Crown Family Playlab

Drums, Drums for Everyone
People play drums all over the world. Listen to three unique drums below. Can you play along?

The cajon (ka_HON) is a rectangle shaped drum. This drum originally came from Peru and was made from a box or an empty drawer that people played with their hands. Later, holes were added to improve the sound. The cajon became popular in Cuba and Spain, and now is played all over the world. Listen to a cajon being played by Peruvian musician Susana Baca. The song is called Xanahari from the CD Eco de Sombras, produced by Luaka Bop. Used with permission.

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To make your own cajon, cut a circle in one side of an old shoe box. Tap out a rhythm with your hands or with a wooden spoon. Now you can create your own songs!

The Japanese word taiko (TIE-ko) means "big drum". It has been played in Japan for hundreds of years. It was originally played to set a beat for soldiers to march to. Today, taiko drums of all sizes are still played in ceremonies, but people also enjoy going to concerts to listen to the "big drums" just for fun. Hear the Taiko Drum Ensemble play Nimba/Matsuri Daiko from the CD Soh Daiko, produced by Lyrichord. Used with permission.

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The sabar drum is one of the most popular instruments of the West African nation of Senegal. Usually, seven sabar drums are played together. One person starts a beat and the rest follow the beat and listen for rhythm changes. Traditionally, the sabar was only played by men, but today women play as well. Hear artist Mapathé Diop play Ardine, from the CD Sabar Wolof: Dance Drumming of Senegal, produced by Village Pulse VPU-1003. Used with permission.

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