What is a Ride Cymbal?
If you’re a drummer, you probably know exactly what a ride cymbal is. But if you don’t, you may have no clue. Basically, a ride cymbal is a part that appears on almost all drum sets. It is used by the drummer to create a steady beat. This beat, often referred to as a ride pattern, sets down a rhythmic pattern in opposition to crash cymbals, which are used to make accent sounds. Usually, the ride cymbal is located near the drummer’s main hand. Sometimes, the ride cymbal is replaced with another instrument like a maraca.There are some cymbals that are called crash/ride or ride/crash. These cymbals can provide both types of sounds, with the first word designating the cymbals main purpose. Crash/ride cymbals are more prevalent than ride/crash cymbals.
Ride cymbals make a shimmering noise instead of the short, loud noise of the crash cymbal. Generally, ride cymbals are around twenty inches around, but they can be anywhere from eighteen to twenty-two; some ride cymbals are even smaller or larger. The different sizes and thicknesses make different sounds. Smaller, thinner ones have more shimmer, while the larger ride cymbals are louder.
The ride cymbal’s sound can also be changed by using different mallets. Wood and nylon sticks are used in rock or heavy metal music. Wood sticks make a smoother sound, while nylon makes a sharper ping. In jazz, brushes are often used because they make a low vibration and low volume.
Ride cymbals are played by striking them in a regular, rhythmic pattern during rock or jazz music. The drummer sometimes keeps a steady pattern, but he or she may also vary the pattern by switching between the ride and the hi-hat cymbal. One is usually used during the verse while the other is used during the chorus or for instrumental music.
