crash cymbals

A matched pair of cymbals (circular brass plates) that are held by leather straps and hit together to make a loud, metalic crashing sound. They are typically used in concert bands, symphonic bands, and symphony orchestras to provide loud dramatic crashes at high points in the composition, softer crashes to provide a wider spectrum of sounds, or often a constant rhythmic pattern to keep a rhythmic pulse of the composition (as in a march).