Posted by Steve Head on 18th Apr 2023
Why You Should Should Consider Using A Cajon Kick Pedal.
As a percussionist, I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting instruments and accessories to add to my setup. Recently, I came across the cajon kick pedal, which has quickly become one of my favorite percussion accessories. In this article, I'll explain what a cajon kick pedal is, how it works, and why you might want to consider adding one to your setup.
First of all, what is a cajon kick pedal? Simply put, it's a device that allows you to add a bass drum sound to a cajon drum. If you're not familiar with the cajon, it's a box-shaped percussion instrument that originated in Peru and is now used in many different styles of music. The cajon is played by sitting on it and hitting the front surface with your hands to create different sounds and rhythms.
While the cajon is a versatile instrument, it does have one major limitation: it doesn't have a bass drum sound. That's where the cajon kick pedal comes in. The pedal is attached to the side of the cajon and has a beater that hits the back of the drum to create a bass drum sound. Essentially, the cajon kick pedal turns your cajon into a hybrid drum kit, giving you more options and versatility in your percussion setup.
So how does the cajon kick pedal work? It's actually quite simple. The pedal is connected to a metal rod that extends out and hits the back of the cajon when you press down on the pedal with your foot. The beater is attached to the end of the rod and is usually adjustable so you can get the perfect sound and feel for your playing style.
There are many different types of cajon kick pedals on the market, ranging from simple and affordable to more complex and expensive. Some pedals are designed to be used with specific cajon models, while others are more universal and can be attached to any cajon. When choosing a cajon kick pedal, it's important to consider factors like durability, adjustability, and compatibility with your cajon.
So why might you want to add a cajon kick pedal to your percussion setup? For starters, it can greatly expand your range of sounds and rhythms. With a cajon kick pedal, you can add a bass drum sound to your playing, which can help fill out your sound and add more depth to your percussion arrangements. Additionally, using a pedal can help take some of the strain off your hands and wrists, as you won't need to hit the cajon as hard to get a strong bass sound.
Another advantage of using a cajon kick pedal is that it can allow you to play more complex rhythms and patterns. By adding a bass drum sound to your playing, you can create more intricate grooves and syncopated rhythms that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with just your hands. This can be especially useful in genres like funk, jazz, and Latin music.
In conclusion, the cajon kick pedal is a versatile and exciting cajon accessory that can greatly enhance your percussion setup. Whether you're a professional musician or a hobbyist, adding a cajon kick pedal to your cajon drum can open up new possibilities for your playing and help you achieve a fuller and more dynamic sound. With a wide range of options available on the market, there's sure to be a cajon kick pedal that fits your needs and budget. Give it a try and see how it can take your percussion playing to another level.
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