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Percussion

Schlagwerk CP80 Cajon Rudiments Natur
Premium components, outstanding sound
€ 107.20
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Latin Percussion LP7007 World Beat Djembe 6"
Compact djembe with coloured body
€ 24.50
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Afroton AKS1503 Klangschale Set
Traditional sound art from Nepal
€ 48.20
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Essential Facts About Percussion Instruments

Percussion includes all striking instruments that are not part of a standard drum kit. Most percussion instruments are played by hand, while others use sticks or mallets. Nearly every culture around the world has developed its own percussion instruments, tailored to its traditional music. Many of these instruments share similarities yet contribute their own unique colors. Today, mixing percussion styles from different cultures is completely natural. Afro-Cuban instruments like shakers, cowbells, and congas have been standard in Western music for decades. Asian percussion instruments, once relatively unknown in Europe, are now increasingly used thanks to global exchange. Brazilian music is especially famous for its enormous variety of percussion – a samba ensemble consists almost entirely of percussion instruments.

Cajon – the world’s most famous wooden drum box

Cajons are among the most popular percussion instruments thanks to their fun playing feel and great sound at an affordable price. Originally from Peru and designed for a specific musical tradition, this versatile wooden box has gained worldwide popularity because it works perfectly as a compact drum kit alternative for acoustic or “unplugged” settings. Its built-in snare wires inside the body produce a snare-like sound when striking the upper edge, while the center of the body delivers a deep bass tone similar to a bass drum. This turns the cajon into a mini drum kit you can sit on! Some manufacturers even use shortened snare carpets to achieve an even more authentic snare tone.

Fame Beginner Cajon made of wood, versatile percussion instrument for beginners
Fame Beginner Cajon – compact wooden drum box for flexible unplugged sessions.

Bongos – compact hand drums for rhythmic accents

Bongos consist of two connected drums – the smaller macho and the larger hembra. Played by hand, they are ideal for fast rhythmic patterns, accents, and solo phrases. Common styles include Latin, Salsa, acoustic pop, world music and street performance.

Their direct playing response makes bongos perfect for beginners, students, music schools, and advanced percussionists seeking a versatile instrument. They are lightweight, portable, and ideal for session players.

Latin Percussion Traditional Bongos made of wood for Latin and acoustic music
Traditional Bongos – two-tone hand drums for Latin grooves & acoustic sessions.

Congas – powerful standing drums for stage, studio & world music

Congas are large, conical hand drums traditionally played standing or mounted on a stand. The common sizes – quinto, conga and tumbadora – cover different pitches and offer a wide range of bass tones, open tones and slap sounds.

They are essential instruments in Latin bands, salsa ensembles, world music groups and acoustic pop acts. Congas are ideal for intermediate and advanced players looking for a fuller, expressive percussion sound.

Fame Conga Set with stand – percussion instrument for Latin music
Fame Conga Set – two congas with sturdy stand delivering warm, full Latin percussion.

Djembe – African percussion instrument

Djembes are African relatives of the conga family. They feature a goblet-shaped wooden body with a stretched drumhead and are played using the hands and fingers. Their unique shell design allows for deep, rich bass tones while edge strikes produce bright, cutting slaps.

Djembe drums are used in African traditions, world music, percussion ensembles and educational contexts such as schools, workshops and drum circles. They suit beginners, group classes and experienced percussionists looking for expressive grooves and solo possibilities.

Afroton Djembe – traditional African hand drum with deep bass and sharp slaps
Afroton Djembe – traditional hand drum with deep bass tones and bright slaps for African grooves.

Darbuka and Doumbek from North Africa

Similar in concept to a djembe, darbukas and doumbeks often use metal or clay shells instead of wood. Thanks to their slender goblet shape and tightly stretched head, they produce bright, articulate tones with fast response and the characteristic “dum” and “tak” strokes.

Darbuka and doumbek are classic percussion voices for Middle Eastern music, belly dance, world music and acoustic fusion projects. They are suitable for ambitious beginners as well as experienced players who want expressive, articulate tones for solos, fills and intricate grooves.

Meinl Darbuka made of aluminium with brilliant Middle Eastern percussion sound
Meinl Darbuka – lightweight aluminium drum with a brilliant Middle Eastern percussion sound.

Video Guide – Overview of percussion instruments

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Percussion – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is meant by percussion?
Percussion (struck or shaken instruments) includes all instruments that produce sound by hitting, rubbing or tapping — e.g. congas, bongos, cajon, djembe, tambourine, claves, shakers and more.
What is the difference between a drum kit and percussion?
A drum kit is a defined setup with shells, cymbals and hardware. Percussion instruments are often hand or small instruments that are used in addition to or instead of a drum kit, typically for rhythmic colors, accents and world music sounds.
What types of percussion instruments are there?
  • Hand percussion: cajon, djembe, conga, bongos
  • Small percussion / effect instruments: tambourine, shaker, rattle, cabasa, caxixi
  • Frame drums / tambourines: with or without jingles
  • Percussion sets / drum percussion packs: combinations of several small percussion instruments
Which musical styles use percussion?
Percussion is extremely versatile and appears in Latin, pop, rock, jazz, world music, acoustic settings, theatre and more. It can complement a drum kit or provide a standalone rhythmic foundation.
Which materials matter for percussion instruments?
Materials influence both sound and durability: wood, fiberglass, plastic and metal are common. On drums such as congas or cajons, wood quality and construction play a key role; on shakers, the shell material and filling shape the sound.
What should I look for when buying a cajon?
  • Shell material and construction (solid wood, plywood)
  • Playing surface / snare system (with or without wires)
  • Size and weight
  • Internal design and sound hole
  • Build quality and finish
When should I choose a percussion set instead of single instruments?
A percussion set offers a curated combination of instruments (e.g. shaker + tambourine + claves) at a bundle price. Individual instruments allow for more personal selection and targeted sound choices.
Are all percussion instruments in stock?
Products that are marked as “in stock” or “available immediately” in the shop are usually ready for dispatch. In case of exceptions, the shop will inform you about any delays.
How long does delivery take within Europe and worldwide?
Typical delivery times within Europe are around 1–5 business days, depending on destination and shipping method. Worldwide shipping times vary by region and carrier; bulky items may be shipped by freight forwarder.
Is tracking available for my order?
Yes, once your order has been shipped you will receive an email with a tracking number so you can follow your parcel online.
How do I take proper care of percussion instruments?
  • Wipe off drumheads and protect them from excessive moisture
  • Oil wooden surfaces occasionally (depending on the material)
  • Check mechanics (e.g. cajon snare wires) regularly and tighten if needed
  • Treat striking and contact surfaces with care and avoid excessive force
When should I replace instruments or parts?
Replace parts or instruments if there are cracks, breaks, heavy wear or a clearly degraded sound. Smaller parts (e.g. screws, snare wires) can often be replaced individually.
How can I create special sound effects or dampen resonance?
Using small pads, damping rings or inserts can help control sustain and overtones. You can also change the sound character significantly by varying the striking position and playing technique.
Can I try percussion instruments at the MUSIC STORE in Cologne?
Yes, at the MUSIC STORE in Cologne you can try out a wide range of percussion instruments. Please contact us in advance so we can have your preferred models ready for testing.
Do you offer advice on choosing and combining instruments?
Absolutely. Our specialist staff will be happy to help you in-store and online with selection, sound matching and useful instrument combinations for your setup.
Are financing or payment in instalments available?
Yes, depending on your country and payment provider you can choose suitable financing or instalment options during checkout.

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