Avedis Zildjian I (the first) was an alchemist in the city of Constantinople in the seventeenth century. His attempts to create gold by combining base metals led instead to a copper, tin and silver alloy with unique
Avedis Zildjian III
sound qualities. Avedis used this discovery to create cymbals of spectacular clarity and power. The sound of the instruments was extraordinary, and as his reputation grew he was given the name “Zildjian”, an Armenian word meaning “son of cymbal maker.”
The Zildjian secret alloy is now four centuries old. It has been passed down between Zildjian heirs for fourteen generations
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Avedis Zildjian I (the first) was an alchemist in the city of Constantinople in the seventeenth century. His attempts to create gold by combining base metals led instead to a copper, tin and silver alloy with unique
Avedis Zildjian III
sound qualities. Avedis used this discovery to create cymbals of spectacular clarity and power. The sound of the instruments was extraordinary, and as his reputation grew he was given the name “Zildjian”, an Armenian word meaning “son of cymbal maker.”
The Zildjian secret alloy is now four centuries old. It has been passed down between Zildjian heirs for fourteen generations. Currently, Armand Zildjian’s two daughters, Craigie and Debbie are continuing the family tradition. Zildjian has been officially recognized as the oldest continually family-owned business in America.
The Zildjian brand stands for more than expertise and a rich heritage of high quality craftsmanship. Its essence is found
Zildjian Factory 2004
in every thread of the drumming community, weaving together students, teachers, pros, old, young, and everyone in between.
From the beginning, the leaders of the company have stayed close to the working musicians in order to understand their experiences and needs. By sustaining these close bonds and looking to them for insight into the design and manufacturing of innovative and extraordinarily sounding cymbals, Zildjian has maintained its position as the world’s leading cymbal and drumstick manufacturer.
Zildjian’s reputation for exceeding customer expectations and needs can be attributed to both its sharp focus on continuous quality improvement and innovation, and its emphasis on the family character and rich tradition of the business. Zildjian’s enduring values—leadership, commitment to quality and craftsmanship, passion for music and fun, music education, and a strong family heritage and culture—have guided the company in carrying out its vision over the years.
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