In-depth guide
What Is a Cajon? Origins, Anatomy, Sounds and Types
A cajon is a box-shaped percussion instrument from Peru that you sit on and play with your hands. See how it's built, how it sounds and its main types.
20 min read
From the Ökecajon workshop
Rhythm Academy
Step-by-step guides to the cajon, practice pads and hand percussion: from choosing the right instrument to your first groove, daily practice routines and care.
In-depth guide
What Is a Practice Pad? What It's For and How to Use One
A practice pad is a quiet surface drummers use to build stick control and warm up. Learn what it does, how to set it up and use it, and what it can't do.
16 min read
In-depth guide
Hand Percussion Instruments: Names, Types and Which One to Start With
A visual guide to hand percussion: cajons, shakers, bongos, congas, tambourines and wood blocks, how each makes sound and which is easiest to start with.
18 min read
Cajon
3 articles
Cajon
How to Play Cajon: Posture, Basic Strokes and Your First Groove
Learn cajon step by step: how to sit, where to hit for bass and slap, tones and ghost notes, your first 4/4 groove and a 30-day practice plan.
17 min read
Cajon
How to Choose a Cajon: Size Chart, Wood, Snares and Skill Level
How to choose a cajon: a size chart for adults and kids, how wood and the tapa shape the sound, snare vs string cajons, bass cajons and a buyer's checklist.
17 min read
Practice Pad
2 articles
Practice Pad
Practice Pad Buying Guide: Size, Surface, Rebound and Mounting
What size practice pad should you get? Compare 1- to 12-inch pads, rubber vs. low-rebound polyurethane, snare-sound pads, knee pads and 8 mm mounts.
18 min read