Cimbale

Cimbale refers to cymbals in some languages, notably Italian, and to the family of percussion instruments that consists of a pair of metal discs. Cymbals are used to produce bright, penetrating sounds with short to long sustain, depending on size, thickness, and playing technique. In orchestral and modern contexts, a pair is typically mounted on stands and struck with sticks or mallets, or, in the case of hi-hats, operated with a foot pedal.

Construction and varieties: Most cymbals are made of bronze alloy and shaped by hammering. Sizes range from small splash cymbals a few inches in diameter to large ride or crash cymbals exceeding 20 inches. Common types include crash cymbals (accented, explosive), ride cymbals (steady, shimmering), splash cymbals (quick, bright), china cymbals (oriental, bell-like), and hi-hats (two cymbals operated by a pedal). Some cymbals are hand-hammered for tonal variation.

Playing technique and function: A crash cymbal is struck for a loud, reverberant note, while a ride cymbal is used for steady rhythmic texture. Hi-hats provide both a rhythmic “chick” sound from closing and a sustained wash when opened. In orchestral music, cymbals add accents, color, and climactic punctuation; in jazz and popular music, they contribute texture and pulse.

History and usage: Cymbals have ancient roots in Asia and were adopted into European ensembles by the Renaissance, evolving into the modern brass cymbals of the 18th–19th centuries. The development of the hi-hat in the early 20th century broadened their role in rhythm sections. Not to be confused with the cimbalom (a hammered dulcimer from Eastern Europe), which is a different instrument.