16.9.16

Understanding The Istanbul Mehmet Cymbals

By Timothy Clark


A cymbal refers to a percussion instrument that is quite common. A cymbal is usually used in pairs. The instrument is composed of thin, usually round plates made from a wide range of alloys. The pitch in most kinds of cymbals is usually indefinite, although the small disc-shaped versions that are based on ancient designs often produce a definite note. Istanbul Mehmet cymbals are very common and find use in many different events.

The term cymbal has its origin in the Latin term, cymbalum. Cymbalum is a Latinized version of the Greek term kymbalon. The term kymbalon is in turn derived from the word cup, bowl. In orchestral scores, words from different languages may be used to indicate cymbals. Some amongthe languages used in orchestral scores are French, Italian, Spanish, and German. The different words in the various languages are derived from the term plates.

A cymbal originated in the ancient world. There are reliefs in different places with representations of this instrument, indicative of its existence in ancient worlds. Some among the places it was used include Assyria, Anatolia, Babylon, ancient Rome, Hittite, Larsa, and ancient Greece. There are also Bible verses that describe various people using the device to give praise to God.

The introduction of the device into China happened between the 3rd or 4th century AD. By the 14th century, the instrument was already in use in Turkish janissaries. Introduction into Europe happened later in the 17th century and the instrument was widely played in orchestras and military bands. The call for a larger role to be played by the instrument in the nineteenth century led to increased diversity in the hardware, shapes, and techniques.

The features and structure of a cymbal contribute largely to the sound it makes. The instrument has a hole drilled at its center. The hole is used for mounting on stands or for inserting straps when the instrument is meant for hand playing. The region around the hole is usually raised and it is called the cup, dome, or bell.

The sound produced by the cup is usually of a higher pitch than other parts. The rest of the surface that makes up the area surrounding the cup is called the bow. There are two main areas that are used to describe the bow, that is, ride and crash area. The ride area is thicker and is closer to the cup. On the other hand, the crash is thinner and is closer to the edge.

The rim or edge refers to the immediate circumference of the instrument. The diameter is the main factor based upon in measuring the instrument. Centimeters or inches are the main units of measurement used. Size affects sound production a lot. Sounds in larger cymbals are louder and are characterized by a longer sustain.

The weight of a cymbal is described by its thickness. Thickness is significant to the kind of sound produced and the general playing of the instrument. Those that are heavier produce louder volumes that are more cut. Heavy instruments also have better stick articulation. In a thinner cymbal, the sound is fuller. They also have lower pitch and quicker response.




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