Cajon Technique – Basic Slap
This is a simple Cajon slap to deliver a solid standard sound which can be used for all types of beats and fills. With a snare type Cajon this gives a good snare drum type sound.
Technique
Slap the drum with the fingers around 2-3 inches from the top of the drum. Experiment with the position and try and obtain a note that is similar when played with each hand. If you have a snare type Cajon make sure you also find a position which gives a good snare effect. For accents simply hit harder.
Video Example
Cajon Technique – Finger Roll
Finger Roll
This uses the fingers to give a fast and roll sound. These can be worked in to many of the rhythms to add a bit of colour. When combined with the other hand you can make a drum roll effect.
Technique
Hit the drum with each fingers of you hand alternating between the fingers in succession. I find that a finger roll sounds best when ended with a single hit, either a high slap or bass hit sounds good. To generate a slightly shorter roll you can leave out the little finger and use three.
Video Example