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In percussion, we group all striking instruments that are not part of the basic drum kit. Most percussion instruments are played by hand, while some are played with sticks or mallets. Virtually every culture in the world has developed its own percussion instruments, tailored to the music played there. Many of these instruments are similar, yet each adds its own nuance to the sound. Today, there is no reason not to bring percussion from one culture into the music of another. Typical instruments from Afro-Cuban music such as shakers, cowbells and congas have been used as a matter of course in Western styles for decades. Percussion instruments from Asia were still relatively unknown here not too long ago, but with increasing globalisation more and more instruments are being “discovered” that work brilliantly in “our” styles as well. Brazilian music is famous for its huge variety of percussion – a samba ensemble is made up almost entirely of percussion instruments.
Cajons are one of the most popular percussion instruments, offering plenty of fun and great sound at a very attractive price. Originally from Peru and designed for a very specific style of music, this versatile wooden box has found fans all over the world because it works brilliantly as a compact drum kit substitute whenever things need to be a little quieter or more “unplugged”. This is mainly because snare wires or strings are mounted inside the body, creating a sound similar to a snare drum when you hit the appropriate area. Combined with the deep tone produced when you strike the centre of the playing surface – reminiscent of a bass drum – the cajon becomes a mini drum kit that also doubles as the drummer’s seat. Some manufacturers even use shortened snare wires instead of strings to get a sound that is even closer to a classic snare drum.
Bongos consist of two drums joined together – the smaller Macho and the larger Hembra. They are played with the hands and are ideal for fast rhythmic figures, percussive accents and solo patterns. Typical styles include Latin, salsa, acoustic pop, world music and busking.
Thanks to their direct playing feel, bongos are perfect for beginners, students, music schools and advanced percussion players looking for a versatile sound source. They are light, easy to transport and ideal for session musicians.
Congas are large, goblet-shaped hand drums that are traditionally played standing up or mounted on stands. The common sizes – quinto, conga and tumbadora – cover different pitches and allow for a wide range of bass tones, open tones and slaps.
They are part of the core setup for Latin bands, salsa ensembles, world music groups and acoustic pop acts. Congas are especially suitable for intermediate and ambitious beginners who want a fuller, more expressive percussion instrument.
Djembes are the African relatives of congas. They have a goblet-shaped wooden shell with a drum skin and are played with hands and fingers. Thanks to their special body shape they can produce very deep, full bass tones, while strokes near the rim deliver bright, cutting slaps.
Djembe drums are used in African musical traditions, world music, percussion ensembles and in educational settings (schools, workshops, drum circles). They are suitable for beginners, group lessons and experienced percussionists who want an expressive instrument for grooves and solos.
Similar in concept to a djembe, darbukas and doumbeks often feature a metal or clay shell instead of wood. Their slender goblet shape and tightly tuned head produce distinct, brilliant sounds with a fast response and the characteristic “dum” and “tak” strokes.
Darbuka and doumbek are the classic percussion sound for Middle Eastern music, belly dance, world music and acoustic fusion projects. They are ideal for ambitious beginners and experienced players who want characterful, articulate tones for solos, fills and intricate grooves.
