Handpan Annaziska

Relive the legacy of Ellie Mannette, father of the steelpan

The handpan comes from the same lineage as the first steelpans created in 1944 in Trinidad by Ellie Mannette, who was just 16 at the time. In the panyards of Port of Spain, Mannette shaped notes by ear on oil drums, laying the foundations for the 1:2:3 harmonic ratio. A photo of the Oval Boys shows him at work, hammering out notes in mosquito-infested swamps. His innovations led to the introduction of "shoulder tones" and directly inspired Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer in Bern in 2000. Mark Garner interviewed him in 2012, sharing his methods with the public via YouTube. Mannette passed away on 29 August 2018, at age 90, but his approach to tuning still shapes every modern handpan. This legacy, from the terracotta of the ghatam to repurposed oil barrels, is part of what gives today’s instruments their unmistakable richness. Order a handpan to carry on this tradition of excellence.

Discover the eco-friendly magic of the Handpan Festival in Mèze

Each June, the Handpan Festival in Mèze, held at the Domaine de Farlet, puts sustainability front and centre with a curated selection of short-supply-chain food trucks and the use of reusable eco-cups at the refreshment stand. A craft market with more than 50 exhibitors offered instruments, clothing, and jewellery, while performances by graffiti artists, street theatre, storytellers, and jugglers kept the day lively. The traditional Holi Powder, a highlight of the event, coloured the afternoons with vibrant pigments. Permaculture, sophrology, and sound journey workshops, led by 20 practitioners connected to the world of the 7 chakras, offered moments to reset and recharge. Dry toilets and waste sorting showcased the event’s long-term commitment. Lightweight and easy to carry, your handpan fits right into these activities, letting you join in on spontaneous jams anytime. Experience this music-filled and eco-conscious celebration in harmony with nature—bring your handpan and join in today.

Discover the educational evolution of the handpan over the last fifteen years

Fifteen years ago, there were no dedicated handpan teaching methods, and teachers could be counted on one hand. Since 2009, growing interest has given rise to books, instructional DVDs, downloadable video lessons, and interactive MOOCs, offering a complete range of learning resources. These formats include progressive exercises, graphic scores, and filmed demonstrations you can access anytime. Specialised platforms now offer modular courses adapted to every level, from beginner to advanced player. The conservatories of Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse have integrated these tools into their programmes, validated by official exams, while distance learning makes it easier than ever to progress independently. This expansion of teaching formats helps players develop posture, rhythmic coordination, and melody building. With these resources, any aspiring musician can structure their learning effectively. Order your handpan today to put these innovative methods into practice.

Immerse yourself in ancestral ceremonies with the handpan now

Religious ceremonies around the world—whether Christian mass, Iroquois rain dances, Maasai rituals, or Hindu festivities—have always relied on music to create a sacred space. The handpan, invented in Switzerland in 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, carries that spirit forward by radiating sound in all directions thanks to its idiophone design made of two welded convex steel shells, creating a uniquely immersive experience. Each note produces a rich chord built on a 1:2:3 frequency ratio (fundamental, octave, and fifth), generating vibrations that can feel grounding for both mind and body. Unlike infrasound from a poorly adjusted fan, which can create discomfort and fuel "haunted house" myths, the handpan’s harmonics can encourage a sense of calm, helping release stress and tension. Beginner-friendly, it requires no music theory or sheet music, and every strike becomes a meditative journey. Play it live in a wellness space or simply listen by video to recreate those sacred moments at home. Order your handpan today.

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

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

Free delivery: if you live in New Zealand, delivery is free.

Dispatch time: dispatches within 48 business hours.

Delivery time: orders are delivered to New Zealand within 3–14 business days. This time frame may be extended to 30 days for other countries.