Sam Denov

Sam Denov retired as the percussionist and timpanist for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra after playing with the group in concerts, on the road and in recordings beginning in 1954.  Sam helped bring cymbal playing to a new level of recognition and professionalism when he wrote “The Art of Playing Cymbals” in the early 1960s. He worked with the Zildjian Company and later with Paiste Cymbals in creating concert level products and in conducting clinics that brought greater access to hand cymbal playing to students and professionals alike. He retired from the symphony in 1985.