Hi-hat cymbals are a pair of cymbals mounted on a stand, used primarily in drum kits. They consist of a top cymbal and a bottom cymbal, which can be opened and closed using a foot pedal. This allows drummers to create a variety of sounds, from a tight "chick" sound when closed to a wash of sound when opened. The hi-hat is essential in many music genres, including rock, jazz, and pop. It helps maintain rhythm and adds texture to the music. Drummers can also play the hi-hat with drumsticks, producing different dynamics and accents in their performance.