Final answer:
Hi-hat cymbals are cymbals that can be played with a foot pedal, a vital part of a drum kit used across various music genres.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cymbals that can be played with a foot pedal are commonly known as hi-hat cymbals. The hi-hat is a staple component of a standard drum kit. It consists of two cymbals mounted on a stand, with one cymbal being mounted upside down on top of the other. The drummer can use a foot pedal to bring the two cymbals together, which produces the characteristic 'chick' sound when played with the foot, or a sharp, crisp sound when struck with drumsticks while the cymbals are closed. The hi-hat cymbals can also be played while open, which creates a more sustained, shimmering sound.
Hi-hats are used in a wide variety of musical genres to keep rhythm and add texture to the music. The ability to vary the sound by changing the pressure on the foot pedal or by playing them in an open or closed position makes the hi-hat an extremely versatile part of the drum set.