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Q & A
What is the difference between a Crash, Ride, HiHat?
Originally named by Avedis Zildjian III, Crash, Ride & HiHat are the three major categories into which all drum set cymbals fall. Cymbals from each category have now become the essential cymbals for not only the drum set artist, but for the all-around percussionist as well.
- Crash cymbals are used to accent beats in the rhythmic pattern and should reach a full sound as quickly as possible. The Crash tends to be a thinner and smaller cymbal than the Ride. Crashes should be set up high and slightly angled so they are easily played with the shoulder of the stick.
- Ride cymbals are used mainly to play different “ride” rhythmic patterns. This is why the Ride tends to be a heavier, larger cymbal than the others. A heavier cymbal will usually be louder and have a higher-pitched sound. You want to be able to hear the “ping” of the rhythm even when you are playing loud. You should generally set up your Ride so you can hit it with the tip of your stick comfortably.
- HiHat cymbals are used to establish a rhythmic time feel. The bottom cymbal is usually heavier than the top to help produce a brighter and more intense “chick” sound. When setting up your HiHats, make sure the tilter is adjusted to an angle so that the bottom cymbal meets the top in a way that will not cause an air pocket. The amount of space in between the hats should be set so it is comfortable for your foot to control them.
What are the special effects cymbals?
- China cymbals are the most popular of all Special Effects cymbals. It is used for unique, explosive accents. It is often mounted in an inverted position, which creates a faster response and more explosive sound than when mounted normally.
- Splash: (Also called “Choke” cymbals) Small cymbals 6 to 12 inches in diameter and usually thin in weight. They are used for fast crash work and can be choked off very quickly.
- Crash Ride: These are medium-thin cymbals, available in sizes 18 and 20 inches in diameter. They are suitable for both crash work as well as sustained ride cymbal playing.
- Flat Ride cymbals have no bell and generate a clean and precise ride articulation with a shimmering yet defined sound. They are best utilized in a jazz setting, when a clear sound is desired. (i.e. piano trios, vocalists, jazz guitar, etc.)
- Sizzle: 18 to 22 inches in diameter, in which holes are drilled and rivets are installed to give a sizzling or buzzing type of cymbal sound.
- Swish: Usually 18 to 22 inches in diameter, with an almost inverted profile. Swish cymbals normally have rivets installed to give a Chinese tonal effect and are especially useful in playing Big Band arrangements.
What is the difference between marching and orchestra/concert band cymbals?
- Marching Cymbals achieve excellent projection with a higher profile and heavier weight to emphasize mid-range overtones and enhance projection.
- Orchestra / Concert Band Cymbals are matched pairs that have a lower profile (bow) and are lighter in weight in order to offer an immediate response and a full range of overtones.
- Suspended Cymbals are thin or medium thin and normally played with yarn wound mallets. They are used for powerful crash accents and smooth crescendo effects.
What other sounds will my percussion section need?
- Orchestral Gong (aka Tam Tam): Individually cast and hand hammered in China, ranging in sizes from 26 through 40 inches in diameter. A full blend of highs and lows with beautiful overtones, plenty of attack and a long sustain.
- Oriental Wind Gong: An all-purpose, delicate, full range gong for the modern percussionist. Medium Thin.
- Crotales: Also called “Antique Cymbals”, are tuned chromatically and produce a clear, unblemished pitch when struck individually with mallets or when struck together in pairs. Crotales have a range from Middle C up two octaves. Standard tuning Is A-442 (other tunings available by special order).
- Cowbell: Produces a clear, high-pitched, cutting sound. A vital part of Latin music.
- Finger Cymbals: Produce a piercing, high-pitched sustained sound. Matched for a pleasing blend of tone. Available in thin & thick weights.
What other accessories will my percussion section need?
- Drummers Survival Kit: Contains an assortment of essential spare parts, felts, washers, etc.
- Cymbal Safe™ Case: Precision engineered to out-perform, and out-protect any case on the market. Holds up to twelve cymbals, to a maximum diameter of 21 inches, safely and securely.
- Deluxe Cymbal Bag: Attractive, tough black polyester cymbal bag with extra-strong stitching and special reinforced bottom edge enlarged for easy inclusion of China and other special effect cymbals. Foam padded and lined.
- Z-Pad: Dual surface practice pad featuring two distinct playing surfaces, padded bottom, and convenient rectangular size.
- Zildjian Hand Cymbal Cradle: Features adjustable cymbal arms with clear tubing and end bumpers to protect the cymbal, and can be folded flat when not in use and for easy transport. The Cradle is designed to fit most existing cymbals stands and is capable of holding cymbals up to 24 inches in diameter.
- Zildjian Suspended Cymbal Arm: Naturally suspends any cymbal up to 22 inches in diameter. Suspension from this “gooseneck style” arm will result in total freedom of resonance and enhanced overtones and shimmer. Fits any standard cymbal stand, or fits into the Zildjian Hand Cymbal Cradle to form a total cymbal workstation.
- Zildjian Z-Bag: This unique stick and mallet bag unfolds to reveal a padded cover that fits neatly over most solid-top music stands, creating the perfect percussion table. Stand stabilizing devices are included. Optional hardware to hold triangles, a wood block, and a small cymbal or crotale are also available.
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