Discover the Magic Powers of the Handpan!
Four years ago, my musical journey took a mesmerizing turn when I discovered the handpan. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of over 200 gigs annually, and my collection has grown to 15 beautifully crafted instruments. As I delve into composing for my first CD, I’m thrilled to announce my new website, expanding my teaching repertoire to include handpan lessons.
The handpan has been a gateway for me to blend music with the healing arts. I’ve had the privilege of playing through the Cincinnati Arts Association’s Healing Arts Program and offering soothing sounds in yoga classes for Self-Care Providers Chair Yoga.
The Building of a Handpan
Crafting a handpan is an intricate process, involving numerous steps and a great deal of labor. The wait for a custom instrument can span 3-6 months, a testament to the demand and craftsmanship involved.
My collection predominantly features handpans in lower keys like E2, F2, F#2, G2, A2, and B2. These keys, though labor-intensive to create, produce deep, resonant tones ideal for healing and meditation music.
Handpan Makers
I’m excited to share the work of my favorite handpan makers, each of whom has contributed to my collection. Over the next few months, I’ll highlight each handpan, showcasing their unique qualities.
Subtle Sounds Handpans in Petersburg, Germany, crafted by Fabian, includes an F#2 Pygmy and a B2 Celtic in my collection. These blend harmoniously with three original handpans, D Major, C# Celtic, and E SaByeD, by Colin Foulke, of Xenith Handpans.
Zephyr Handpans in Southampton, United Kingdom, created an F2 Major/Minor handpan that I found while waiting for Fabian’s creations. I’ve since added an E2 Natural Minor and a Low C Minor from them.
Aukin, based in Argentina, has made several unique handpans for me, including a B2 Mystic and a G2 Minor. Their instruments have a distinctive charm that inspires creativity.
Satay Sound Sculptures in Brazil recently sent me an A2 Aegean and a custom A2 La Serina, the latter featuring an expansive scale with seven notes on the bottom.
Lastly, Meridian Handpans in the UK crafted my first D Kurd stainless steel handpan. Known for their crisp high notes and rich tones, Meridian was a discovery through my handpan teacher, Amy Naylor.
I invite you to explore these makers and listen to the handpans they’ve built. Music is a gift, both for those who play and those who listen. Here’s to a year filled with joy and beautiful music!
Blessings! k
