Types of Handpan Instruments

The handpan is more than an instrument; it’s a gateway to self-expression, healing, and the joy of music. Its enchanting sound can transport you to a place of serenity, whether you’re a seasoned musician or a curious beginner. 

As you embark on this journey, understanding the handpan’s anatomy and the types available will help you find the one that truly resonates with your heart and purpose.

At Sound Artist Music & Handpan School, we believe the right handpan doesn’t just make music—it becomes an extension of your soul. 

Let’s dive into the beautiful world of handpans, step by step, so you can discover the instrument that’s calling you.

Handpan Anatomy Basics

To truly connect with the handpan, it is helpful to know what makes this instrument so special. So, let's break it down first.

1. Dome: The top surface of the handpan is referred to as dome. Its structure allows a handpan the beautiful resonance. It’s where the notes are tuned to create the melodic magic unique to this instrument.

2. Ding: At the heart of the dome lies the Ding—the central note. This is often the handpan’s lowest and most grounding tone, setting the mood for your musical exploration.

3. Tone Fields: Surrounding the Ding are the tone fields, carefully tuned to specific pitches. These fields combine to form the handpan’s scale, offering a harmonious blend of notes for you to play.

4. Gu: Flip the handpan over, and you’ll find the Gu, a circular opening on the underside. This hole enhances the instrument's resonance and allows for additional techniques, such as bassy percussive sounds or breath-like effects.

Each component works in harmony, creating the handpan’s ethereal and healing sound—a sound that has captivated hearts worldwide. 

Now that you are well-versed with the basics, let’s explore the variations of this beautiful instrument.

Types of Handpan Instruments

Handpans are as diverse as the people who play them, offering something unique for every style, mood, and journey. 

Let’s dive deeper into the different types of handpans and what makes each special:

1. By Scale and Tuning

The scale of a handpan determines its emotional tone and character. Think of it as the personality of the instrument.

• Major Scales:
  Major scales are known for their uplifting, bright, and cheerful vibes. They’re perfect for creating music that feels like sunshine and happiness. Popular choices include the D Major or C Major scales, which offer harmonious melodies that evoke joy and playfulness.

• Minor Scales:
  If you’re drawn to soulful, meditative, or introspective music, minor scales might resonate with you. These scales often carry a deep emotional pull, making them ideal for calming or reflective moments. Common options include the D Minor Celtic or A Minor scales, offering hauntingly beautiful tones.

• Exotic Scales:
  For adventurous souls who crave something out of the ordinary, exotic scales open the door to unique and culturally rich sounds. For example, the Hijaz scale adds a Middle Eastern flair, while the Kurd scale evokes a mysterious and dreamy quality. These handpans are perfect for storytelling through music.

2. By Material and Construction

The materials and craftsmanship of a handpan influence its durability, resonance, and tonal quality.

• Nitrided Steel:
  This type is treated to resist rust and wear, making it a popular choice for durability. It delivers a warm, balanced tone with clear resonance, ideal for players looking for reliability in various environments.

• Stainless Steel:
  Known for its bright, resonant sound, stainless steel handpans have a longer sustain, meaning notes linger beautifully in the air. They are also weather-resistant, making them excellent for outdoor playing or humid climates.

• Coatings and Finishes:
  Handpans come in a range of finishes, from matte and smooth to hammered and textured. While aesthetics are a factor, these finishes also subtly influence the instrument’s sound, with some adding a more earthy tone and others enhancing clarity.

3. By Size and Number of Notes

The number of notes on a handpan affects its range and complexity.

• Standard Handpans:
  Typically, these handpans have 8-9 notes arranged around a central Ding. They offer a balanced range of tones, making them great for beginners and versatile enough for experienced players.

• Extended Range Handpans:
  For those who want more musical possibilities, extended-range handpans feature 10 to 15 notes. They require a bit more skill to master but reward the player with an expanded tonal palette.

• Mini Handpans:
  Compact and portable, these smaller handpans usually have 5 to 7 notes. They are perfect for musicians on the go. Despite their size, they retain a beautiful sound and are often tuned to scales that make them easy to play.

4. Specialized Handpans

Some handpans step outside the traditional design, offering unique features for specific purposes.

• Hybrid Handpans:
  A combination of a handpan and a tongue drum, hybrid handpans create a fusion of percussive and melodic sounds. They’re great for players looking for versatility and creativity.

• Electric/Amplified Handpans:
  Designed for performers, these handpans come with built-in pickups or microphones, making them perfect for concerts or recording. You can amplify the sound or add effects for a more dynamic performance.

