Have you been to a handpan (also known as a hang drum) concert? Perhaps you saw it in a video on Youtube? Ever since, you've been dreaming of buying one of these marvellous instruments, with their bewitching sound. We know the feeling, because we've all been there, makers and musicians alike.
But how do you learn to play this incredible instrument once you've acquired it? That's the question we're going to answer here.
Read: How is the handpan made?
1. Learn to play the Handpan online
A newcomer to the percussion family, the Handpan is making a discreet place for itself in concert halls. So you can't yet learn to play it in a music school. That's why there are websites where you can learn to play the Handpan.
Here are the ones the community talks about most often:
Each of these sites has its own specific features. Some are free, others charge, but all are very good for learning to play the Handpan.
2. Learn to play the Handpan with Superprof
Superprof is a platform that brings together teachers and students in all fields. You can learn maths, Chinese or music with the hand pan.
Its great advantage is that it puts you in touch with teachers near you. This opens up the possibility of learning to play the handpan, not through a screen, but directly in private lessons with a teacher.
Prices for private lessons range from £15 to £45 per hour.
3. Master the Handpan with Master the Handpan
It's a 100% online solution that lets you learn to play the handpan through tutorials ranging from beginner to advanced.
One of the great advantages of this site is that you can progress at your own pace, since you have lifelong access to the training available to you.
The price of each course is £149.
4. Learn the Handpan with Handpan Dojo
Another website praised by the community of Handpan learners, Handpan Dojo works on the same principle as Master the Handpan.
Not only will you have access to the site for life, you'll also be able to access it from any device.
Course prices range from £89 to £400.
5. Learn to play the Handpan with Youtube
The last solution is 100% free Youtube. A number of channels have sprung up as the Handpan has become more widely available, and some of them are dedicated to teaching the Handpan with video tutorials.
Here's a sample video to get you started
You'll also find some of the people who offer paid courses on the above-mentioned platforms, such as David Charrier, from Master the Handpan.
Youtube can therefore be a good place to start learning and getting to know certain teachers before you decide to invest in Handpan lessons.
There are many others, including David Urban, Amy Naylor and Gerard Spencer. Make your choice based on their artistic qualities and the quality of their teaching.
6. Comparison of Handpan learning platforms: Options, Levels and Prices
| Platform | Type | Target | Access | Specificity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Superprof | Online / Physics | Beginners to experts | Private lessons | Private lessons near you | £15 - £45 / hour |
| Master the Handpan | 100% Online | Beginners to advanced | Lifetime access | Progress at your own pace | £149 per course |
| Handpan Dojo | 100% Online | All levels | Lifetime access | Multi-device access | £89 - £400 |
| Youtube | 100% Online | All levels | Free | Wide range of free tutorials | Free |
Ready to rock? Explore our collection of unique handpans and find the perfect instrument to facilitate your learning and then your musical journey.
7. Zenapan blog: Your guide to the Handpan
ZenaPan.co.uk stands out as a must-read blog, a veritable treasure trove of advice and tips dedicated to learning to play the hang drum. From beginner to expert, find the guidance and resources you need to :
- Mastering the basics
Understand the fundamentals of the steel hang drum, from selecting your first instrument (new or second-hand handpan) to understanding the notes and scales (hang scale).
- Advanced techniques
Specialist articles to help you perfect your technique and explore more complex compositions (440 hertz handpan).
- Wellbeing and music
Discover how the handpan can become a tool for well-being, with advice on relaxation (handpan 432 hertz).
Zenapan is your ally for a deep immersion in the world of the handpan, offering a holistic approach for all levels.
Things to remember
Learning to play the handpan, that bewitching percussion instrument, is accessible via a variety of platforms suitable for everyone, from beginners to experienced musicians. Whether you opt for personal lessons on Superprof, structured online courses via Master the Handpan and Handpan Dojo, or free access to a plethora of tutorials on YouTube, each option offers a unique approach to diving into the world of the hang drum.
Exploring these resources allows you to navigate between well-being and musical creation, whether for relaxation in 432 hertz or composition in 440 hertz.
FAQs
1. What are the essential steps to start learning the handpan?
Starting with basic techniques like finger placement and hand positioning, beginners can build foundational skills for playing the handpan.
2. Can someone learn to play the handpan without prior musical experience?
Yes, beginners can learn the handpan independently or with guidance, focusing on rhythm, scales, and simple melodies to develop their playing skills.
3. How challenging is it to master the handpan?
Learning the handpan involves mastering hand coordination and understanding musical scales, requiring patience and regular practice to achieve proficiency.
4. What are effective practice techniques for learning the handpan?
Effective practice includes scales, rhythm exercises, and learning songs progressively, enhancing technique and musical expression over time.
5. How long does it typically take to become proficient in playing the handpan?
Proficiency varies, but consistent practice over several months can lead to mastering basic techniques and playing melodies confidently.
6. Where can beginners find resources and support for learning the handpan?
Online tutorials, workshops, and local handpan communities offer valuable resources and guidance for beginners looking to learn and improve their handpan playing skills.