, learning to play the cajon will add versatility, originality, and of course, lots of music to your life.