Contextual Associations

Antique cymbals, also called crotales, is a concussion idiophone. It is an auxiliary percussion instrument used sparingly in the orchestra and more regularly in works for percussion ensembles. Some early music groups also incorporate this instrument into their arrangements. In this article we are discussing only the single pair version of antique cymbals or crotales--see the separate entry for crotales in which a chromatic set of struck discs is discussed.

Description

The antique cymbals consist of two identical, thick, domed plates of bronze (a copper and tin alloy) with almost flat rims. Each plate of the pair is 2.4 inches in diameter. Due to the general vessel/dome shape of each plate, it is actually their broad rims that come into contact and that vibrate with the greatest energy, much like a bell. Each cymbal has a hole drilled in the apex of its dome that allows for the attachment of a handle strap. 

Player - Instrument Interface and Sound Production

A player holds one plate in each hand by its strap, and either brings their faces into contact with a passing motion or holds them side by side with their faces down and swings the rim of one against the rim of the other. Either way, a delicate ringing tone with a well-defined pitch is produced. It is typically used as a coloristic effect. For a video illustrating the player-instrument interface for this instrument, view the Philharmonia Orchestra website chapter on percussion [skip to 14:16 in the video for the segment pertaining specifically to the antique cymbals].

Origins/History/Evolution

Cymbals like the one pictured here have been found in ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece. Similar instruments are found in many Asian music traditions, although often utilized as a time-keeping instrument. Modern versions of the antique cymbals have been used in the orchestra only since the 19^th century. Most of these are manufactured by companies in, or originating in, Turkey. 

Bibliographic Citations

Blades, James. 1970. Percussion Instruments and their History. New York: Frederick A. Praeger, Publishers.

________. 1984. “Cymbals.” NGDMI v.1: 529-532.

Brindle, Reginald Smith. 1991. Contemporary Percussion. London: Oxford University Press.

Holland, James. 1978. Percussion. New York: Schirmer Books.

“Instruments.”  Philharmonia Orchestra website, accessed September 14, 2015: http://www.philharmonia.co.uk/explore/instruments