splash cymbal

A cymbal (a circular brass plate measuring from 6 to 16 inches across) that sits on a stand at an angle as is part of the drum kit (drum set), and is struck with drumsticks or brushes to keep a rhythmic pulse of the composition. This splash cymbal is named for the explosive splash sound that it produces. It is used to provide special accents in a composition where its special sound will add a unique effect.