Latin Percussion (LP) is the world’s largest and most iconic brand specializing in hand percussion instruments and accessories.

Founded in New York City in 1964 by Martin Cohen, LP was born out of the vibrant Latin Jazz scene and the difficulty of acquiring authentic instruments due to import restrictions. Cohen began manufacturing his own instruments, focusing on engineering them for greater durability and volume for use in drum kits, orchestras, and professional settings, while still retaining their distinctive « feel. »

Key Focus and Products:

• Specialization: Ethnic and Latin percussion, pioneering the use of these instruments in wider musical genres, from Salsa and Latin Jazz to Classic Rock and Pop.
• Core Instruments: The company is famous for a comprehensive line of products, including:
  • Drums: Congas, Bongos, Timbales, and Cajons.
  • Auxiliary Percussion (Idiophones): Cowbells (especially the highly recorded Black Beauty and patented Ridge Rider), Jam Blocks (like the patented Jam Block), Shakers (including the patented Egg Shaker), Claves, Guiros, and Tambourines.
  • Innovations: LP is known for patented innovations like the Vibra-Slap, Jam Block, and Afuche/Cabasa, which have become staples in modern music.

LP’s legacy is built on a commitment to authenticity, quality, and innovation, and its instruments have been featured on thousands of the world’s most famous recordings and live performances by top musicians. The brand is now a subsidiary of Drum Workshop (DW).