The sound created by the tingsha is a plea to the gods- whom the drums have called down to earth- to remain here. They are rung to start or end a meditation or teaching , or simply to create a moment of quiet concentration . The two cymbal- shaped metal disks are struck together at right angles , producing a loud sound with a unique shimmering quality. The tingsha or cymbals are made of brass and have a concavity in the center to which a cord is attached. They are played by holding the cord and letting the bells strike each other.