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Cajon – The History Of Cajon The Hand Drum

Gappu Team — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 06:49:05 +0000

Cajon – The History Of Cajon The Hand Drum

The history of Cajon (pronounced as “ka-hoon”) has been one of the most popular street percussion instruments since the late 19^th century. Named after the Spanish word for “box”, the cajon became a key component in traditional Afro-Peruvian music. This amazing musical instrument originated to replace the drums of the African slaves in colonial Peru.

Cajon as a drum emerged in various cultures, countries, and over generations of time. The persisting traditions that influenced the development of music and instruments are typically traced back to Spanish colonies in Peru, Cuba, and other Caribbean nations. In the 19^th century, drums across the region of Peru were forbidden for being a threat to the power of the masters. Undaunted and driven by the power of music, the slaves began using wooden boxes purposed to carry fruit or overturned drawers to play their rhythm upon. Later on, cajon was accepted as an integral part of the instruments used to play the vals criollo or the “creole waltz”. Now cajon is a beloved symbol of Peru’s national emblem, and the instrument is a must-have to perform traditional Peruvian folk music.

The history of cajon has a few more international twists. It played a similar role as an impromptu instrument for the marginalized masses in 20th-century Cuba. The new communist government also had its denigrators, and the protestors used loud music and drums in the rallies to attract larger crowds. Soon Fidel Castro stepped into the matter to suppress the potential source of political disobedience and banned street music and drums in order to control the rebellion. Cuban resisters insightfully turned the fruit boxes and other crude materials that can be harnessed to the rhythm of the music. By creating effective but inconspicuous drums they misled the police by appearing as loyal citizens sitting on top of fruit crates

Even though we name the Cuban, Peruvian, and flamenco styles in the context of modern-day cajon as if all these types evolved at the same time scale, the flamenco cajon was brought to the culture in the most recent times. The most contemporary development of cajon can be traced back to Paco de Lucia, the famous flamenco guitarist. While attending a party in his honor thrown at the Spanish embassy in Lima in the 1970s, de Lucia was introduced with cajon by a traditional Peruvian band. The flamenco style includes multiple rhythms played by the guitarists striking the body of the guitar. The appealing sound of cajon captivated Paco de Lucia and he asked his former Brazilian percussionist Ruben Danta to play the “Buleria” on the cajon, which is one of the rhythms used in flamenco. The impressive result made de Lucia return to Spain taking a cajon. The short staccato sounds that can be played on cajon make it a perfect fit for flamenco music because the sound traditionally relates to the footwork and hand claps or “palmas”. Soon it was assimilated into flamenco and adapted to Spanish music with the addition of guitar strings, bells, and other rattles mounted inside of the instrument to add more depth to the sound. Making its way to Spain was the first step of cajon on a journey toward worldwide popularity.

As we spoke before about African slaves inventing box drums by flipping over crates and boxes to replace drums, it also leaves so many doubts about the possibility of having an African connection to the contemporary cajon. The verdict of an African connection with cajon and other box drums is definitive but not in a very expected way. Most articles on this topic just say that African slaves of Peruvian colonies brought it to the new world but the evolution definitely began in Africa, traveled to the Americas and returned to Africa in a completely different form. During the 18^th to early 19^th century, box drums were introduced to the Gold Coast (present-day Ghana) by repatriating slaves who passes through west Africa on their way back to Cameroon.

The purest form of Peruvian cajon is a six-sided instrument, with a sound hole cut into the back panel. The front panel or Tapa is made from thin wood for its reverberance, leaving the other five sides to provide the structure. The sound is dry and the root tone is bass. Its primary role is as an accompaniment instrument. It traditionally didn’t need the bells and whistles, buzzes, and snares that have been added to it over time. Whereas, the Cuban cajon is usually held in the lap. it is pitched high (Quinto). Medium (salidor or tres dos) or low (tmba). With the sit-down bajo. The flamenco cajon is the one with guitar strings and loose corners that enable it to be a kit-in-a-box. it’s a bass drum, a snare and a seat all in one.

A modern cajon still follows most of the fundamental construction of the traditional Peruvian ones, especially in terms of dimensions and materials. Modern musicians, being masters, can’t help but tinker with the design to improvise and improve the instrument’s capabilities, though. New designs add repurposed piano and guitar strings and drum snare to add a nice “sizzle” or “snare” effect to the sound. The most recent modification to appear on modern-day cajon is tambourine cymbals. Many instrument players repurpose tambourine cymbals by posting a pair on the top left and right corners for superb “clacking” effects to their percussion. The cajon is one of the most popular, accessible, and visible box drums worldwide. New versions of cajon such as pocket cajon, bongo cajons, turbo cajon, etc, and accessories like pedals, seats, microphone pickups, etc, that are driving innovation in ways of playing, as well, are carving their paths into their being to elevate the form of cajon every year. Drums are these days being replaced by the cajon even in the bigger contests generating a new breed of drummers who keep the groove while spicing it up with texture

