Handpan & Tongue Drum

What is the origin of the handpan?

This instrument was born in Bern, Switzerland, where Felix Rohner and Sabina Schårer They built this multifaceted instrument called the Hang. Felix Rohner was the first major player of a musical instrument called the Trinidad. Steel drum, which was recognized in Europe in the early 70s. With a good understanding of the steel drum, he created in 1990, with his partner Sabrina Scharer, PANArt, a well-known company for creating dented musical instruments. It was only in 2001 that Felix and Sabrina officially presented Hang at the Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany.

The handpan and its other names

Panart has registered the name of its musical instrument, so many manufacturers have had to find other names to call it. You may hear or read these names around you: Handpan, Hang Pan, Hang Drum, handrum, Pantam, Saucer or else Steel drum

What is the price of a handpan?

As a general rule, the price of a handpan varies from 1500 to 3000 euros, depending on the manufacturer of the instrument. Our handmade handpans are known for their best value for money. In 90% of cases, handpans are found at a price too high compared to the quality offered. ZenaPan® offers high-quality handpans (handmade) at a price between 720 € and 2200€! We want all players, from beginners to experts, to enjoy unique instruments at a cheap, or at least affordable, price.

How does the handpan work?

When handling nitrided steel, it presents some dimples tuned on a diatonic scale. When struck, the dimples produce sound by affecting the air inside. It is released through a hole located in the lower half of the instrument. The hang is often tuned to a single scale. Anyone can play beautiful music with a well-tuned handpan, even without musical knowledge.

Is it complicated to learn the handpan?

No. The handpan is an intuitive musical instrument that is very easy to play. You just need to improvise. If this is your first instrument and you haven't taken any music theory lessons yet, rest assured. You will be able to easily create your first melodies. In any case, the soothing sound will immerse you in deep relaxation. It will transport you and your mind to immense happiness. You will see, this iconic instrument will make you feel like a musician forever.

Should we play with our hands or chopsticks?

As the name suggests, with the hands. There are still many accessories that can be purchased to play the handpan. Such as mallets or gloves.

Playing the handpan with gloves

The gloves change the sound of the hang. The tone is noticeably shorter, slightly muffled, and quieter.

Play the hang with mallets

Yes, you can play your handpan with sticks. We do not recommend it because you have to tap very gently. It will detune the handpan much more quickly. The sound is different. It makes you think of a tongue drum.

Is the handpan a drum?

In a certain way, it is similar. Indeed, playing the handpan produces sounds and notes. But unlike a drum, the steel does not produce notes when it is under tension. It is rather the opposite, with nodal zones in steel subjected to compression stresses. That is to say, the steel is pushed outward, it is deformed.

Each note is deformed to a particular degree, & each works in harmony with the other notes in a particular scale. Not only do you have the note as a melody, but thanks to a very ingenious process, harmonics are introduced to enrich the sound. They also provide special oscillation frequencies. It often takes time to make a custom handpan because there is a long waiting list. Nevertheless, this is not the case at ZenaPan. 

How long does it take to learn to play it?

In one hour you will be able to get used to your handpan and strike it in the right way. You will easily be able to play beautiful music, even though you will make small mistakes at the beginning. This is normal for a beginner.

Practice tapping the handpan with your fingertips, the joint of your thumb, and the palm of your hand. There are several ways to play with small subtleties that will come with time. You will make beautiful music very quickly.

To learn faster, you can purchase online courses like those from David Charrier that we highly recommend. It's a very good investment.

Which frequency to choose between 440hz and 432hz?

• 432 Hertz: If you are looking to relax your mind, use it. It is often said to have mystical properties. 
• 440 Hertz: This is the most well-known frequency. If you want to play with other instruments, take this one as they will (normally) also be tuned to this frequency. Most handpans are tuned to 440 Hertz.