Gear article

Schlagwerk High Five Kids Cajon

The Schlagwerk High Five Kids Cajon is a percussion instrument specifically engineered for younger players, featuring a colourful hand-print design and child-safe construction. Manufactured from birchwood, it incorporates a fixed internal snare system to provide a professional-grade sound in a scaled-down format.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Schlagwerk High Five Kids Cajon is a dedicated hand percussion instrument designed to introduce rhythm to children. Its most distinctive visual feature is the 'High Five' hand-print motif on the playing surface, which gives the instrument a fun, approachable aesthetic. Beyond its appearance, the instrument is built to professional standards, using 8-ply birchwood for the main body and a thinner 3-ply birch for the front-plate to ensure resonance and durability.

Safety and Ergonomics

Safety is a primary consideration for the High Five model. The instrument features fully rounded corners and edges to prevent scrapes or bruises during active play. Unlike some professional cajons that use screws to secure the playing surface (which can sometimes loosen or present sharp edges), the High Five utilizes a fully glued playing surface. This design choice specifically reduces the risk of injury for younger users while maintaining the structural integrity of the instrument.

Sound and Playability

Despite its status as a junior instrument, the High Five Kids Cajon is designed to project a warm and punchy tone suitable for musical practice. The interior is equipped with a 20-strand snare wire, which provides the characteristic 'sizzle' sound associated with traditional cajons. This allow students to distinguish between the deep bass tones hit in the centre of the board and the sharper snare sounds found at the top corners.

Target Audience and Application

This cajon is aimed squarely at the early years and primary education sector. It serves as an ideal first instrument for children learning about basic pulse, tempo, and dynamics. Its robust birch construction makes it suitable for classroom environments where equipment must withstand frequent use by multiple students.

Comparison and Market Context

In the broader hand percussion market, the High Five sits alongside other educational tools such as the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel or Remo headless tambourines. While budget plastic alternatives like egg maracas or small shakers exist for very young children, the High Five provides a more substantial, authentic musical experience for those ready to learn specific drumming techniques on a wooden instrument.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the High Five Kids Cajon?
The body of the cajon is constructed from 8-ply birchwood, while the playing surface is made from 3-ply birchwood for better resonance.
Is the snare wire adjustable on this model?
The instrument features a fixed 20-strand snare wire located on the interior to provide a consistent snare sound without the need for manual adjustment.
What safety features are included for children?
The cajon includes fully rounded corners and edges, along with a fully glued playing surface to eliminate sharp points or loose screws.
What is the typical price for this instrument?
The Schlagwerk High Five Kids Cajon typically retails for approximately GBP 129.
What does the 'High Five' name refer to?
It refers to the colourful hand-print motif printed on the playing surface, designed to make the instrument more engaging for younger players.
How does the sound of this cajon compare to a full-sized model?
It projects a warm and punchy tone similar to professional models, though it is scaled in size and ergonomic design for smaller hands.
Why is the playing surface glued rather than screwed?
The glued surface is a specific safety choice for children, as it prevents the risk of injury from screws and ensures no small parts can come loose.
Can this cajon be used in a professional recording setting?
While designed for kids, its birch construction and 20-strand snare provide a legitimate percussion sound that can be used for light recording or practice.
Is the High Five Kids Cajon suitable for outdoor use?
While birch is durable, it is a wooden instrument and should be protected from moisture and extreme temperatures to maintain its structural integrity.
What musical skills can a child learn with this instrument?
It is excellent for teaching rhythm, tempo, and the distinction between bass and snare sounds in a tactile, hands-on way.
How many strands does the internal snare have?
The interior of the Schlagwerk High Five Kids Cajon contains a 20-strand snare wire.
Who is the manufacturer of this cajon?
The instrument is manufactured by Schlagwerk, a brand well-known for producing high-quality hand percussion and cajons.