Cymbals

• Avedis Zildjian Company Cymbals
• Avedis Zildjian Company Electronic Drum Sets
• Avedis Zildjian Company Hi Hats
• Cannon Cymbals
• Crash Cymbals
• Cymbal Sets
• Cymbals
• Drum Set Accessories
• Ride Cymbals
• Sabian Cymbals
• Stagg Hi Hats

Cymbals are a crucial component of drum sets and play a vital role in the overall sound and dynamics of a percussion ensemble. Here are key points related to cymbals and their connection to drum sets, musical instruments, and percussion:

1. Types of Cymbals:

   • Hi-Hats: Consist of two cymbals mounted on a stand and played with a foot pedal. They can be closed or opened to produce a range of sounds.
   • Crash Cymbals: Used to produce loud, crashing accents. Drummers often strike them with drumsticks for emphasis in certain parts of a musical piece.
   • Ride Cymbals: Typically larger and produce a sustained sound. They are used for rhythm keeping and can vary in thickness for different tonal characteristics.
   • Splash Cymbals: Small, quick-collapsing cymbals that produce a short, bright sound. They are often used for quick, punctuating accents.

2. Materials:

   • Cymbals are commonly made of alloys, with bronze being a prevalent material. The specific alloy blend can significantly impact the sound produced.

3. Construction:

   • Cymbals are typically made by forming a metal disc and then hammering it to shape.The lathing process involves removing some metal to shape the cymbal and influence its sound.

4. Sizes:

   • Cymbals come in various sizes, and the size influences their sound characteristics. Larger cymbals tend to have a deeper, more sustained sound, while smaller ones produce quicker, brighter tones.

5. Sound Characteristics:

   • Each type of cymbal and its specific size and construction contribute to its unique sound. Drummers often select cymbals to achieve a balance and variety of tones in their drum kit.

6. Placement in Drum Sets:

   • Hi-hats are typically placed to the left of the snare drum, crash cymbals on either side of the drum kit, and ride cymbals on the right. The arrangement allows drummers to access different cymbals for varied sounds during a performance.

7. Techniques:

   • Drummers use various techniques to play cymbals, including striking them with drumsticks, using mallets, or employing techniques like crashes, rides, and chokes (partially muting the sound).

8. Effect on Dynamics:

   • Cymbals play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of a musical piece. They can add accents, transitions, and provide emphasis at key points.

9. Maintenance:

   • Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to preserve the sound quality of cymbals. Over time, cymbals may develop patina or oxidation, affecting their tonal characteristics.

10. Specialty Cymbals:

    • Some drummers use specialty cymbals, such as China cymbals with a distinctive shape and sound, or effects cymbals like stacks and splashes to add unique textures to their playing.

Cymbals are integral to the rhythmic and tonal palette of drum sets, contributing to the overall character and expression of a musical performance. Drummers often experiment with different cymbal combinations to achieve the desired sound for a particular musical genre or style.