Royal Cymbals was born out of the need to create the best sounding instruments for drummers who have a wide range of sound needs.
Paul Francis spent decades learning everything there is to know about cymbal making, earning an engineering degree, and inventing countless techniques, sounds, and breakthrough cymbal models. Paul became known as one of the premier cymbal makers in the world. He created the Cymbal Craftsman boutique line of cymbals and set up a cymbal custom shop, which includes modifications and fully customized cymbal offerings. He has now teamed up with Sarah Hagan to launch the Royal Cymbal Company to encompass standard cymbal models, as well as the Cymbal Craftsman line and custom shop.
Sarah Hagan spent decades building relationships, and learning everything possible about cymbal sounds and drummers’ sonic needs. While working with the world’s top drummers, and seeking out and signing the best up-and-coming artists, she also lent her ears and a musician’s perspective to the cymbal creation process. In 2000, Sarah launched a consulting company, working with top brands in the drum industry and created a drumming podcast called Sarah Hagan Backstage, eventually partnering with other drumming podcasters to create The Drum Click, the world’s first drum podcast network.
Over the years, Paul and Sarah have worked together, along with the world’s greatest drummers, to create many of the modern cymbal sounds you hear in live music and on countless recordings. They continuing to do this into the future with Royal Cymbals!
Royal Cymbals Team
Paul Francis
35 years of cymbal making expertise
Sarah Hagan
Over 20 years of cymbal, artist relations, brand, and marketing expertise.
Jeff Westhaver
35 years of cymbal sound experience.