Cymbals Direct

When you are just starting out as a drummer, you probably invested in a standard 5-piece kit. With a beginner's kit, your Cymbals generally fall into the Splash/Ride category with a Hi-hat thrown in. As you learn and grow as a drummer, you will find that you want to experiment with new sounds and different techniques. Adding additional Cymbals is a great way to do that, but is a China Cymbal really necessary for a beginner to intermediate drummer?

The construction of China Cymbals depends on the manufacturer and the type of China it is. Generally the Cymbal has a bell shape at the top, and can come in any number of finishes including brilliant, polished, or aged. The sound of a china cymbal varies depending on the type, but has been described as trashy, dark, or crisp. The variation in sound makes the China a great accent Cymbal. The specific sound you get depends on your stick technique, where some use the shoulder of the stick to generate the trashy sound. Others may use the tip of the stick for a sizzle sound.

China Cymbals are played for effect, so if you are just starting out as a drummer and are trying to master the backbeat and rhythm, having a China in your set up is not necessary. Depending on the type of music you are playing, you may wish to add one as you develop your drumming skills.

Chinas are used heavily in metal and grindcore music, but rock drummers will also play with them. An example of a rock drummer using a China is Daniel Adair from Nickelback, who uses a 19 inch Paragon China. Not all heavy metal drummers find use for China's, such as Matt Walker from Filter who only used a hihat, ride, and crash to create his brand of music.

If you find you want to buy a China for your set up, there are many different types and sizes available. Ranging in size from 12 inches to 20 inches, Chinas come in weights from thin to heavy. The smaller range of Chinas have less sustain, and as you progress through the sizes can produce a trashy, loud crack that will definitely add color to your set.

If you have the extra cash and want to add some original sound to your set, a China is a great Cymbal to buy. If you find that you really favor your rides and splashes, then you might want to continue using them for a time and wait on your China purchase. How far you will go as a drummer depends on your ability to provide an excellent beat, not on how many extra Cymbals you have in your set up.

Labels: China Cymbals, Cymbals Tips, Sabian Cymbals, Tips for Drummers