What are cymbals?
Q: What are cymbals?
A: Cymbals are percussion instruments that look like saucepan lids, but with a jutting out middle and straps.
Q: How are cymbals typically played?
A: There are two ways of playing cymbals. One way is to use a pair of the same cymbal, holding one in each hand and banging them together. The other way is to use just one cymbal, hanging it on a stand and hitting it with a beater, stick or wire brush.
Q: What size can cymbals be?
A: Cymbals come in different sizes ranging from 25 cm across to 60 cm across.
Q: Do cymbals give any particular pitch?
A: No, normally they do not give any particular pitch. However there are small ones based on an old form of cymbal called “crotales” as well as Chinese ones with turned-up edges that may produce some kind of pitch.
Q: In what types of musical groups can we find the use of cymbals?
A: Cymbals can be found in many different musical groups such as orchestras, jazz groups, percussion groups and bands including marching bands. A drum kit always has at least one type of cymbol which could either be a crash symbol or hi-hats (a pair operated by pressing a pedal).
Q: Are there any special techniques for playing the cymabls?
A: Yes, depending on the sort of sound wanted you can rub the edges together for a very quiet sound or hit them together as your arms form a circle letting them vibrate for longer time if you want louder sounds. You can also hit it at its edge, middle or half way between depending on what sound you want to achieve.
