Avedis Zildjian

The centuries-old story of Avedis Zildjian is rich in cymbalism. Zildjian, the world's #1 maker of cymbals, is the oldest family-run firm in the US. In 1623 Turkey, Armenian alchemist Avedis created an alloy for making cymbals. (A sultan named him "Zildjian," or cymbalsmith.) The company moved to America in 1929. Traditionally, the father passed the secret metallurgical formula on to the eldest son, but in 1976 Craigie Zildjian (named CEO in 1999) became the first female family member to be employed there. Zildjian also makes drumsticks and, through subsidiary Malletech, other percussion instruments. Craigie's uncle Robert owns rival cymbal-maker Sabian, which also uses the secret formula.

Pearl Musical Insturment Co.

Pearl Musical Instrument is a manufacturer, wholesaler, and exporter of percussion instruments, flutes, and other musical instruments and accessories. The company operates in the US through its Pearl Corporation subsidiary. Pearl, which is widely known for its drums, supplies percussionists in such bands as The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Bon Jovi with instruments. The firm is also a supplier to marching bands. Its Adams line of products is designed for concert orchestras. Pearl Musical Instrument is managed by the family of Katsumi Yanagisawa, who founded the company in 1946.