Chimes

Chimes are effect percussion instruments with suspended metal, wooden or composite bars, tubes or plates. When struck with a mallet, brushed by hand or moved by air, they create a bright shimmering sound with different lengths of sustain. They may also be called wind chimes, bar chimes or mark trees, but they are not jingles or standard small bells.

How to choose chimes

First decide whether you need a precise stage effect, a subtle studio transition colour or freer wind chimes for decorative and ambient sound. When choosing, compare the material, number of bars, hanging method and length of sustain.

Material, bar count and sustain

Metal and aluminium chimes sound bright and cutting, while wood or carbon feels softer and shorter. More bars give you a fuller sweep, and longer bars usually add a deeper tone with longer decay. If you want a specific character, also check the tuning, chord or seed chimes label in the product name. Proven choices include Shamann chimes, Meinl chimes and Sela chimes.

Where you can use them

• Studio/band: shorter controlled sustain highlights transitions, entries and song endings.
• Ambient/meditation: a softer sound and longer sustain create a relaxing atmosphere without health claims.
• Wind chimes/decorative use: choose an air-sensitive model where the sound should feel natural and free.