The Origins of the Handpan: A Journey Through the History of a Mesmerizing Instrument
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The handpan is a modern instrument that fascinates with its hypnotic sounds and singular aesthetics. Yet, behind this futuristic appearance lies a rich history, influenced by traditional instruments from around the world and unprecedented craftsmanship innovation. Where does the handpan actually come from? How did it become the emblematic instrument of relaxation and meditation? Let’s discover its origins together.
1. Ancestral Roots: Handpan Influences
The handpan didn’t come out of nowhere. Its sounds and its way of playing are inspired by several old instruments:
- The Indian Ghatam : a terracotta jar used in Carnatic music, which produces a unique sound thanks to the clapping of the hands on its surface.
- The Steel Drum of Trinidad and Tobago : a hammered steel drum, created from recycled oil barrels, and tuned to produce melodic notes.
- The African Slit Drum : a wooden instrument with carved blades, which produces different notes when struck.
These influences guided the creation of the handpan, which merges percussion and melody to provide an intuitive and immersive musical experience.
2. The Birth of the Handpan in Switzerland
The handpan as we know it today is the result of the work of Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, founders of PANArt in Switzerland. In the 1990s, these craftsmen were working on the steel drum when they came up with a revolutionary idea: what if this instrument could be played with bare hands instead of being struck with drumsticks?
In 2000, after several years of experimentation, they unveiled a new instrument, which they called the Hang (which means “hand” in Swiss-German dialect).
The Hang is distinguished by:
- A structure made of two steel shells glued together, forming a sound cavity.
- Precise tuning to a specific musical scale.
- A central note (ding) surrounded by several secondary notes.
The Hang quickly became popular, but PANArt chose to limit its production and sell its instruments only to carefully selected buyers. This rarity has increased interest in this mysterious instrument.
What if you discovered my guide “How to Choose My First Handpan”?
3. From Exclusivity to Global Success: The Evolution of the Handpan
In the face of growing demand and limited production of PANArt, other craftsmen began to make similar instruments. However, PANArt refused to allow the term “Hang” to be used by other manufacturers, which led to the creation of the generic name “Handpan” to refer to this type of instrument.
In the 2010s, the handpan market opened up with the appearance of many manufacturers around the world. Brands such as Metal Sounds, Meinl or Ayasa have democratized the instrument by making it more accessible.
4. The Handpan Today: A Popular and Accessible Instrument
The handpan is now much more than just a musical instrument: it has become a tool for well-being. Its soothing vibrations are used in:
- Music therapy, to calm anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Yoga and meditation, where he accompanies the sessions by creating a harmonious atmosphere.
- Concerts and street performances, where he captivates the audience with his unique visual and sound aspect.
Today, handpans are available in a wide range of prices and styles. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, there is an instrument adapted to your level and your desires.
Your free eBooK “Everything you need to know about the Handpan”
5. How to Choose Your First Handpan?
If this story has made you want to discover the handpan, it is important to choose your instrument carefully. Here are some tips:
✅ Opt for a simple range like the D Kurd, perfect for beginners.
✅ Choose a quality instrument, made by recognized craftsmen.
✅ Avoid handpans that are too cheap, which may be mismatched.
👉 To help you make the right choice, discover our complete guide: Which handpan to choose to start?
Conclusion: An Instrument with a Rich and Inspiring History
The handpan is a recent instrument, but it is part of an ancient musical tradition. From its origins in Switzerland to its international success, it has evolved to reach a wide audience, attracted by its bewitching sound and ease of learning.
If you want to explore this world too, it’s time to take the plunge! 🎶✨
👉 Discover our selection of handpans for beginners on our shop: Bapst Handpan
Do you have any questions about the history of the handpan or about choosing your first instrument? Ask me, I’ll be happy to talk to you! 😊
Charles Bapst is a creative and passionate entrepreneur, behind projects like Bapst Handpan, Le Monde d’Isis (well-being), and Bapst Technologies (SEO & Technology). Despite pigmentary retinopathy, he transforms each challenge into an opportunity, building a universe aligned with his passions and convictions.
Guided by intuition and harmony, he invites you to follow his credo: “Do what you love ❤️.”
Follow Charles:
Hey, I’m Charles Bapst. I created a comparison of Handpans for beginners, do you want to see it?
Charles Bapst is the founder of Bapst Handpan, Le Monde d’Isis and Bapst Technologies. Why is he involved in so many projects? Following the diagnosis of retinopathy pigmentosa, Charles chose to transform this ordeal into a driving force. He decided to adapt his work environment to focus only on subjects that fascinate him and that make him tick.
Among his inspirations, he likes to recall that:
“Intuition is a driving force for the future.”
And he encourages everyone with this philosophy:
“Do what you love ❤️”.
My Handpan store:
- Artisanal quality, for a durable and ethical instrument, perfectly tuned.
- Enchanting sounds and ease of use, perfect for meditation or musical exploration.
- Ideal for beginner, with intuitive handling and resources to get you started.
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