Cymbal
A cymbal is a concave, metal percussion instrument that produces a shimmering, sustained sound when struck, and it is integral to many musical styles from orchestral to rock.
Explore Percussion with music dictionary guides to drums, cymbals, mallets, rhythm, technique, tuning, and ensemble roles.
A cymbal is a concave, metal percussion instrument that produces a shimmering, sustained sound when struck, and it is integral to many musical styles from orchestral to rock.
Timpani, also known as kettle drums, are tunable percussion instruments that form the backbone of the orchestral rhythm section, providing pitch, resonance, and dramatic emphasis.
The triangle is a small metal idiophone that produces a bright, resonant tone when struck with a metal beater. It is a staple of orchestral and band percussion sections, valued for its ability to cut through textures and accent rhythmic patterns.
The bongo is a pair of small, open‑bottomed drums of Afro‑Cuban origin, played with the hands. It is a staple of Latin music and has been incorporated into many worldwide musical styles.
The snare drum is a shallow, cylindrical drum with metal wires (snares) stretched across the bottom head, producing a sharp, staccato sound. It is a central component of drum kits, marching ensembles, and many orchestral and popular music settings.
A drum kit, also called a drum set, is a collection of percussion instruments arranged for a single player. It typically includes a bass drum, snare, toms, hi‑hat, and cymbals, and is central to many contemporary music styles.
The glockenspiel is a tuned metal‑bar percussion instrument known for its bright, bell‑like tone. It appears in orchestras, marching bands, film scores and popular music, providing a distinctive high‑frequency voice.
The bass drum is the largest and lowest-pitched drum in a drum set or marching ensemble, producing deep resonant beats that anchor rhythm. It appears in orchestral, marching, popular, and electronic music, serving both musical and dramatic functions.
The marimba is a pitched percussion instrument consisting of wooden bars struck with mallets, producing resonant, mellow tones. It is used in classical, jazz, and world music traditions worldwide.
The conga is a tall, single‑headed drum of Afro‑Cuban origin, played with the hands and central to many Latin music styles. It appears in ensembles ranging from traditional rumba to contemporary pop, providing characteristic rhythmic patterns.