The Avedis Zildjian Company, universally known as Zildjian, is the world’s leading and most historic manufacturer of cymbals and other percussion instruments.

The Gold Standard in Cymbals Since 1623

• World’s Oldest Musical Instrument Manufacturer:  Zildjian is the oldest musical instrument manufacturer in the world and one of the oldest continuously operating family-owned businesses globally.
• Foundation: The company was founded in 1623 in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul, Turkey) by Armenian alchemist Avedis Zildjian I. The family name, Zildjian, was bestowed by the Sultan and literally means « cymbal smith » or « son of a cymbal maker. »
• The Secret Alloy: The foundation of Zildjian’s legendary sound is a closely guarded family secret—an alloy of copper, tin, and traces of silver discovered by Avedis I while he was attempting to create gold. This unique bronze formulation is still used today in all Zildjian cast cymbals.
• Relocation and Modernization: The company relocated to the United States in the 20th century. In 1929, Avedis Zildjian III established the Avedis Zildjian Company in Massachusetts. He revolutionized cymbal making for the modern drum set by collaborating with jazz legends like Gene Krupa and introducing now-standard terms like « ride, » « crash, » and « hi-hat. »¹¹
• Product Line: Zildjian manufactures a wide range of cymbals, covering all musical genres, from their flagship lines like the bright, classic A Zildjian series and the dark, complex K Zildjian series, to modern innovations like the A Custom and electronic drums. They also own and market Vic Firth drumsticks and Balter Mallets.
• Manufacturing Process: Every cast cymbal is the result of a multi-step, 14-person process that combines the family’s ancient secret alloy, heating, rolling, sophisticated machine and hand-hammering, and lathing to achieve its final weight, profile, and unique sound. Each cymbal is sonically tested to ensure it meets the highest standards before it receives the « Zildjian kiss » (the logo stamp).

Zildjian’s four-century legacy is defined by a commitment to quality, innovation, and musical expression, making their products the definitive choice for professional drummers across the globe.