Introduction to Scimitar drum
The Zildjian Scimitar drum is a distinctive percussion instrument known for its unique crescent shape, inspired by the scimitar sword. This design allows for a narrow playing surface and a wide body, resulting in precise articulation and increased resonance. Constructed from B20 bronze, the drum undergoes a meticulous manufacturing process that includes cold-rolling and hand-hammering, which enhances its durability and imparts a rich, warm sound. The Scimitar drum is recognized for its bright, articulate tone and fast decay, making it versatile for various musical styles, from live performances to studio recordings. While it is considered a beginner-level instrument, many drummers appreciate its affordability and sound quality, often recommending it for those starting their drumming journey.
History of the Zildjian Scimitar Drum
Background of Zildjian Company
The Zildjian Company, renowned for its high-quality cymbals and percussion instruments, was founded in 1623 by Avedis Zildjian I, an Armenian alchemist and metalworker in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul, Turkey). Avedis discovered a unique alloy of copper, tin, and traces of silver while attempting to create gold, which produced exceptional musical tones. This discovery led to the creation of cymbals that gained popularity among Ottoman military bands and Mehter ensembles due to their clarity and sustain. Over the centuries, the Zildjian family maintained the secret of their cymbal-making techniques, passing them down through generations.
In 1929, the Zildjian family relocated to the United States, establishing the Avedis Zildjian Company in Quincy, Massachusetts. This marked a significant transition, as the company expanded its production and began to cater to a broader audience. Throughout the mid-20th century, Zildjian became synonymous with quality in the drumming community, with notable drummers like Gene Krupa and Ringo Starr endorsing their products. The company continued to innovate, introducing various cymbal series and expanding its product line to include drumsticks and other percussion accessories, solidifying its status as a leading manufacturer in the industry.
Introduction of the Scimitar Line
The Zildjian Scimitar line was launched in 1986, targeting beginner drummers looking for affordable yet quality cymbals. This line included a variety of models such as rides, crashes, and hi-hats, designed to provide a bright and articulate sound suitable for various musical styles. The Scimitar cymbals were made from CuSn8 alloy, which contributed to their durability and tonal characteristics.
Despite being positioned as entry-level instruments, the Scimitar cymbals gained a reputation for their distinctive sound and construction, appealing to novice drummers. However, they were eventually discontinued in 1997 as Zildjian shifted its focus to higher-end products and innovations. The Scimitar line remains a notable part of Zildjian’s history, representing the company’s commitment to providing accessible options for aspiring musicians.
Design and Construction
Unique Shape and Aesthetics
The Zildjian Scimitar drum’s distinctive shape is inspired by the curved blade of a scimitar sword. This unique design results in a narrow playing surface and a wide body, which contributes to its exceptional sound and playing characteristics.
The narrow playing surface allows for precise articulation and control, enabling drummers to execute intricate rhythms and patterns with ease. The wide body, on the other hand, enhances the drum’s resonance and sustain, providing a rich and full-bodied sound.
This unique shape not only affects the drum’s sound but also its visual appeal. The Scimitar drum’s crescent-like form sets it apart from traditional cylindrical drums, making it a visually striking instrument that commands attention on stage or in the studio.
Materials Used
The Zildjian Scimitar drum is constructed from B20 bronze alloy, a material renowned for its durability and tonal qualities. The B20 alloy, which contains 80% copper and 20% tin, is known for its bright, clear, and long-lasting sound.
To create the Scimitar drum, the B20 bronze is subjected to a meticulous cold-rolling process. This process increases the density and strength of the metal, resulting in a more focused and controlled sound. The cold-rolling also imparts a distinctive hammered finish to the drum’s surface, adding to its visual appeal.
After the cold-rolling process, the bronze sheet is carefully hand-hammered by skilled artisans. This labor-intensive process further enhances the drum’s durability and imparts a unique tonal character. The hammering technique creates subtle variations in the metal’s thickness, which can affect the drum’s overtones and sustain.
