After playing several musical styles I understand the unique demands of worship music and the importance of choosing the right cymbals to reproduce the drumming sound of worship drummers.
The following is a list of the cymbals that I tested and think are the best picks for the style. This article aims to guide you through selecting the best cymbals for you, combining practical experience with an understanding of what makes each cymbal special.
Whether you’re playing in a contemporary Christian setting or a traditional gospel environment, the right cymbals can elevate your sound. Let’s see what cymbals made my list.
The first cymbal pack I picked was the Zildjian K Custom Dark Cymbal Set, I’m a fool for Zildjian I must admit. While playing with them I particularly noticed their exceptional response during a soft worship ballad. The low undertones and the subtle wash that produced during quieter segments created a deeply spiritual ambiance.
Contrariwise, when I played more vigorously during an upbeat praise song, these cymbals delivered a robust sound without overwhelming the music. Their ability to adapt dynamically to different playing intensities truly sets them apart as a versatile choice for various worship settings.
After playing the first set I picked a set of the Meinl Cymbals Mike Johnston Byzance Set, and it was a amazing. This set has been put together by the great Mike Johnston.
The first thing that struck me was their exceptional clarity. Each cymbal, from the crisp hi-hats to the resonant ride, contributed to a pristine sound palette, perfect for articulate playing.
During a session of worship music, their nuanced tones shone through, allowing for expressive, subtle playing. In more energetic tunes, they projected clearly without becoming harsh, proving their worth in a diverse range of worship settings.
For more about this cymbal pack see our full buying guide.
The Sabian AAX Praise and Worship Cymbal Set immediately impressed me with its balanced tonal spectrum, perfectly suited for the dynamic range of worship music.
Their bright, shimmering sound cut through the mix during high-energy praise moments, yet they retained a smooth character in softer passages.
Playing these cymbals felt like a dialogue, with each strike yielding a responsive and articulate sound, contributing to an immersive playing experience. Their versatility and expressiveness make them an excellent choice for any worship drummer. Plus it comes with a Splash cymbal as a bounes.
The Paiste Signature Classic Cymbal Set is a true standout. During my play test, what captivated me the most was their crisp, bright sound.
These cymbals are engineered for precision, making them ideal for intricate worship pieces. A cymbal that particular stands out on this set is the ride it just sounds right and super versatile.
They offer a glassy, shimmering quality, especially in the crashes, which adds a brilliant texture to the music. Whether it’s a gentle tap or a full swing, they respond with clarity and consistency, making them a top choice if you prefer a refined, articulate sound in you worship sessions.
To complete my best picks for Worship drumming I decided to play the Zildjian A Cymbal Set, their classic, versatile sound immediately stood out.
These cymbals are known for their bright, focused tones that blend well in any worship setting. They offer a balanced mix of sustain and decay, making them highly adaptable, whether it’s for a soft, contemplative piece or a lively praise song. From this set the Hi Hats are the highlights with super crisp sound.
Their durability and consistency in delivering quality sound make them a reliable choice for worship drummers who need cymbals that can perform well across a wide range of musical styles.
The best cymbals for a church will depend on the size of the church. If the church is small, dry cymbals with minimal sustain will work wonders. If it’s big, larger cymbals with a dominant sound would be good. Warmer tones are often preferred, but it always comes down to the size of the venue.
Cymbals that are dark with complex tones generally sound the best. However, it comes down to personal preference and some drummers prefer bright cymbals. Any cymbal that is made with higher-quality metal will sound better than entry-level cymbals.
The K line of Zildjian is the most popular high-quality series of cymbals. Every cymbal in that line has a beautiful tone that is loved by pros and beginners alike. There’s a Zildjian K cymbal for every situation. Check my Zildjian Cymbals buying guide.
In conclusion, each of these cymbal sets brings something unique to the table, catering to the diverse needs of worship music.
From the warm, versatile tones of Zildjian to the crisp precision of Paiste, each set has its own character. Whether you’re leading a tranquil worship session or an upbeat praise, these cymbals can enhance your musical expression, helping to create a truly spiritual experience for your congregation.
If you found this guide useful you can also check my article about the best drum sets for church.
It’s a great thing to play drums in church. Never forget the value of serving!
Founder of TheDrumNinja
I’m crazy about drums, it’s been my passion since I was 12 years old. I played in numerous bands going through different styles like Rock, Progressive, Pop & Jazz-Rock. After being featured in major music publications (Drumeo, Guitar Guitar, AudioIssues, MusicThinkTank) I started this website to share my knowledge and create a resource for drummers of all levels.
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