handpans

The handpan is a musical instrument that belongs to the idiophone family, which means it produces sound through the vibration of the instrument itself. It is often classified as a steel drum or hang drum, and it is known for its unique, melodic, and soothing tones. The handpan was developed in the early 2000s by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer of the Swiss company PANArt.

The instrument is typically made from two concave steel dishes that are joined together at the rim, forming a spherical shape. The top dish, or "ding" side, features a center note and several tone fields arranged in a circle around it. The bottom dish, or "gu" side, is often left untuned or tuned to a low bass note. The handpan is played by striking the tone fields with the hands or fingers, producing a range of notes and harmonics.

Handpans are tuned to specific scales or modes, which can vary depending on the manufacturer and the player's preference. The instrument's compact size and portability make it popular among street performers, buskers, and musicians who enjoy playing in various settings. The handpan's distinctive sound has gained popularity in contemporary music, meditation, and sound healing practices.

The handpan's construction involves a complex process of hammering, tuning, and heat treatment to achieve the desired acoustic properties. As a result, handpans can be quite expensive, with prices varying depending on the size, scale, and craftsmanship. Despite their cost, handpans have gained a dedicated following among musicians and enthusiasts worldwide.