The combination of B20 bronze alloy and the cold-rolling and hand-hammering processes results in a drum that is both visually striking and sonically impressive. The Scimitar drum’s materials and construction methods contribute to its bright, articulate sound and fast decay, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of musical styles and applications.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process of the Zildjian Scimitar drum involves several critical steps that ensure its exceptional quality and durability. Here’s a detailed look at the process from cutting to polishing:
Cutting:
- The B20 bronze sheet is precisely cut to the desired shape and size using specialized cutting tools.
- The cut pieces undergo rigorous inspection to ensure they meet the required specifications.
Hammering:
- The cut bronze pieces are then subjected to a meticulous hand-hammering process by skilled artisans.
- This process involves using specialized hammers to create a unique hammered finish on the surface of the drum.
- The hammering technique also helps to enhance the drum’s durability and impart its distinctive tonal characteristics.
Lathing:
- After hammering, the drum is lathed to achieve the desired thickness and playing surface.
- The lathing process ensures that the drum’s thickness is consistent throughout, contributing to its overall sound quality.
Edge Rolling:
- The edges of the drum are then rolled to provide a smooth and comfortable playing surface.
- This process helps to prevent any sharp edges or burrs that could potentially cause discomfort or injury to the player.
Polishing:
- Finally, the drum undergoes a thorough polishing process to achieve a brilliant finish.
- The polishing step removes any imperfections or blemishes on the surface, enhancing the drum’s visual appeal.
Quality Control:
- Throughout the manufacturing process, the Scimitar drum undergoes rigorous quality control measures to ensure its durability and sound quality.
- Each step is carefully monitored by experienced technicians to identify and address any potential issues.
- The finished drums are subjected to extensive testing to ensure they meet Zildjian’s exacting standards.
Sound Characteristics
Tonal Qualities
The Zildjian Scimitar drum is known for its distinctive sound profile, which is characterized by brightness, articulation, and fast decay. These tonal qualities make the Scimitar drum a versatile choice for a wide range of musical styles and applications.
The brightness of the Scimitar drum is achieved through its unique design and construction. The thin, hammered shell and the B20 bronze alloy used in its manufacturing process contribute to its clear, cutting sound that cuts through the mix with ease. The articulation of the Scimitar drum is another key feature, allowing for precise rhythmic patterns and intricate playing.
One of the most notable characteristics of the Scimitar drum is its fast decay. Unlike some higher-end cymbals that have a longer sustain, the Scimitar drum’s sound dissipates quickly, making it ideal for fast-paced musical styles and complex rhythmic figures. This fast decay also prevents the drum from becoming overpowering in the mix, allowing other instruments to shine.
Comparison to Other Drums and Cymbals
When compared to higher-end Zildjian models, the Scimitar drum may not have the same depth, complexity, and sustain. However, it more than makes up for this with its bright, articulate sound and fast decay, which are well-suited for beginner and intermediate drummers.
Many drummers perceive the Scimitar drum as a solid, workmanlike instrument that delivers good value for its price point. While it may not have the same prestige as some of Zildjian’s premium offerings, the Scimitar drum is often praised for its durability, reliability, and overall sound quality.
Playing Techniques
Stick Placement
Stick placement on the Zildjian Scimitar drum significantly affects the sound produced.
- Center of the Drum: Striking the center generates a clear, fundamental tone with a strong attack and longer sustain. This area produces a more focused sound that is ideal for playing rhythms that require clarity and presence, making it suitable for solos and melodic passages.
- Edge of the Drum: Playing near the edge results in a brighter, more articulate sound with a shorter sustain. This technique is often used for accents and faster playing, as the sound is more cutting and can help to create a sharper attack, which is beneficial in ensemble settings where clarity is crucial.
- Different Angles: Varying the angle at which the stick strikes the drum can further alter the timbre and volume. A steeper angle can produce a louder, more piercing sound, while a flatter angle yields a softer, more resonant tone. Experimenting with these placements allows drummers to explore a wide range of sounds and effects.
Hand Techniques
The way drummers hold their sticks and execute techniques can greatly influence their performance on the Scimitar drum.
- Traditional Grip: This grip involves holding the stick between the thumb and index finger, with the remaining fingers curled around the stick. It offers good control and allows for a wide range of techniques, making it suitable for various styles, including jazz and orchestral music.