• Double-Sided Handpans:
  These rare gems have two playable surfaces, each tuned to a different scale. It’s like having two handpans in one, offering unparalleled versatility and tonal richness.

Now that you know about the available types of handpans in the market, how about knowing their origin?

Handpan Origins and Innovations

The handpan’s evolution is a remarkable testament to human creativity, musical innovation, and the dedication of artisans around the world. Its journey from a niche creation to a global phenomenon is rooted in the pioneering efforts of a few key innovators and their groundbreaking contributions.

The Original Hang

The handpan’s story begins with the Hang, created by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer of PANArt in the early 2000s in Bern, Switzerland. Inspired by the steel pan and other percussive instruments like the Ghatam and Udu, the Hang introduced a revolutionary design. His convex steel shell is tuned to produce melodic and harmonious tones.

The Hang’s enchanting, ethereal sound resonated deeply with musicians and listeners alike, earning it widespread acclaim. Its name, derived from the Bernese German word for “hand,” reflects its emphasis on touch and connection.  

Saraz Handpan

In the years following the Hang’s debut, a growing community of makers began exploring the possibilities of this new instrument. Saraz Handpans, founded by Mark Garner in the United States, was among the first modern handpan makers to emerge.

Saraz not only crafted high-quality instruments but also played a pivotal role in popularizing the term “handpan.” By adopting this term to describe their creations, Saraz helped differentiate the broader category of instruments inspired by the Hang from PANArt’s original design.

Known for their meticulous craftsmanship and beautiful tonal quality, Saraz handpans set a benchmark for excellence, inspiring countless builders and players worldwide.

Pantheon Steel

Pantheon Steel, led by Kyle Cox and Jim Dusin, contributed significantly to the evolution of the handpan with the introduction of the Halo handpan. Their innovative approach to tuning, material selection, and design set a new standard for sound quality and durability.

Pantheon Steel also fostered a sense of community within the handpan world, organizing events and engaging with players and makers alike. The Halo became one of the most sought-after instruments, reflecting Pantheon Steel’s commitment to blending artistry and technical expertise.

Their dedication to quality and collaboration has helped shape the modern handpan landscape, making it more accessible to musicians around the globe. Let’s take a look at its expansion and global reach.

Expansion and Global Reach

From its humble beginnings with the Hang, the handpan has grown into a global phenomenon, attracting musicians, builders, and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

First Five Handpans

The handpan's journey began with a diverse group of pioneers: the Hang by Felix Rohner & Sabina Schärer, the Saraz by Peter Hess, the Halo by Pantheon Steel, the Caisa by Kaisos Steel Drums, BElls by BEllart, the Spacedrum by Metal Sounds, and the Opsilon by Opsilon Instruments. Each of these early creations, born from unique artistic visions and crafted with meticulous attention to detail, brought a distinct voice to the emerging instrument.

These early innovators, through their artistry and ingenuity, not only laid the groundwork for the handpan's evolution but also enriched the world with a captivating new soundscape. Their contributions continue to inspire and shape the vibrant community of handpan players and builders today.

Worldwide Builders

What began with a handful of makers has expanded into a thriving global community of over 400 handpan builders. Each builder brings their cultural influences, techniques, and innovations to the craft, resulting in an incredible variety of designs, scales, and sounds.

This worldwide network of builders has made the handpan more accessible, ensuring that musicians from every corner of the globe can experience its transformative power. The community’s growth also fostered collaborations, festivals, and online forums, creating a sense of unity among handpan enthusiasts.

Alternative Names and Their Origins

As the handpan grew in popularity, so did the variety of terms used to describe it. These names reflect the instrument’s cultural influences, evolving identity, and the diverse perspectives of its makers and players.

• Pantam: Introduced by Victor Levinson, this term is widely used, particularly in Israel, and is embraced by many players around the globe.

• Handpan vs. Hand Pan: While “handpan” is the most common term, some prefer “hand pan” to highlight its percussive nature.

• Other Names: Builders and players often use unique terms to describe their instruments, reflecting cultural influences and personal connections.

Discover Your Handpan at Sound Artist Music & Handpan School

Every handpan has a story, and every player brings it to life in a unique way. At Sound Artist Music & Handpan School, we’re here to guide you in finding the instrument that resonates with your soul. Whether you’re looking for your first handpan or an upgrade, we offer expert advice and a community that shares your passion.

Start your journey today—explore our handpans, schedule a free session, or join a class to begin your musical adventure!