THE MYSTERIOUS INSTRUMENT: THE HANDPAN
The handpan is an instrument that exerts a unique fascination again and again. The handpan is also known as a UFO or turtle or as a wok. If you are new to the handpan, you can learn more about this fascinating instrument, the handpan, here.
At first glance, the handpan seems almost extraterrestrial due to its unique shape and extraordinary sound. In fact, its appearance is reminiscent of a UFO, and the unusual drum produces sounds unfamiliar with any other instrument.
THE ORIGIN OF THE NAME "HANDPAN"
The term handpan was originally coined by Kyle Cox in 2007. Cox, the founder of the company "Pantheon Steel", was the second handpan manufacturer ever. The name caught on quickly and is now used as a generic term for this type of instrument, an alternative term being the Pantam.
HOW IS THE INSTRUMENT CORRECTLY NAMED?
The correct term for the instrument is "handpan". However, the brand name "Hang®" is often mistakenly used as a generic term for handpans, even though this name is legally protected. The manufacturer of the Hang® expressly rejects the designation of its instruments as handpans.
Handpans are also sometimes confused with steel tongue drums, although there are distinct differences between the two instruments. Both are made of metal and make sounds by hitting them with their hands, but their shape and sound qualities are different.
Here you can learn more about the history of handpans.
IN SUMMARY: SO WHAT IS A HANDPAN?
The handpan can be described as a metal percussion instrument that is made to sound by gently hitting it with your hands or other soft implements. A handpan usually consists of two metal half-shells joined together, one of which has a hole in it.
The standard Opsilon handpan model has 9 tones. The shape is correctly called lenticular. Due to the tone fields and the procurement, the handpan evokes many associations with other well-known forms from the animal world or with the otherworldly.
The handpan is a fascinating and relatively new musical instrument that has fascinated musicians and music lovers around the world since its introduction in the early 21st century. With its unique timbre and ability to play different styles of music, the handpan offers an exciting musical experience that is accessible to both novice and experienced musicians.
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