A new twist on the traditional Afro-Caribbean favorite.
Premium fiberglass frontplate for increased volume and durability. Siam oak body, built-in sizzle effect,
and padded seat.
The cajon is an authentic Afro-Cuban wooden box percussion instrument. Meinl cajons are completely
handmade from start to finish. They work perfectly for flamenco or world music and deliver a wide range of sounds, from loud,
deep bass tones to cutting high overtones. Drummers and percussionists appreciate the cajon for its diversity of sound. They're
also perfect for unplugged gigs or sessions.
To equip a cajon with fully adjustable snare wires is an original Meinl
innovation. The snares touch the frontplate from the inside and deliver the classical cajon sound, which is requisite in flamenco
music. A knurled knob adjusts the amount of pressure used to press the snare wires against the frontplate. Rattling ranging
from light and sensitive to very loud can be achieved through adjustment. The entire snare unit can even be turned off completely.
The cajon is one of today's most popular percussion instruments because it very easy to play, and provides a great
feel and rhythmic foundation to any musical situation. It is fun to experiment with and is popular in literally every musical
genre as it is often used during unplugged gigs or softer songs to replace an entire drum kit.
After just a little
practice, basic beats and grooves can be achieved. It can be used by drummers as a substitute for their throne, playing on
it with one hand, while the other hand keeps time on the ride or the hi-hat.
Many drummers also use the cajon during
unplugged gigs, certain songs, or spontaneous sessions as its ability to emulate many sounds serves as an excellent substitute
for a complete drum set.
Traditionally, cajons are played by sitting on the padded top of the box while slightly leaning
backwards. The frontplate is struck with the bare hands. Various playing techniques help to create different sounds ranging
from deep bass tones to cutting highs and slaps.
A nice effect can be achieved by sliding the foot up and down the
frontplate when playing the cajon, in effect changing the pitch of its tone.
A unique and inspiring sound is achieved
when playing the cajon's frontplate with a pair of brushes or rods.
The history of the cajon
The cajon, which is the Spanish word for box, has been part of Afro-Peruvian music since the 19th cfentury. The instrument
originated in colonial Peru, when the slaves, whose African drums had been forbidden by their masters, used wooden boxes intended
to hold fruits or overturned drawers to play their rhythms on. Later the cajon was officially added to the instrumentation
of the vals criollo, or "creole waltz." It is now a national emblem for Peruvians, and an indispensable part of any
ensemble that performs the traditional folk music of Peru.
The cajon's later development can be clearly traced back
to one man, the flamenco guitar player Paco de Lucia. In the early 1970s, the Spanish embassy in Lima, Peru hosted a party
for Paco de Lucia, where they had a traditional Peruvian band perform utilizing the cajon. Flamenco music comprises many different
rhythms which are normally played by the guitar player striking the body of the guitar. At that party, Paco de Lucia asked
his former percussionist Ruben Danta to play the "Buleria" on the cajon, which is one of the rhythms used in flamenco. Consequently,
Paco de Lucia took the cajon with him back to Spain. The short staccato sounds that can be played on the cajon make it perfect
for flamenco music, because that sound naturally relates to the footwork and hand-claps ("palmas") used in Flamenco. Since
the cajon's historic migration from Peru to Spain, its use has spread worldwide.
Meinl Siam Oak Cajon with Fiberglass Front Features:
- Premium fiberglass frontplate for increased volume and durability
- Siam oak body, built-in sizzle effect, and padded seat.
You won't believe the monster slaps you'll get with this box. Order now!
Meinl Siam Oak Cajon with Fiberglass Front Specifications:
- 19-1/2"H x 11-3/4"W x 11-3/4"L
