belly dance costume > Info > Finger cymbals

Finger cymbals

Once you have entered the world of belly dancing, you have probably begun to learn about the many different accessories that you may need. Zills, otherwise known as finger cymbals for belly dancing; are tiny metallic cymbals used during a routine. Finger cymbals are used as a means of keeping a good rhythm during a belly dance routine, and are often times the only source of music for the dancer to move to.

The zill (or zils) is a tiny metallic cymbal set, similar to the Tibetan tingsha bells. They are commonly found in a diameter of around five centimeter. However, dancers that have become efficient in utilizing zills may use a second larger set. These sets can be found in numbers of two, and four. However more commonly found in sets of four. Allowing for two per hand.

While modern finger cymbals have changed, the music has not. However, the means of securing it to the dancer’s fingers has changed slightly. Most finger cymbals now come with elastic to attach it to the thumb and middle finger of each hand. This elastic being threaded through a tiny hole on each middle-section of the finger cymbal.

Much like any other instrument, the zill can be used to produce many different sounds. Often times taking a little practice to master. However, most belly dance teachers will offer classes on finger cymbals as well. The means of producing a beautiful rhythmic sound with finger cymbals is to lightly strike the rims of the zills together. Often times causing flourishes in the standard music, rather than utilized as the main source of music.

The one down-side to zills, is that they can be fairly difficult to find. While a few belly-dance specialty shops will offer a small selection for you to choose from. However, if you take your search for finger cymbals online; the world of differences begin to open up. Websites such as this one, will offer a wide selection for you to choose from. Often times allowing you to select several different shapes, and sizes depending on your experience level. Remember, as with any part of your belly dancing costume or props, you should always consider the quality before you purchase. While your standard brass, steel, and silver finger cymbals will be made of quality material. There are a few retailers who sell poor-quality items that simply will not function properly. Quality, quality, quality!

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