Handpan Design

Discover how the ghatam influenced the creation of the handpan

A percussion instrument made entirely of terracotta, the ghatam is actually a pot or jar roughly 60 cm (24 in) in diameter that the musician strikes with their hands to produce sound. It is a traditional instrument in India, as well as in several other Asian countries. In 1999, Reto Weber, a percussionist who played the ghatam, suggested the following idea to Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, two Swiss artists from the PANArt company: to create a new instrument similar to the ghatam, but made of metal instead of clay. This would make the instrument tougher while also opening the door to new sounds. Finding the idea intriguing, the Swiss couple spent nearly a year developing the Hang, the direct ancestor of today’s handpan. Treat yourself to a handpan and enjoy its unique sound qualities.

Experience intuitive music with the handpan

What’s one of the best reasons to play the handpan? Definitely its intuitive nature. This musical instrument isn’t meant to be like a piano or a guitar, where you spend dozens or hundreds of hours reading page after page of sheet music. With the handpan, the notes laid out on the instrument form a scale that lets you create melodies naturally and with ease. That means any player, whether or not they’ve studied music theory, can quickly start playing on their handpan. In this way, you can express your emotions and feelings through your instrument in a completely intuitive manner. Order your handpan today and give free rein to your musical creativity.

Relax with the handpan

If Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, the creators of the Hang in the early 2000s, had been told their instrument would literally revolutionize the world of wellness, it’s not certain they would have believed it. And yet, that is exactly what is happening. For several years now, the handpan has grown in popularity, and what was once a niche instrument is becoming a familiar presence among percussionists. As a result, many people have discovered the unique character of the harmonic vibrations that flow from this flying-saucer-shaped instrument. Won over by the softness of these tones, sound-therapy practitioners, including music therapists, have started using the handpan to offer moments of well-being to their patients. Experience ultimate relaxation with the handpan and bring this unique instrument into your daily life to enhance your well-being.

Explore new musical horizons with the handpan, the portable instrument

When it was designed, the handpan was conceived not only for its acoustic performance, but also to be as portable as possible for the musician. Its weight of around 4 kg (8 lb 13 oz) and its relatively compact 55 cm (22 in) diameter make it easy to bring to all kinds of outdoor events, such as festivals and musical gatherings. That way, if you’re planning to play with other handpan percussionists, you can do it in the blink of an eye. Simply place your instrument in its case and take it with you to the Castle Handpan Festival or the Pangonia Handpan Festival, for example. You’ll enjoy a group experience that feels radically different from playing solo. Purchase this magnificent instrument and let yourself be carried away by its unique sound world.

Legal warranty: When you order from the French company Instruments du Monde, you’re covered by a 2-year legal warranty on all our items.

Returns and exchanges: Not satisfied with your order? Not sure this product is right for you? We've thought of everything! Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery, and you don't need to provide a reason. Shop with peace of mind.

Free shipping: If you live in mainland France, Belgium, or Switzerland, shipping is free.

Processing time: 48 business hours.

Delivery time: Orders are delivered to France, Belgium, Switzerland, and European Union member countries within 3–14 business days. This timeframe may be extended to 30 days for other countries.