These one-of-a-kind instruments represent Armand’s vast contributions to the development of the modern cymbal, his collaborations with the top drummers of the day, and his legacy as the Father of Artist Relations. The Zildjian company is pleased to offer this limited release in celebration of Armand’s 100th birthday and all that he achieved in his illustrious life.

A little bit about the history of Armand Zildjian…

Zildjian has been a family run business since 1618 when Avedis Zildjian I, an Armenian alchemist, discovered a secret process for treating alloys and was able to apply it to the art of making extraordinary cymbals. The secret process is passed down throughout all the generations in the family and finally lands in the hands of 14-year-old Armand Zildjian in 1935, who quickly embraces the legacy of the company and begins to learn the ins and outs of the secret cymbal making process. By 1940, Armand is sent off to fight in World War II, while his father, Avedis III works with 2 other men to fulfill American and British Military orders and keep the business afloat. In 1945, Armand returns from the war ready to assume all responsibility for the manufacturing side of the business and is able to start to experiment with developing new sounds and following the ever-changing musical trends. Armand Zildjian becomes known as the “Father of Artist Relations”, developing close personal relationships with all the top drummers and percussionists, such as Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Max Roach, Shelly Mann, to name a few…

In 1977, 56-year-old Armand Zildjian was appointed President of the company and invests millions into updating the manufacturing and research & development in the newly created Sound Lab. He was responsible for the creation of some of the best lines of Zildjian cymbals to this day, most notably the K series, and the A series.  In 1999, Armand names his daughter Craigie Zildjian, the Chief Executive Officer of Zildjian, becoming the first woman to ever hold that position. His younger daughter becomes the Vice President of Human Resources and assumes responsibility for the same secret process of combining alloys.

Sadly, in 2002, Armand passes away in his home in Arizona at the age of 81, and the company is passed over to the 14th generation of Zildjian, Armand’s daughters. In celebration of what would have been his 100th birthday, Zildjian have released 100 cymbals from Armand’s personal collection and we have been able to get our hands on just one!! 1 out of only 8 in the UK!! If that’s doesn’t scream what a special product this is I don’t know what will! Get your hands on this set before someone else does, you won’t regret it!

Each Limited Edition Set Includes:

• 20″ Vintage Cymbal
• Limited Edition Armand Zildjian Drumsticks
• Zildjian Inspection Gloves
• Signed and Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
• Limited Edition Armand Zildjian Book
• Limited Edition Road Case

Code:

• IN-AZ100-LTD