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Percussion

Schlagwerk CP80 Cajon Rudiments Natur
Premium components, outstanding sound
$ 107.00
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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
$ 48.00
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Essential facts about percussion instruments

In the percussion family you’ll find all rhythm instruments that don’t belong to the standard drum kit. Most percussion instruments are played by hand, while some are played with sticks or mallets. Almost every culture around the world has developed its own percussion traditions, tailored to the local music. Many of these instruments look similar, yet each one adds its own character and color to the sound. Today it’s completely normal to blend percussion from different cultures into modern styles: typical Afro-Cuban instruments like shakers, cowbells and congas have been part of pop and rock for decades. Asian percussion was relatively unknown in the West until recently, but globalization keeps bringing “new” instruments into the spotlight that work great in contemporary styles. Brazilian music is famous for its huge variety of percussion – a samba ensemble is made up almost entirely of percussion instruments.

Cajon – the most famous wooden box in the world

Cajons are among the most popular percussion instruments because they combine great sound, easy playability and a very attractive price. Originally from Peru and designed for a specific traditional style, the cajon has since become a favorite all over the world, especially as a compact drum set substitute for acoustic or “unplugged” gigs. Inside the box you’ll typically find strings or snare wires mounted against the front plate, creating a snare-drum-like sound when you strike the upper area. Together with the deep low end you get from the center – similar to a bass drum – the cajon becomes a mini drum kit that also doubles as the drummer’s seat.

Fame Beginner Cajon wooden percussion instrument for beginners and unplugged sessions
Fame Beginner Cajon – compact wooden cajon as a flexible drum set alternative for acoustic sessions.

Bongos – compact hand drums for rhythmic accents

Bongos consist of two connected drums — the smaller Macho and the larger Hembra. Played with the hands, they’re perfect for fast rhythmic patterns, sharp accents and short solo phrases. Common in Latin, Salsa, acoustic pop, world music and street performance.

Thanks to their direct feel, bongos are ideal for beginners, students, music schools and experienced percussionists looking for a versatile sound source. They’re lightweight, portable and great for session musicians.

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

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

Congas are large, chalice-shaped hand drums, traditionally played standing or mounted on a stand. Standard sizes — Quinto, Conga and Tumbadora — cover different pitch ranges and offer a wide palette of bass tones, open tones and slaps.

They’re essential in Latin bands, Salsa ensembles, world music groups and acoustic pop acts. Congas are great for intermediate and ambitious beginners looking for a fuller, more expressive percussion instrument.

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

Djembe – percussion instrument from Africa

Djembes are African relatives of the conga family, featuring a carved wooden, goblet-shaped body and a stretched drumhead. Played with hands and fingers, they can produce deep, resonant bass tones as well as bright, cutting slaps near the rim.

Djembe drums are used in African musical traditions, world music, percussion ensembles and educational settings such as schools, workshops and drum circles. They’re great for beginners, group lessons and advanced players seeking expressive solo and groove sounds.

Afroton Djembe – traditional African hand drum with deep bass and sharp slaps
Afroton Djembe – traditional hand drum offering deep bass and crisp slaps for authentic African grooves.

Darbuka and Doumbek from North Africa

Similar in form to a djembe, the darbuka and doumbek typically feature bodies made from metal or ceramic instead of wood. Their slim goblet shape and tightly stretched head create bright, articulate tones with a fast response and the characteristic “dum” and “tak” sounds.

These drums are iconic in Middle Eastern music, belly dance, world music and acoustic fusion projects. They’re ideal for advanced beginners and experienced players who want expressive, detailed tones for solos, fills and intricate grooves.

Meinl Darbuka made of aluminum with bright, articulate Middle Eastern percussion sound
Meinl Darbuka – lightweight aluminum drum with a brilliant, traditional Middle Eastern tone.

Video guide – overview of percussion instruments

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Percussion – frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What exactly is meant by percussion?
Percussion includes instruments that create sound through striking, rubbing or shaking — such as congas, bongos, cajons, djembes, tambourines, claves, shakers and more.
What’s the difference between a drum set and percussion instruments?
A drum set is a defined setup of drums, cymbals and hardware. Percussion instruments are usually hand-played or small auxiliary instruments, used alongside or instead of a drum kit to add rhythmic accents, textures and world-music colors.
What types of percussion instruments are there?
  • Hand percussion: cajon, djembe, congas, bongos
  • Small percussion / effects: tambourine, shaker, maracas, cabasa, caxixi
  • Frame drums / tambourines: with or without jingles
  • Percussion sets: curated combinations of multiple small percussion instruments
Which music genres use percussion?
Percussion is extremely versatile and appears in Latin, pop, rock, jazz, world music, acoustic settings, theater productions and more. It can complement a drum set or serve as the primary rhythmic foundation.
Which materials matter in percussion instruments?
Materials shape both tone and durability: wood, fiberglass, plastic and metal are common. In drums like congas or cajons, wood quality and craftsmanship matter; in shakers, the shell material and filling significantly affect the sound.
What should I look for when buying a cajon?
  • Material and build quality (solid wood vs. plywood)
  • Front plate / snare system (with or without internal wires)
  • Size and weight
  • Internal construction and soundhole design
  • Finish and overall craftsmanship
Should I buy a percussion set or individual instruments?
A percussion set offers a well-matched selection of instruments at a bundle price. Individual instruments let you customize your setup and refine your personal sound.
Are all percussion instruments in stock?
Products listed as “in stock” or “available immediately” are usually ready for shipping. Any exceptions will be shown on the product page.
How long does delivery to the USA take?
Delivery to the United States typically takes several business days after dispatch. Larger items may require freight shipping, which can take slightly longer.
Is tracking available?
Yes — once your order ships, you will receive an email with a tracking number so you can monitor your delivery online.
How do I properly maintain percussion instruments?
  • Wipe drumheads and surfaces; avoid excessive moisture
  • Oil wooden surfaces occasionally (depending on material)
  • Check internal mechanisms such as snare wires or ropes
  • Avoid excessive force and treat playing surfaces with care
When should I replace parts or instruments?
Replace items when cracks, damage or heavy wear appear, or when the tone deteriorates significantly. Many small parts — screws, wires, cords — can be replaced individually.
How can I achieve dampening or special sound effects?
Dampening pads, rings or internal stuffing can control sustain and overtones. Adjusting striking position or technique also makes a big difference in tone.
Can I try percussion instruments in the Cologne store?
Yes — at the MUSIC STORE in Cologne, Germany, you can try a wide range of percussion instruments. Contact us beforehand so we can prepare specific models for testing.
Do you offer advice on choosing and combining percussion instruments?
Absolutely — our specialists can help both in store and online with selecting instruments, shaping your sound and building a matching percussion setup.
Are financing or installment payment options available?
Yes — depending on availability, you can choose from several payment and financing options during checkout.

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