Hang Drum Beginner Guide | Unlock Your Musical Journey 2024

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of the hang drum, sometimes known as the handpan. This unique musical instrument has recently gained a devoted following among artists, sound healers, and seekers of peaceful, meditative experiences.

In this hang drum beginner‘s guide, we’ll look at the history of this fascinating instrument, the physics behind its distinct tones, and the joy of learning to play it. Whether you’re just getting started in music or have some experience, this article will give you the information and inspiration to begin your hang drum adventure.

What Is A Hang Drum?

The word hang drum originated as a misnomer for a musical instrument or “sound sculpture” known as a Hang. Currently, hang drum is also misused as a synonym for handpan.

What Is “Hang Drum Scales”?

Each handpan scale has its unique effect. Even two scales in the same key can produce a distinct vibe when played and open up new possibilities. This is because each note produces its effect.

As shown in the illustrations, the “Celtic” tuning, unlike the “Kurd” tuning, does not include the Bb on the second tone field, causing all tones to slip down one level. The result is mirrored hand pans, beginning with the lower C.

Many handpan makers create new names for previously named scales, resulting in a confusing maze of words.

Most hand pans are diatonically tuned. Diatonic signifies that, unlike chromaticism (on the piano, all white and black keys), there is just one unique tone range. You can only play D minor on a handpan with at least 8 tonal regions.

The complicated portion begins with the various scales. For example, there is a D minor scale and other key variations. The intervals on the Handpan are modified. The example below shows that both scales begin on the ring’s fourth (A) letter. The “Kurd” scale behaves well over all of the natural note jumps of the D minor scale, but the “Celtic” scale omits the sixth, the “Bb.”

How Do I Choose The Proper Handpan Material?

There are four different types of handpan materials, each with unique benefits.

Raw steel Handpan

• Pros: Untreated, making it the most cost-effective option.
• Cons: Rusts easily; thus, it requires the most care and maintenance. It is not the best option for people who live in humid climates or near the coast. Also prone to stability/tuning issues over time.

Steel-coated Handpan

• Pros: They weigh less than others, making them easy to handle and transport. They are also cost-effective.
• Cons: Rust-prone if the surface is damaged. In general, there is a lack of responsiveness and dynamic range. Nitrided steel’ handpan (the original Hang®’s material and the most popular choice today).
• Pros: Treated for rust resistance. Less sustain is beneficial for percussion musicians.
• Cons: They still require maintenance and rust protection treatment. Not the ideal option for individuals who play slowly or melodically.

‘Stainless Steel’ Handpan

• Pros: Exceptionally rust resistant (even surface damage), requiring little or no maintenance. They have the most extended sustain, which is ideal for melodic, slower players.
• Cons: It is more challenging to work with, so quality and stability may vary depending on the manufacturer. It is generally more expensive to purchase. The long sustain makes it an unsuitable choice for quick, percussive musicians.

Ember steel Handpan

• Ember steel is a form of stainless steel.

Ultimately, everything comes down to personal preference. The optimum material for you is determined by your playing style (slower/melodic or faster/percussive), the environment in which you reside, and your willingness to devote time to maintenance and care.

There is currently substantial debate in the community over the advantages of stainless steel over nitrided steel, with strong supporters on both sides.

How To Play Hang Drum Beginner?

• Holding the handpan: Sit with your legs crossed and the handpan resting on your thighs.
• Striking the notes: Instead of using the tips of your fingers, hit the notes on the handpan with the pads. This will provide a warmer, more rounded tone. Keep a soft and relaxed touch when striking the notes, and avoid hitting them too hard.
• Playing the rim: The rim of the handpan can be played with either the fingers or the knuckles to produce various sounds. Experiment with multiple ways to find the one that best suits you.
• Mute technique: After striking a note, lightly press your finger on it to make a muffled sound. This can be used to produce a more percussive sound or to alter the pitch of a note.
• Damping technique: To silence a note, place your finger on it soon after striking it. This approach can achieve a staccato effect or alter a piece’s pace.
• Playing with dynamics: Try playing notes softly and loudly to generate distinct dynamics in your song. This can help you play more expressively and emotionally.
• Experimentation: Don’t be scared to try different ways and sounds on the handpan. The more you play and experiment, the more you will comprehend the instrument’s potential and improve your performance.

How Much Do Handpans Cost?

Handpans are not particularly expensive for a handmade instrument, but they are far from inexpensive. 90% of handpans cost between $1,500 and $3,000 USD. The main issue, however, is that the instrument is in such high demand that some regard it as a business opportunity.

That is why you will find manufacturers offering instruments at exorbitant prices compared to the quality they provide and people reselling instruments for considerably more than they paid for them originally.

In other words, quality does not necessarily match the price. As a result, you will discover excellent instruments for USD 1,500 and others of inferior quality for USD 3,000 or more.

Are You Ready To Learn Handpan Instrument?

With Navasaz Academy, you may unleash your inner rhythm! Discover the exciting world of handpan for beginners–friendly workshops guided by experts.

Dive into the lovely tunes of the handpan and go on an unforgettable musical adventure. Join today and let the power of music change your life. Begin your hang drum lessons today!