Ride Cymbal

Kit & Gear

Also called ride.

The ride is the big, heavy cymbal on your right, built for repeating strokes instead of one big splash. When you strike the bow, the main surface, you get a clear ping mixed with a wash underneath. That combination is called the ride sound, and it's the backbone of jazz.

Riding means keeping time on the cymbal: the classic jazz swing pattern is ping-ping-pa-ping across the ride with the hi-hat chicking on two and four. Rock and pop players also ride during choruses because a steady ride pushes a band harder than a closed hi-hat. The bell, the raised centre, cuts through anything when you need it.

Use a lighter stick on the ride than you think you need, and aim small strokes at the surface, letting the cymbal do the volume. Beginners hammer rides and end up with a harsh clatter and sore wrists. The ping comes from technique and a good cymbal, never from force.

Set the ride level or tipped slightly away from you, within easy reach so your right hand never has to travel. If you find yourself leaning into it mid-groove, move the stand closer now before it becomes a habit.