Cymbal
A 22″ Avedis Zildjian cymbal | |
| Percussion | |
|---|---|
| Classification | Percussion |
| Hornbostel–Sachs classification | 111.142 if played in pairs, or 111.242 if played with a hand or beater (Concussion or percussion vessels) |
| Developed | 7th century BCE |
| Related instruments | |
| Crotales are sometimes called cymbales anciens | |
| Builders | |
| Zildjian, Sabian, Paiste, Meinl, Istanbul Agop | |
| More articles or information | |
| Clash cymbals, suspended cymbal, crash cymbal, ride cymbal, china cymbal, splash cymbal, sizzle cymbal, hi-hat, zill | |
The cymbals (/ˈsɪm.bəl/ ⓘ) are common percussion instruments. Often used in pairs, cymbals consist of thin, normally round plates of various copper alloys. The majority of cymbals are of indefinite pitch, although small disc-shaped cymbals based on ancient designs (such as crotales) sound a definite note. Cymbals are used in many ensembles ranging from the orchestra and percussion ensembles to jazz bands, rock bands, and marching bands. Drum kits usually incorporate at least a crash, a ride, or a crash/ride cymbal and a pair of hi-hat cymbals. A player of cymbals is known as a cymbalist.