7 Unknow Fascinating Facts About This Percussion Gem Cajon

Gappu Team — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:50:44 +0000

Unboxing the Cajon: 7 Fascinating Facts About This Percussion Gem

In the world of music, the cajon is an unsung hero that often remains in the background, overshadowed by more glamorous instruments like the guitar or piano. However, this humble percussion instrument holds a fascinating history and a world of surprises for those willing to explore it. Here are seven lesser-known facts about the cajon that will surely pique your interest:

1. Origin and Evolution

The cajon’s story begins in Peru, where it was born out of necessity and ingenuity. Its origins can be traced back to the African and Afro-Peruvian slave trade. Slaves, forbidden from using traditional African drums, turned to repurposed wooden shipping crates to create a new form of percussion. Over time, these wooden crates were transformed into the cajon, which stands as a testament to the creative spirit of these oppressed communities.

2. The Meaning Behind the Name

The name “cajon” is derived from the Spanish word for “box” or “crate.” It’s a fitting name for this instrument, given its simple, box-like shape. The cajon’s name pays homage to its unassuming origins and serves as a reminder of the resourcefulness of the people who crafted it.

3. Diverse Sound Palette

One of the most intriguing aspects of the cajon is its ability to produce a wide range of sounds. By striking different areas of the cajon’s front face, you can create a symphony of tones, from deep, resonant bass notes to sharp, snare-like slaps. The variation in sound is achieved by using different techniques, making it a versatile instrument for percussionists and musicians.

4. Portable Drum Kit

For percussionists and drummers on the go, the cajon is a dream come true. It can serve as a portable substitute for a full drum kit. By adding accessories such as kick pedals, snare wires, and even cymbals, the cajon can transform into a compact and versatile rhythm section. Musicians can create complex beats and rhythms, making it an ideal choice for acoustic performances and intimate settings.

5. International Popularity

While the cajon’s roots are firmly planted in Peru, it has achieved worldwide recognition and popularity. It has become a staple instrument in various musical genres, including flamenco, Latin music, folk, pop, and even rock. The cajon’s adaptability and ability to complement a wide range of musical styles have made it a cherished addition to many musical ensembles.

6. Cajon Flamenco

The cajon has a special connection to flamenco music. There is a distinct variety of cajon called the “cajon flamenco.” This version is specially designed to produce the specific sounds required for traditional flamenco performances. It typically features guitar strings or snare wires to capture the sharp, percussive tones essential for flamenco’s rhythm and intensity.

7. Eco-Friendly Construction

In an era where sustainability and environmental consciousness are crucial, the cajon’s origins align with the principles of reuse and recycling. Many modern cajon makers are committed to eco-friendly practices and use sustainable materials in their construction. This approach not only contributes to the preservation of natural resources but also resonates with the cajon’s roots as an instrument created from repurposed shipping crates.

In conclusion, the cajon may be a relatively simple percussion instrument, but it carries a rich history, diverse sonic potential, and global appeal. Whether you’re a musician looking to expand your rhythm palette or simply someone with an interest in music’s hidden gems, the cajon is a treasure worth unboxing and exploring. Its ability to transcend borders and genres makes it a symbol of musical unity and creativity. So, the next time you hear the rhythmic heartbeat of a cajon, remember the remarkable story and versatility that lie behind this unassuming box-shaped instrument.

How do you read Cajon notes?

Gappu Team — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 06:08:15 +0000

It is crucial to learn reading notes in Cajon since it will help understand setting up barline, therefore, one can easily follow the vertical and horizontal lines while practicing Cajon. And a pitch is represented by the lines and spaces between them, and as you travel up, the pitch rises. The notes create a basic flow and provide a defined amount of space and guidance between each beat. For example, ghost or grace notes are pretty quiet yet audible. These notes should be played between main beats using the fingers in the top corners. There is also bass ghost notes that are played to thickecajon notesn the beat.

How does cajon sound like?

Gappu Team — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:05:41 +0000

The sound of a Cajon is pretty similar to a drum, the key different is the rattle or sizzle sound comes from a Cajon along with a high tone. There sound can be described as neither too loud nor too quiet. It is loud enough to perfectly play accoustically along with other instruments in a high volume. However, the sound mainly depends on the slap you are placing on the “tapa” and the position of the strings or snares. For example, if the strings are too tight, it will create a rather unpleasant buzzing sound which can overall create a very high pitched sound from Cajon.

How to learn Cajon online?

Gappu Team — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 11:35:29 +0000

GAPPU online tutorials, learning Cajon online has become as easier as learning any basic instrument. GAPPU made multiple cajon tutorial series like how to learn cajon online, such as Cajon exercises, Groove library, and many other tutorials that provide simple yet informative videos for both beginnings who expect to learn cajon and those who aim to sharpen their skills. Learning cajon can start with GAPPU’s introduction to cajon, hand techniques, simple Cajon exercises, and so on videos. All you need is a pocket full of curiosity for Cajon and a device full of the internet to be able to play Cajon gracefully.

