The “Cymbalic” Myth Buster: The Quiz

How much do you really know about cymbals? Do you know the facts from fiction, the reality from the myths? Take this simple 10-question quiz to find out your “Cymbalic” IQ.

1. Good cymbals are made of:

a. brass
b. bronze
c. aluminum
d. kryptonite

2. The best alloy for cymbals is:

a. 80% copper, 20% tin
b. 92% copper, 8% tin
c. 50% copper, 50% tin
d. aluminum

3. A large bell produces:

a. great tacos
b. more overtones
c. fewer overtones
d. a “sizzle”

4. A heavier cymbal produces:

a. a higher pitch
b. a lower pitch
c. more cholesterol
d. headaches

5. Compared to “machine-hammered” cymbals, “hand-hammered” cymbals sound:

a. strange
b. no different
c. higher & more “cutting”
d. lower & more “blending”

6. The higher the “profile”:

a. the more famous the cymbal
b. the duller the sound
c. the higher the pitch
d. the lower the pitch

7. An orchestral player never wants to hear this sound:

a. flam
b. sizzle
c. air pocket
d. scrape (zischen)

8. Most orchestral players hold their cymbals with:

a. a friend
b. straps with pads
c. straps without pads
d. the conductor

9. “Brilliant” finish is administered by:

a. heated wax
b. high-pressure buffing
c. a secret formula

10. Which TWO cymbals are “heavy”?

a. German
b. Viennese
c. drum corps
d. marching band

For solutions and detailed explanations, click here.

About the author

Dennis DeLucia
