TED-ED: Rhythm in a box: The story of the cajon drum - Paul Jennings

The video explores the cajón, a versatile percussion instrument. It highlights its origins in West Africa, its development in Peru by African slaves using shipping crates, and its evolution into a key instrument in Afro-Peruvian music. The cajón was introduced to Europe by Paco de Lucía, becoming integral to flamenco music. Modern adaptations have expanded its use across various genres, showcasing its simplicity and versatility.

What was a key factor in the creation of the cajón by African slaves in Peru?

• Access to musical education

• Plenty of shipping crates

• Availability of traditional drums

• Support from local musicians

How did the abolition of slavery impact the development of the cajón?

• It restricted the use of the cajón

• It led to the decline of the cajón

• It allowed for more experimentation and wider adoption

• It made the cajón illegal

Who played a significant role in introducing the cajón to European audiences?

• Enrique Iglesias

• Juanes

• Paco de Lucía

• Carlos Santana

What modification did flamenco musicians make to the cajón to enhance its sound?

• Used metal sticks for playing

• Added a cymbal

• Stretched guitar strings inside the tapa

• Increased the size of the sound hole

In which music genres is the cajón commonly used today?

• Folk, jazz, blues, and rock

• Hip-hop and electronic

• Reggae and ska

• Classical and opera