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How to Play the Cajon

The side of the Cajon drum that is crafted out of specific wood or fiberglass material, also known as the frontplate, is the actual playing area of the drum. The side with a hole cut into it is typically the back siding of Cajon drums and is the portion that is positioned perpendicular to the Cajon drum head or parallel to the head depending on the drum style. The tapping region on the Cajon drum is further identified as tapa or drum head.

When an individual plays Cajon, he or she positions their body above and over the box; some drummers straddle the box while playing, and others sit upon it when they play. The drummer will take the Cajon and tip them or tilt them inward in order to begin playing. The surface of the drum is then tapped with the open palm and fingertips to derive different sound effects from the instrument.

Cajon Drum: Open Tone

With a flat hand and fingers together, you will hit the front plate with the full length of all four fingers at the top of the drum. Thumb is lose.

Cajon Drum: Bass Tone

With a flat hand, this time with your fingers spread and open palm, hit the frontplate with your entire hand in the middle/upper area of your cajon.

Cajon 101 Online Lesson

In this digital drum lesson you will learn seating positions on the cajon that reduce strain on your back and how to play the basic bass and snare tones.

29th Oct 2014

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