Tingsha are Buddhist cymbals used by Tibetan Buddhists. These cymbals can be rung as part of rituals and ceremonies, as well as for prayer and meditation. The sound of tingsha is enjoyed by many non-Buddhists, and these unique chimes are sometimes used to clear the air in a room or to focus people’s minds. Tingsha’s distinctive sound can also be heard on many new age meditation and relaxation tapes.
Pairs of these cymbals are always used. They are larger and heavier than Western and Middle Eastern cymbals, and they are connected by a leather or chain. To play tingsha, one cymbal is struck against the other, creating a piercing ringing sound. The cymbals are usually stored in a protective pouch or case when not in use to prevent corrosion.
Tingsha has been made by Tibetan Buddhists for centuries, using metal alloys containing a large amount of bronze to produce a long, clear tone. A tingsha chime’s sustained note is one of the cymbal’s most distinguishing characteristics; when of good quality and well manipulated, tingsha can ring for several minutes. Tingsha are sometimes coated with metals such as silver, gold, and copper to give them a unique look and tone.
Many modern tingsha are made by inexperienced craftspeople or mass production lines, and as a result, their sound is subpar. When the tingsha are struck, a high-quality pair of tingsha is perfectly matched, with each cymbal producing the exact same sound. They shouldn’t be dissonant; instead, aim for a clear, clean note with a long, lingering finish. As a result, many people prefer to try tingsha before buying it, and some even look for antique tingsha, which are usually better matched.
Tingsha, like many other Tibetan Buddhist ritual implements, appeal to non-Buddhists who are simply interested in Tibetan art, music, and culture. As a result, they’re frequently sold in shops that specialize in imported ethnic items to people who want to use them for meditation, prayer, or simply to create a desired environment. Some people believe that because tingsha are ritual objects, they should be treated with respect, even by non-Buddhists.