Introduction to Handpans
An ever evolving multicoloured tapestry of innovation and creativity. Standing out amidst this colourful repertoire is an entirely exceptional addition of the handpan. This melodic creation stole the heart of multiple musicians as wellas music fans, offering a harmonious performance thatcovers boundaries and activates sensors.
What is a Handpan?
A handpan (aka a hang drum or hand pan drums) is an incredible type of melodic percussive instrument made out of stainless steel and formed with two, deep drawn pans that are attached together to make the shape of a convex lens. Usually constructed of a variety of metals, typically steel or wood and more rarely glass and ceramic… (The metal band is known as the skirt.) It forms an open bottomed hemisphere intended to be laid upon a standard floor with its concave part facing up. A series… In the hands, they sound amazingly beautiful and haunting collectively asyou can elicit a broad spectrum of human emotions just from these tone fields.
The History of Handpans
The handpan was the second generation that Felix Rohner and Sabina Scharer had conceived of in Switzerland, a pair of avant-gardists more than forward-thinking. Their resulting creation (which they initially named the “Hang”) quickly gained fame within a worldwide community of musicians and fans, sparking awe not only for this masterful new instrument but at their exceptional craftsmanship. These variations have created an expanding range of sounds we can get out of our handpans, with each generation and facture adding their own contributions to the evolution – yet in some ways there remains a single common ground from which all these elements branch out.
What is the Reason to Own a Handpan
The handpan is truly a beautiful instrument to invest in, and with one you can unlock so many musical paths within yourself. Take a look at some of the great reasons to own this magnificent musical instrument,
- Therapeutic Advantages: The handpan is known for its therapeutic benefits. The calm, tranquil sounds and slower breathing rhythms are relaxing; they help reduce stress & anxiety or can make you peaceful.
- The handpan is small and yet very versatile. It works so well in a diversity of musical contexts that span lengendiary ambient and world music to more contemporary and experimental styles.
- Portability: handpans are very light compared to other traditional instruments, which is ideally suitable for travelling musicians and those who have less space.
- The unique sound: There is no other instrument in the world that sounds quite like a handpan does and its haunting, ethereal properties can create an atmosphere or spark emotion with audiences. Playing this instrument is more personal and expressive.
With so many handpans for sale, what elements should we use to determine which will be best?
Before we get into how you would best enter the handpan marketplace, I wanted to mention a couple things that must be at play when searching for an instrument.
- Scale and Tuning: The major, minor or pentatonic scales are commonly used on handpans. Every scale comes with its own distinctive tonal colour, so if you are leaning more towards kind of music pick a different one.
- Size and Material: A variety of sizes for handpans that could be made from steel alloy or nitrided steel can categorize them. The weight, durability and tonal characteristics of an instrument are affected by its material composition & size.
- Brand and Reputation: The good, successful handpan manufacturers are able to maintain their reputation only thanks to the dedication & craftsmanship they invested in for many years now. Do your own research and pick a brand that you think is of quality, and also speaks to the style of artist/visionary you in fashion.
- Price Range: Handpans can be expensive because the cost of time and quality materials(double), will often reflect on selling price, which sometimes reaches many thousands(>%) in saving money. Set a good realistic budget and quality over price is kind of always the best investment.
The Best Places to Look for Handpans For Sale
Since handpans have become such a popular choice for people looking into the music world, finding them available to purchase is now easier than ever before. Do more research on these Authentic sources
- Online Stores: Specialized online stores, offering diverse types of handpans manufactured by different brands for various tastes and budgets.
- Handpan Makers: Keep in mind to buy from the reliable handpans maker or dealers itself. This way, you can get in touch with the builders and even maybe get your instrument customized.
- Local Music Stores: In some instances, a well-stocked music store will carry handpans and this can be good if you are able to go in person to check it out before making the purchase.
- eBay, Reverb (for used and new handpans at all price points)
Tips for Buying a Handpan
With those proper precautions in place, then a potential handpan buyer might consider the following ideas before purchasing:
- It is very important to Know Your Product: Spend time researching the different handpans, brands and read their reviews. This would give you clarity in terms of whether to buy or not, and help understand what each tool allows.
- Establish a Budget According to Your Financial Conditions: Handpans are not cheap, so decide on an investment budget that goes hand in hand with the quality and ability of your purchase.
- Test it out: If you can, go to any handpan workshops or events and/or visit music stores where the instrument is easy accessible. This can give you an idea of the sound and experience before committing to a purchase.
- Think of any Accessories: When buying a Handpan, it will be good also to search for compatible extras like bags or covers,sticks mallets,stands etc this can help you sound better and safeguard your new instrument.
How to Care for Your Handpan
Taking care / maintaining your handpan is very important to make the most of it and keep its original beauty for a long time. Here are some essential tips:
- Handle with Care: Handpans are fragile instruments, treat them gingerly and keep from dropping or excessive force.
- Moisture: Handpans should be protected against moisture because it might damage the handpan with some corrosion over time.
- After Using: Always wipe your handpan with a clean, dry cloth after using to remove any dirt or fingerprints.
- Store It Well: When you are not devoting your time with this instrument, keep it in safe bag or store in a cool dry area where the sun will never touch and avoid both hot climate.
- Get Help: If your handpan needs tuning or other work, consult a certified handpan technician or the manufacturer to prevent spoilage of instrument.
Techniques and Styles of Playing Handpan
Handpan is versatile and can be played in different styles and techniques.
- Playing Melodically: Tap the tone fields delicately with your hands – as identified by experienced players, when played melodiously (composedly) all together they are like a beautiful tune sung which can make people feel that there is nothing better than silence.
- Rhythmic possibilities: Strike the tone fields in any sequence to generate captivating grooves and beats, experimenting with all different rhythmic potentials.
- Slapping and Tapping the Side: Slap or finger tap (more like lightly punch) different parts of your handpan to get added depth/textures in playing.
- Techniques improvisation : Go where the handpan sounds take you, explore improvisations with your creativity and emotions.
- Playing Along: With its ability to blend with other instruments (guitars, drums and electronics) in your ensemble or music project, the handpan can make for a wonderful addition.
Conclusion: Get Your Ideal Handpan Now!
The handpan is an amazing instrument that has captured the minds and hearts of musicians, with its notes using out around the globe. But, with its unique sound and relaxing properties a handpan could well introduce you to new worlds of musical possibilities on top of all that personal fulfillment.
If you are a handpan enthusiast, then let us take you through the journey of melodies to find out which one suits and is best for YOU by showing You our selection with high quality instruments that only we can provide. Our experienced team will assist you along your journey in making an informed choice drawing on the inspiration that feeds into what drives us as musicians. Feel free to contact us with any questions of inquiries, we’re here for you when it comes time to bring the melodic magic of handpans into your life and creative endeavors. Commence your excursion with the handpans now!
