Regarding the cajon｜Sound House

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History

Regarding the Cajon means "box" in Spanish. Originally a Peruvian musical instrument, it is said that the roots of the cajon are from the days of slavery, when African brought as slaves to the Americas began use drawers from chests, as well as mere wooden boxes for rhythms.
Nowadays, although it is famous for being played in flamenco music and so on, actually, the history of flamenco from Spain and the cajon is relatively recent, and it is said that it was first introduced in around 1970.

Shape

What you often see as the cajon originates in Peru and Spain. In the case of Cuba, there are three types of shapes: Saridor, Torres Bass, Quint, and the way they play is different.

How to play

Mainly divided into LOW, MID, HI, but hitting the cajon for a beat is very easy.

LOW

Hit the center of the strike face with your hand. If you use a hand-shaped device, the sound and variations will be further enriched.

MID

Use the rest of your thumb to strike the top of the strike face. As the sound differs depending on the place where you hit it, please experiment here.

HI

Place two or three fingers on the corner and use it as an accent. Please try to find a good balance with the MID.

Options

Although it is common to hit the cajon with a hand, it is also possible to use a brush or mallet for sound variations.
As an accent, you may hit a splash cymbal at the side, attach a splash cymbal instead of a hi-hat to a hi-hat stand, and use it keeping the rhythm with your foot. Recently, a foot pedal for cajon has also appeared.

Miking

Have you ever set up a microphone at a live show etc., and experience feedback that won’t allow you to get enough volume? I think that everyone has experienced feedback, for example by holding the head of the microphone in karaoke, etc.. It’s the same issue that is occurring.
A Boundary mic can play an active part at such times. Using a Boundary Mic is easy. Just put in the cajon!

※ Boundary microphones are condenser microphones, so it is necessary to provide phantom power. You don't need to worry too much, as phantom power comes with most mixers of a certain size.