Splash Cymbals

About splash cymbals

Splash cymbals, the delightful wonders of the percussion world, are beloved for their captivating effects. With a swift and concise "pishhh" sound, they create a charming and distinctive "mini-crash," adding a touch of enchantment to any drumming ensemble.

Unleash the Magic

Often used as captivating effects cymbals, splash cymbals excel in producing short, brilliant bursts of sound. Their unique character shines when combined with beats on the snare drum, creating mesmerizing short breaks that leave the audience wanting more. But don't be fooled - these cymbals are just as delightful when played solo, showcasing their true charm in the hands of a skilled drummer.

An Artful Addition to Your Drumming

Like master painters adding delicate strokes to their canvas, skilled drummers effortlessly weave splash cymbals into their rhythms to create moments of pure musical brilliance. Take inspiration from legends like Manu Katché and Vinnie Colaiuta, whose masterful use of splash cymbals alongside Sting's iconic melodies showcases the artistry and finesse that these cymbals can bring to a performance.

Perfect Your Splash Style

Unlock the secrets of perfect splash playing by exploring the vast array of sounds and techniques available. With a wide range of splash cymbals to choose from, each offering its own unique tonal palette, you have the opportunity to find the perfect match for your musical style and expression. Embrace the challenge and embark on a journey of discovering your own signature splash sound.

Elevate Your Drumming

Incorporating splash cymbals into your drumming toolkit can elevate your drum work for musical compositions to new heights. With their captivating effects and expressive potential, these cymbals become an essential element of your sonic arsenal. Whether you're creating subtle textures or prominent effects, splash cymbals are the artistic brushstrokes that add brilliance and allure to your drumming canvas. Embrace the magic and embark on an enchanting musical adventure with a new splash cymbal from CymbalONE.

The story of Splash Cymbals

Splash cymbals have an interesting history rooted in the evolution of jazz and experimental music. The term “splash” is a bit descriptive of the sound these small cymbals produce—quick, bright, and with a fast decay, much like a splash of water.

The development of splash cymbals is often credited to early jazz drummers, particularly those in the 1920s. One of the most famous early users was Gene Krupa, who popularized splash cymbals during the big band era. Drummers were seeking new ways to add color and accents to their performances, and splash cymbals, with their high-pitched and fast sound, fit perfectly for creating short, sharp bursts of sound. 

Zildjian, one of the oldest cymbal makers in the world, played a significant role in developing splash cymbals as part of their catalog, bringing them into more widespread use during the mid-20th century. They were embraced by drummers in a variety of genres beyond jazz, including rock and fusion, thanks to their versatility and unique tonal qualities.

By the late 20th century, splash cymbals became standard pieces in most drummers' kits, especially for those experimenting with complex rhythmic textures. From Stewart Copeland of The Police to Neil Peart of Rush, splash cymbals added bright accents to the overall sound of the drum set.

Today, splash cymbals are commonly found in sizes ranging from 6 inches to 12 inches, each with its own tonal character, and they're used across genres from jazz and rock to metal and beyond. Their distinct sound makes them a favorite choice for quick, expressive accents.