Hi-Hat Cymbals - Rhythmic Essentials for Drummers | Drum Center of Portsmouth

Hi-hat cymbals are a fundamental component of any drum kit, consisting of two cymbals mounted on a stand that can be opened and closed using a foot pedal. When the two cymbals come together, they produce a crisp and defined "chick" sound. When played with drumsticks, they create a versatile range of tones, from tight and controlled when closed, to more open and shimmering when partially or fully open. Hi-hats are essential for establishing rhythm and adding intricate patterns to music across various genres, from jazz and funk to rock and beyond. Their ability to provide both rhythm and texture makes them a dynamic element in any drummer's toolkit.

Discover the rhythmic versatility of hi-hat cymbals at Drum Center of Portsmouth. Essential for drummers in any genre, these cymbals offer a wide range of crisp and controlled tones to elevate your rhythm.

FAQ's About Hi Hat Cymbals:

• Why is it called a hi-hat cymbal?

  The hi-hat gets its name from its physical design. It consists of two cymbals mounted on a stand, with a foot pedal mechanism that allows the drummer to bring them together or separate them. In its early development, this cymbal set-up was called a "low-boy" due to its short height. Over time, it was elevated to a higher position to allow drummers to play it with their hands, hence the name "hi-hat."

• What are hi-hats used for?

  Hi-hats are used to keep time, add rhythm, and create a wide variety of sounds in a drum set. Drummers use them to play steady beats or intricate patterns, often alternating between closed and open hi-hat sounds. The hi-hat is a crucial part of many musical genres, adding sharp, crisp accents when closed and a looser, washier sound when played open.

• What material are hi-hat cymbals made from?

  Hi-hat cymbals are typically made from various types of bronze alloys. The most common materials include B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin), B8 bronze (92% copper, 8% tin), and brass (copper and zinc). The type of material affects the sound, with B20 bronze often producing a more complex tone, while B8 offers a brighter, more focused sound.

• What is the difference between a hi-hat and an open hi-hat?

  The difference lies in how the cymbals are played. When the hi-hat is closed, the two cymbals are pressed together by the foot pedal, producing a short, sharp, "chick" sound. When the hi-hat is open, the cymbals are allowed to separate, creating a longer, more sustained sound with a loose, "washy" effect. Drummers often alternate between closed and open hi-hat sounds to add dynamic variation to their playing.

• What is a hi-hat slurp?

  A hi-hat slurp is a specific technique where the drummer plays the hi-hat slightly open and then quickly closes it with the foot pedal, creating a sliding or "slurping" sound as the cymbals come together. This effect adds a unique texture to the groove and is commonly used in funk, jazz, and other rhythmically complex genres.