- Matched Grip: In this grip, both sticks are held similarly, with the thumb and index finger on top and the remaining fingers below. This grip is often preferred for faster playing and provides greater dexterity, making it ideal for rock and pop genres.
- Double Strokes: This technique involves playing two consecutive hits with the same hand, creating a rapid-fire effect. Mastering double strokes requires precise timing and coordination, allowing drummers to achieve intricate patterns and fills that enhance their musical expression.
Dynamic Range and Versatility
The Zildjian Scimitar drum is known for its wide dynamic range, making it suitable for various musical styles and settings.
- Live Performances: The bright and articulate sound of the Scimitar drum allows it to cut through the mix in live settings, making it effective for genres such as rock, pop, and jazz. Its fast decay ensures that it doesn’t overwhelm other instruments, allowing for a balanced sound.
- Studio Applications: In studio recordings, the Scimitar drum’s versatility shines through. Its ability to produce a range of tones—from bright and cutting to warm and resonant—makes it suitable for different musical styles, from acoustic to electronic. Drummers can utilize various playing techniques to achieve the desired sound for specific tracks.
User Experiences and Opinions
Positive Feedback
Many drummers have shared positive experiences with the Zildjian Scimitar drum, often highlighting its affordability and sound quality. Beginners appreciate its bright, articulate tone, which helps them develop their skills without breaking the bank. Anecdotes from players reveal that the Scimitar drum has served as a reliable instrument during practice sessions and live performances, providing a good balance of sound and durability.
Criticisms and Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, the Scimitar drum has received some criticisms. Common complaints include concerns about sound quality compared to higher-end models, particularly regarding depth and complexity. Some drummers feel that the fast decay may not suit all musical styles, especially those that require longer sustain. Additionally, while the drum is generally durable, some users have reported issues with the longevity of the finish and hardware over time.
Recommendations for Beginners
For beginner drummers, the Zildjian Scimitar drum is often recommended as an excellent entry-level instrument. Its affordability, combined with its bright and articulate sound, makes it an ideal choice for those just starting their drumming journey. The Scimitar drum allows beginners to explore various playing techniques and musical styles without a significant financial investment. As they progress, drummers can appreciate the Scimitar’s versatility and sound quality, making it a valuable addition to their setup.
Conclusion
Zildjian Scimitar drums and cymbals, produced from 1986 to 1997, were an entry-level line aimed at beginner and budget-conscious drummers. The Scimitar line, while not matching Zildjian’s premium cymbals, offered a reliable option for beginner drummers. Made from B20 bronze using cold-rolling and hand-hammering, Scimitars had a bright, articulate sound with fast decay, suitable for various genres. Further, the affordable line included rides, crashes, hi-hats, chinas, and splashes, making Zildjian quality accessible to more players. While some drummers appreciated the value of the Scimitars, others found them lacking compared to higher-end cymbals.
Also read: Boonie Hat: Choosing the Perfect One!
FAQs
Are Zildjian Scimitars still made?
No, the Zildjian Scimitar line was discontinued in 1997 as the company shifted its focus to higher-end products and innovations.
Are Zildjian Scimitars good for beginners?
Yes, the Scimitar line was designed specifically for beginner drummers, offering an affordable option with a decent sound quality and durability.
What is the difference between Zildjian Scimitars and higher-end Zildjian cymbals?
Higher-end Zildjian cymbals typically offer a more complex, nuanced sound with greater depth and sustain compared to the bright, articulate, and fast-decaying sound of the Scimitar line.
Can I still find Zildjian Scimitars for sale?
Since the line was discontinued in 1997, finding new Scimitar drums and cymbals may be challenging. However, used Scimitars can still be found on the secondhand market, such as online marketplaces and local music stores.
Are Zildjian Scimitars worth buying today?
For beginner drummers on a budget, Scimitars can still be a viable option, providing a decent sound quality and durability at an affordable price point. However, as drummers progress, they may want to consider upgrading to higher-end Zildjian or other cymbal brands to expand their tonal palette and sound options.
