Cool Facts
Made from metal. Cymbals are crafted from thin plates of copper mixed with other metals to create the perfect blend for sound and durability.
Many sounds, one purpose. Most cymbals don't play a specific note like a piano key does, but some smaller ones based on ancient designs can actually ring out a clear pitch.
Used everywhere in music. You'll hear cymbals in orchestras, jazz bands, rock bands, and marching bands because they add excitement and energy to almost any type of music.
Essential drum kit part. Drum kits usually need at least a crash cymbal, a ride cymbal, and hi-hat cymbals to give drummers all the sounds they need for a complete performance.
The player has a name. Someone who plays cymbals is called a cymbalist, and they have to develop great timing and technique to make them sound just right.
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