The hypnotic, compelling custom of movements to rhythm is as ancient as mankind itself. Percussion devices, the conveyors of rhythm, were the first instruments created; integral parts of the rites of celebration, mourning and religion.
With the advent of the Bronze Age, the musical quality of metals naturally became an important tonal addition to the existing instrumentality. Derived from the Greek word "Kymbala", cymbals were the most beautiful and versatile of these rhythm accessories.
The use of cymbals actually affixed to the thumbs and middle fingers of dancers' hands was recorded as early as 500 A.D. Today, Finger Cymbals (Arabic: "Sagat" or "Sunouj;" Turkish: "Zills"; Persian: "Zang") are popularly played by dancers on both the cabaret and the concert stage. The intricate musical patterns they create and their sparkling sound quality make the cymbals indispensable to Middle Eastern music.
Harry Saroyan has researched and developed an exquisite collection of Finger Cymbals, encompassing both historic and contemporary designs. Each set carries its own distinctive tonal effect. Saroyan cymbals have been acclaimed and endorsed by internationally known dancers, instructors, musicians and recording artists.
Good sources for additional information are the Middle Eastern Resource Guide and Shira's Introduction to Finger Cymbals.
FITTING AND CARE OF FINGER CYMBALS
Cut the provided elastic in four equal pieces, insert the ends through the slots from the top, fitting the elastics over the thumb and middle finger. Adjust to desired fit, then sew the ends together on the inside of the cymbals and trim off the excess. This prolongs the life of the elastics and prevents muting the sound of your cymbals.
To prevent discoloration, occasionally polish with Turtle Wax© or Brasso© Metal Polish and hand buff with a soft cloth.
