Combine ease and harmony with an Oxalis-tuned handpan
The name “Oxalis” refers to a genus of plants that includes the famous four-leaf clover, a symbol of luck and hope—perfect inspiration for this handpan scale. Technically, it’s a major pentatonic scale, meaning the percussion instrument features just 5 different notes, carefully selected and spread across several octaves. As a result, the notes blend beautifully when played one after another, making it an especially popular choice for improvisation. Sonically, an Oxalis handpan is sometimes described as a “sunny” scale, as it often evokes joy, positivity, and brightness in listeners. Enjoy the warmth of this scale and fall in love with this Oxalis-tuned handpan.
Lean into improvisation with a pentatonic model and let yourself be tempted by this Oxalis scale handpan!
Free accessories:
- A 290-page book with 25 pieces of sheet music and a 16-video course taught by a handpan instructor
- A padded carrying case
- A protective natural jute braid
- A tripod stand
- A pair of drumsticks
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A cleaning cloth
Technical specifications of the Oxalis handpan
- Instrument family: percussion – idiophone
- Number of notes: 9
- Key: E or G Oxalis
- Frequency: 440 or 432 hertz
- Diameter: 55 cm
- Height: 25 cm
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Material: 1.2 mm thick stainless steel
- Weight: 4 kg
Halfway between bright and introspective is the Jibuk-scale handpan. This scale was entirely invented by the makers and builders of this percussion instrument, but it draws inspiration from the Mixolydian mode. The Jibuk scale is a great fit for handpan players who enjoy improvisation, meditation, and creating warm, expressive melodies.
Progress with David Charrier: a clear framework to enrich your playing
A renowned teacher in the handpan community, David Charrier has been teaching for over a decade with a structured, supportive approach. His classes, both online and in person, are organised by level and goal: solidifying the basics, expanding your rhythmic vocabulary, then approaching composition and improvisation with a clear method. With him, you’ll refine precision of movement (attack, rebound, touch control), hand independence, and musical breathing. Sessions introduce progressive rhythmic patterns, articulation (muted notes, accents, dynamics), and motifs that help you build clear forms for improvising and composing. Choose a path that matches your level, practise regularly with short, targeted sessions, then put what you’ve learned to work in moments of free exploration.
Experience the Vivaan festival and its unique vibrant Indo-international fusion
Vivaan, India’s first festival dedicated to the handpan, is usually held in February at the Shoonya Farm Retreat near Belgaum. Conceived by Dipak Thakkar, a self-taught musician who plays the banjo, handpan, and keyboard, this event is inspired by his experiences at the European gatherings Griasdi and HONA and continues his festival work, launched in 2017 through the Handpan India Community. The programme brings together Indian virtuosos and international artists: Pt. Ronu Majumdar (flute), Aditya Kalyanpur (tabla), Yves Mesnil (vocals, guitar, and jaw harp), Carola Ortiz (clarinet and vocals), Quentin Kayser and Jeremy Nattagh (handpans), Martin Dubois (African kora, percussion, and overtone singing), and Tatsunori Hara (Japan). Workshops on raga, body percussion, and instrument making take place during the day, alongside kundalini yoga sessions and opportunities to explore local heritage. A fusion of handpan and Indian classical music for a sensory awakening, Vivaan celebrates the meeting of cultures and the handpan’s portability, which makes it easy to build sonic bridges between continents. Get your handpan and join this spiritual and musical adventure.
Understand the classification and modern idiophonic lineage of the handpan
Although often called a “drum,” the handpan is actually classified as an idiophone under the Hornbostel–Sachs system. Unlike membranophones, which rely on a stretched skin to vibrate, idiophones produce sound through the resonance of the entire instrument. The Hang and its descendants are classified under index 111.24, which refers to percussion vessels. Their lens shape and the use of the gu bring them closer to Helmholtz resonators such as the ghatam and the udu. This classification confirms their different origin from djembes or congas, which rely on membranes. Despite this classification, many players borrow techniques from tablas or frame drums to enrich their playing, bridging the gap between idiophonic and membranophone percussion. By embracing this dual heritage, the handpan reflects a cultural and acoustic evolution. Learn about these nuances to fully appreciate this instrument and order your own handpan to explore its sonic diversity.
Master the sound nuances of your handcrafted handpan
The handpan not only offers a unique timbre, it also lets you shape the sound through your touch. Designed in 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabrina Schärer, this nitrided steel instrument is played directly with the hands, without sticks or picks. Experienced musicians know that the part of the hand used—fingertips, palm, or knuckles—and the precise contact point on the dimple affect acoustic impedance, influencing both pitch and sustain. A strike in the centre creates a deep, sustained tone, while a light touch near the edge delivers a crystalline resonance. This sensitivity lets you explore a wide range of emotions, from sensuality to joy. In workshops, music therapists teach these techniques to expand the sound palette and tailor each session to the participant’s needs. Learn to play with finesse and discover how each gesture can transform your experience. Take advantage of this palette of nuances and sensations—order your handcrafted handpan today and explore all its possibilities.
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.
