The percussion instruments family includes the most parts in an orchestra. Percussion instruments are instruments that produce a sound when they are hit, shaken, or scraped. Now, these might look easy on the outside but producing a melodious sound by beating a surface is not too easy. One needs to hit the right spot at the right time with the right amount of strength and this can only be achieved by thorough practice. One can choose offline or online music classes to acquire skills in different types of percussion instruments.
All types of percussion instruments are an excellent choice for getting chosen as a hobby or as a career. A career as a percussionist will bring a lot more versatility to your artistic self. To master any type of percussion instrument you need to practice. This is the only way to reach perfection. It will enhance the sense of rhythm in the player. You will notice that all types of percussion instruments bring a special kind of excitement to the music. While playing in an orchestra, a percussionist usually plays more than one instrument in one song.
So if you have been mesmerized by a percussionist and now want to start acquiring the skill then you should start with beginner-friendly percussion instruments. We have curated such easy-to-start instruments from which you can choose the one that seems suitable for you.
1. Bongo Drums
Bongo drums got their birth in the culture of Afro-Cuban. This percussion instrument is a pair of small open-bottomed hand drums that you need to strike with an eight-stroke pattern. They have different sizes. Traditionally one is supposed to hold it between the knees while playing. You can learn how to play conga drums in the smae way. The sound that arises with the strokes is a soft and smooth tune with a high pitch. In the popular music of Cuba, this was the key instrument.
2. Cajon
Cajon can be traced back to the late 19th century; it is an Afro-Peruvian musical instrument. The origin of these drums is from slaves of the west and central Africa. Currently, these types of percussion instruments are widely used in America and Spain. It is made of wood and has a box-like shape. While playing, you can sit on it and engage with your spectators. To make the music more melodious the use of drums is also seen. Learning the basics of Cajon will enable you to play music like Zamacueca, Flamenco, and Cuban Rumba.
3. Tambourine
Tambourines were the invention of Egypt and it was called “tof” in the initial stage. Tambourines might appear as an instrument for kids but it is used widely in folk songs as well as classical songs. For beginners, it is a great percussion instrument as it will help to understand the basics of beats. It is lightweight and affordable, therefore learners can try this.
4. Side Snare Drums
In case you aspire to play a drum set someday, you can start practicing on side snare drums. Through this, you can learn the use of drum sticks more elaborately and comprehend the intensity of hitting the drums. These drums come in various sizes so you can pick the one you feel comfortable with.
5. Electronic Drum Pad
The electronic drum pad is a compact percussion instrument that is affordable and does not require a lot of space. It comes with 7 pads and 2 pedals and produces a great audio experience while you play. As it is electronic, you can connect it with a laptop, computer, and even smartphone.
Conclusion
Several types of percussion instruments are easy to work with and beginners can start learning these to get an idea regarding the more complicated percussion instruments. These types of instruments have a place in both the classical and modern genres of music. Therefore if you learn to play percussion instruments it will have an impact on your music career.