KeghartBy Margarita Krtikashyan, Yerevan, 2 December 2024
It all began in 1623 when an Armenian alchemist named Avedis Zildjian revolutionized the world of cymbals and forever altered their role in music. According to the Zildjian family’s account, Avedis was conducting alchemical experiments in search of gold when he stumbled upon a unique alloy of copper, tin, and silver. This alloy produced a sound of remarkable clarity and resonance, unlike anything heard before.
Another version of the story suggests that Avedis was the son of Kerope, a metalsmith tasked by the Ottoman Sultan to create cymbals for the Janissary bands. These cymbals not only boosted morale among Ottoman troops but also struck fear into their enemies during battles. Sultan Osman II gave Avedis 80 gold pieces and the family name ‘Zildjian’, which means ‘cymbal smith’ in Armenian (Zil is Turkish for ‘cymbal’, dj means ‘maker’, and ian is the Armenian suffix meaning ‘son of’).
For over two centuries, the Zildjian family held an exclusive monopoly as the official cymbal makers for the Ottoman military. By the 18th century, their creations began to reach Europe, where they added a touch of exoticism to orchestras and operas. As the instrument’s use evolved, cymbals became an indispensable part of musical performances, far beyond their original military context. Classical composers began to incorporate cymbals into their works, with the first known example being German composer Nicolaus Adam Strungk in his opera “Esther”. During the 18th century, cymbals became increasingly popular in European military bands. In 1782, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart used cymbals to represent the popular Janissary music in his opera “Il Seraglio”. Twelve years later, Haydn used cymbals in his Symphony No. 100 in G major “Military”, signaling the increasing integration of cymbals into the classical music canon. During the mid-to-late 19th century, composers like Hector Berlioz and Richard Wagner began featuring an abundance of cymbals in their compositions, specifically requesting that only Zildjian cymbals be used. Cymbals achieved an important and permanent position in orchestras, enhancing the drama and intensity of classical music.
Despite the challenges faced by Armenians under Ottoman rule, the Zildjian family maintained their legacy, fiercely guarding the secret formula for their cymbals. The knowledge was passed down orally, from father to eldest son, ensuring its secrecy. However, the family’s fortunes shifted dramatically in the early 20th century when the Armenian Genocide and political turmoil forced many Armenians to flee their homeland.
In 1909, Aram Zildjian took over the family business but was soon compelled to flee to Bucharest due to his involvement in the Armenian liberation movement. Eventually, Aram returned to Turkey but lacked an heir. He turned to his cousin Avedis, who had emigrated to the United States. Together, they established the Avedis Zildjian Company in Massachusetts in 1929, marking the brand’s official entry into the American market.
Avedis’s ingenuity and business acumen turned the company into a global powerhouse. During the jazz boom of the 1930s, Zildjian cymbals became the choice of legendary drummers like Gene Krupa, Chick Webb, and Buddy Rich.
Even during World War II, when raw materials like copper and tin were strictly rationed, the Zildjian company secured government contracts to supply cymbals for military bands, ensuring its survival and growth.
The company’s enduring success can be attributed to its blend of tradition and innovation.
Avedis passed his passion for music and craftsmanship to his children, with Armand Zildjian leading the company into the rock and roll era. Armand’s deep love for music and connection to artists ensured Zildjian’s relevance across genres. Its interesting that, He famously brought employees to live concerts, believing it was essential for them to witness how their work resonated with audiences.
Today, Zildjian is recognized as the oldest family-owned business in the United States. Its cymbals remain a symbol of excellence, used by musicians worldwide. Yet, the heart of its story is undeniably Armenian—a testament to the resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage of a people who have weathered history’s harshest trials.
However, it’s important to mention a significant turning point in the family’s history. Avedis Zildjian, breaking from the family tradition, passed the secret of cymbal-making on to both of his sons, Armand and Robert. After Avedis’s death, a conflict arose between the two brothers. As a result, the Avedis Zildjian Company in Massachusetts remained under Armand’s control, while Robert Zildjian founded his own company, *Sabian LTD*, in Canada, named after the initials of his three children—Sally, Billy, and Andy.
Armand Zildjian, too, deviated from family tradition. He did not only pass the secret of cymbal-making to his son, Rab Zildjian, but also to his two daughters, Debi and Craigie Zildjian, who today hold leadership positions in Los Angeles and created the first “Zildjian Day” drumming clinic, which quickly became a model for Percussion Days in the music industry.
Zildjian also introduced the K/Z combination HiHats, the first HiHats created through the matching of the top cymbal from one range with a bottom cymbal from another. In 1995, the company further supported the orchestral community by designing a special room for cymbal matching and selection. Early visitors to this one-of-a-kind room included the Boston Symphony, London Symphony, and Royal Concertgebouw.
The Zildjian family’s legacy also includes the founding of the Sabian cymbal brand by Robert Zildjian, Armand’s brother. Sabian has continued the family’s tradition, creating cymbals that cater to a diverse range of musical genres, from jazz to rock and beyond. Both Zildjian and Sabian have remained at the forefront of the cymbal-making industry, with each cymbal crafted to produce unique tones that enhance the musical experience.
Today, Zildjian is recognized as the oldest family-owned business in the United States. Its cymbals remain a symbol of excellence, used by musicians worldwide. Yet, the heart of its story is undeniably Armenian—a testament to the resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage of a people who have weathered history’s harshest trials.
For Armenians, the Zildjian legacy is more than a musical triumph; it’s a cultural milestone. It represents how one Armenian family transformed adversity into artistry, crafting not just cymbals but a timeless rhythm that continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike.
In the hands of Armenians, the rhythm of music is not just a sound—it’s a legacy.
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Yerevan State University. Her research focuses on cultural policy, the role of music in diplomacy and politics, Armenian-Turkish relations, the issues of Armenians living in Turkey, and the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople. She is also interested in religion, culture, and music. e-mail: [email protected]
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