How to play
Welcome to "How To Play"! This page is dedicated to kids who are starting to learn percussion instruments like the Cajon, Bongo, Djembe, Conga, and Sea drum. Here, you'll find step-by-step guides and helpful pictures to aid you in your musical journey. Let's explore the world of percussion together and discover the joy of making music!
CAJON
FIRST STEP
Leaning over and hitting the cajon with your palm toward the middle of the frontplate will produce a low end tone, resonating deeply through the wood and filling the space with a rich, earthy vibration that adds depth to the rhythm.
second step
Slapping the cajon on the side or near the top will produce a high-pitched tone, adding a bright contrast to the rhythm.
third step
Use your foot for a special playing technique.
fourth step
Tilting the cajon makes it more comfortable on your back and wrists, allowing for a more ergonomic playing position that reduces strain and promotes fluid movement, enhancing your overall playing experience.
Bongo
First step
Traditionally, you play the bongo between your legs with the smaller drum on your left. A slap tone is produced by cupping your fingers slightly as you strike the head of the bongo.
Second Step
To create an open tone, strike near the edge of the bongo head with the length of your fingers in a loose shapping motion, letting your fingers bounce as you make contact with the drum.
DJembe
First Step
Place the djembe between your legs, crossing your ankles in front of you for support. Keeping your hands relaxed, strike the head of the drum near the edge for strong open and slap tones. Striking the drum in the middle will produce a powerful bass tone.
second step
Alternating between your right and left hands, create your own patterns and rhythms.
third step
Tune the djembe by using the provided tuning wrench to create a higher or lower sound.
Sea Drum
First step
Hold the sea drum horizontally and turn the drum slowly to create the sound of waves flowing in the sea.
second step
Striking the sea drum in a horizontal position will create a crashing waves sound.
third step
Holding the drum vertical and striking the heads will create a more traditional drum sound with some added rattle for a variety of interesting effects.
Conga
first step
Kepping your hands relaxed, strike the head of the conga near the edge for strong open and slap tones. Striking the drum in the middle will produce a powerful bass tone.
second step
Use the two congas together to create fun rhythmic and melodic patterns.
third step
Tune the conga by using the provided tuning wrench to create a higher or lower sound.