How big is the sound hole in a cajon?

Gappu Team — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 06:00:06 +0000

Sound hole are crucial for Cajons as these instruments produce bass tones. The air is required to escape, unlike a drum where there is no resonant bass tone. As per acoustic engineering, the position of the hole indicates the sound quality of the Cajons. For example, a too-large hole or too small hole, or a somewhat different shape decides how much air will escape at a time and how. The shape and size also play a crucial factor in terms of preventing any unwanted noise dampening or muffling as the volume increases. It impacts the bass tone produced. Following the key criteria of acoustic engineering, Gappu Cajon keeps the size 5 inches, placed at the bottom of the tapa. As a result, the right amount of air escapes, allowing a clear tone and dampening any unwanted sounds.

Cajon Attachments & Accessories

Gappu Team — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 07:04:41 +0000

GAPPU sells several Cajon attachments targeted to different requirements of percussionists and to companies in different kinds of music. There is a double shaker, foot tambourine, cajon brush, sticks, stomp box, color shaker, and so on available at GAPPU. Apart from that, there is a Cajon bag that is very handy, specifically when percussionists need to carry the instrument around. These accessories are crucial for every percussionist when it is time to take the performance up a notch. GAPPU not only maintains the quality of the accessories but they also kept their price as affordable as possible, which makes GAPPU the most suitable, one-stop destination for percussionists.

Which is the best wood for Cajon?

Gappu Team — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 12:33:06 +0000

It is said that birch is the eBay choice for a good cajon. The durability and extensive dynamic sound range provided by birch wood have made it the most commonly used one. Apart from it, manufacturers also lean towards mahogany or mahogany-type hard words. Best wood for Cajon, Gappu Cajon to be very precise uses toon, rosewood, and birch wood. This is why, taking the most crucial attributes of these woods, Gappu Cajon is made extremely durable and highly resistant to any water damage.

What is the cajon price of Gappu?

Gappu Team — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 06:32:09 +0000

Exploring Gappu Cajon’s Diverse Pricing Spectrum

Introduction

The cajon, a beloved percussion instrument with roots in Peru, has become a global favorite for musicians. In this detailed article, we’ll thoroughly examine Gappu Cajon’s pricing range, catering to a wide audience with options spanning from budget-friendly to premium selections.

Gappu Cajon Price Range

Gappu Cajons boast a flexible pricing range, from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 2100, ensuring affordability for all musicians.

Budget-Friendly Options: Kidz Cajon and Travel Cajons

For newcomers and those on the go, Kidz Cajon and Travel Cajons provide affordable entry points. They’re perfect for beginners and mobile musicians.

Premium Excellence: Multipurpose Star Cajon

At the upper end of the spectrum, priced at Rs. 2100, stands the Multipurpose Star Cajon. This is the pinnacle of Gappu’s craftsmanship and sound quality, appealing to professionals and serious enthusiasts.

Versatility and Sound Quality

Beyond pricing, it’s the remarkable sound quality and versatility that define Gappu Cajons.

Graphics Cajon: Marrying Sound and Art

The Graphics Cajon exemplifies the fusion of aesthetics and sound. Priced competitively, it delivers both exceptional sound and visual appeal, making it a standout choice for performers and studio artists alike.

Gen Z Cajons: Innovative Sound Exploration

Innovation takes center stage with the Gen Z Cajons. These instruments are designed not just for quality but for versatile sound production, suiting musicians across genres. With contemporary designs, they attract a younger, trendier audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gappu Cajons offer an extensive range of options to cater to every musician’s budget and needs. The cajon price range, from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 2100, maintains accessibility without compromising quality. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned musician, or an artist seeking visual appeal, Gappu Cajons have you covered.

Gappu Cajons stand as symbols of craftsmanship, dedication, and innovation in the music world. Their superb sound quality, adaptability, and eye-catching designs make them top choices for percussionists at all levels.

Whether you’re starting your rhythmic journey, looking to elevate your musical performance, or searching for a cajon that suits your style, Gappu Cajons offer an array of choices to explore. Dive into the cajon price range, find your perfect instrument, and let the beats resonate.

Is Gappu Cajon an Indian brand?

Gappu Team — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:47:51 +0000

Yes, the origin of Gappu Cajon took place in India and Made in India Cajon Company. It is the only brand in India that has adopted the mission to make Cajon the first choice for percussionists. As India is Gappu’s origin country, the organization is well-familiar with the rich culture, and the diversity in peoples’ music preferences in India. Incorporating this critical aspect with the aim to increase the accessibility of Cajon across India, Gappu has started its journey at the heart of Kolkata, amongst the maximum number of music enthusiasts in India.