Overview
A handpan is a musical instrument that originated in the 21st century. It is a type of idiophone, which means that it produces sound by vibrating its entire body when struck. The handpan is made of two steel half-shells that are glued together, creating a resonant chamber. The top shell has a number of indentations, or “notes,” that are hammered into the metal, creating a series of tuned “tongues” that produce distinct pitches when struck.
Handpans are played by striking the notes with the fingers or hands, creating a rich, bell-like sound. They are often used in meditation and yoga practices, as well as in live musical performances. The instrument is often played solo, but it can also be used in ensembles with other instruments, such as guitars and drums.
Handpans were developed by a small group of instrument makers in the early 21st century, and they continue to be produced by a small number of skilled artisans around the world. Because they are handmade and labor-intensive to produce, handpans are generally quite expensive and can be difficult to obtain.
How it produces sound?
Handpans produce sound through the vibration of the metal when struck. The instrument consists of two half-shells of hardened steel that are typically around 20-24 inches in diameter. The top shell, or “ding,” is convex with a central note and a number of indentations, or “tone fields,” hammered into it. The bottom shell, or “gu,” is concave with a hole in the center that serves as a sound port.
Each tone field on the top shell is tuned to a specific pitch, and when struck with the fingers or hands, it vibrates and produces a clear, sustained note. The tuning of the handpan is typically arranged in a way that allows the musician to play a melody with the right hand while playing accompanying harmonies and rhythms with the left hand.
The sound of the handpan is characterized by its rich, warm, and resonant tone, which is often described as a mix between a steel drum, a harp, and a bell. The unique combination of the tuned tone fields, the resonant chamber of the half-shells, and the sound port on the bottom shell all contribute to the distinctive sound of the handpan.
Handpans usually used in a variety of musical genres, but they are particularly well-suited for meditative, contemplative, and world music styles. The warm, resonant tones of the handpan create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere, making it ideal for use in yoga, meditation, and sound healing practices.
Different types of handpans
There are several different types of handpan, each with its own unique sound and characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of handpan:
- Hang: The Hang is one of the original and most popular handpans. It was invented by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer of PANArt in Switzerland. The Hang has a distinctive sound and is known for its warm, mellow tone.
- Halo: The Halo is a handpan that was created by Dave Beery of Pantheon Steel in the United States. It has a bright, clear sound and is known for its sustain and projection.
- Spacedrum: The Spacedrum is a handpan made by Metal Sounds in France. It has a very pure and clean sound, with a good balance of bass and treble notes.
- Bali Steel Pan: The Bali Steel Pan is a handpan made in Bali, Indonesia. It has a rich and warm sound, with a strong bass and clear high notes.
- Caisa: The Caisa is a handpan made by Meinl Percussion in Germany. It has a bright and lively sound, with a good range of high and low notes.
- Rav Vast: The Rav Vast is a handpan made by the Russian company Rav Drum. It has a unique design and sound, with a deep, resonant bass and a bright, clear treble.
- Ayasa: The Ayasa is a handpan made by Ayasa Instruments in India. It has a powerful and expressive sound, with a good balance of low and high notes.
Overall, the handpan is an amazing instrument that combines unique tonal qualities with a high degree of versatility and creative potential. Its distinctive sound and expressive capabilities make it a beloved instrument among musicians and music lovers around the world.