Cymbal

Cymbals are a common percussion instrument. Cymbals consist of thin, normally round plates of various alloys. The majority of cymbals are of indefinite pitch, although small disc-shaped cymbals based on ancient designs sound a definite note (see: crotales). Cymbals are used in many ensembles ranging from the orchestra, percussion ensembles, jazz bands, heavy metal bands, and marching groups. Drum kits usually incorporate at least a crash, ride or crash/ride, and a pair of hi-hat cymbals.

Etymology and names

The word cymbal is derived from the Latin cymbalum, which is the latinisation of the Greek word κύμβαλον kymbalon, "cymbal", which in turn derives from κύμβη kymbē, "cup, bowl".

In orchestral scores, cymbals may be indicated by the French cymbales; German Becken, Schellbecken, Tellern, or Tschinellen; Italian piatti or cinelli; and Spanish platillos. Many of these derive from the word for plates.

History

Cymbals have existed since ancient times. Representations of cymbals may be found in reliefs and paintings from Hittite Anatolia, Larsa, Babylon, Assyria, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, and ancient Rome. References to cymbals also appear throughout the Bible. Cymbals may have been introduced to China from Central Asia in the 3^rd or 4^th century.