Concert Handpan

Discover the Swiss ingenuity behind the handpan

The handpan traces its origins to the PANArt Hangbau AG workshop in Bern, where, in 2000, Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer unveiled the Hang, the direct ancestor of today’s instrument. This creation grew out of a 1999 meeting with Reto Weber, a percussionist passionate about the ghatam, a South Indian clay pot drum. The duo used a nitrided steel alloy called Pang, enriched with nitrogen to modify its mechanical properties and produce rich harmonics. Presented at the Musikmesse in Frankfurt in 2001, the first-generation Hang had eight notes arranged in a circle around the central “ding” and was available in 45 sound models (Ake Bono, Hijaz, Pygmée, Melog, Zhi Diao). Around 5,000 units were manufactured and sold through a select few distributors. Buying one often meant sending a handwritten letter and waiting for months. After production ended in 2013, PANArt focused on the Gubal and HangBal, while other makers such as Kyle Cox (Pantheon Steel) and Victor Levinson (SPB) launched their own handpans. Purchase your handpan today and experience this authentic sound adventure.

Immerse yourself in the intimate sounds of the handpan now

The handpan is known for producing intimate, subtle, captivating, and highly poetic sounds—perfect for creating unique musical atmospheres. A true 21st-century instrument, it consists of two steel shells fixed together and hand-tuned by artisans, resulting in a one-of-a-kind sonic character. The central note, called the “ding,” is surrounded by seven or eight dimples, each generating a distinct, harmonious tone. This design allows aspiring musicians, even complete beginners, to follow their intuition and spontaneously improvise beautiful melodies. The handpan fits perfectly into sophrology, meditation, or music therapy practices, where its soothing vibrations support relaxation and focus. It’s also used in concerts and collaborative sound projects, offering virtually limitless artistic freedom. PANArt instruments are sought after for their rich, deep tone, while independent makers offer a wide variety of finishes and original scales. Each model is unique, reflecting rare know-how and a hands-on process that can take several days. The sounds you’ll discover feel endless, with a soundscape that’s always renewing itself. Make your purchase today and feel the resonance of this fascinating instrument.

Immerse yourself in the magical sound of the handpan and relax immediately

The handpan, an idiophone created in Switzerland in 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, draws inspiration from the gong, the Indian ghatam, and the alpine bell to offer enveloping vibrations ideal for meditation and relaxation. Its convex shape projects sound waves in all directions, creating an immersive experience, whether played live in a specialized center or enjoyed through recordings at home. Each note, tuned to 1:2:3—fundamental tone, harmonic octave, and composite fifth—forms the basis of building mental resilience through handpan vibrations, acting directly on the brain and encouraging a flow state as well as muscle relaxation. Music therapy practitioners particularly appreciate the phenomenon of “entrainment,” where the body naturally syncs with the vibrations of the handpan, helping release tension and stress. Contrary to myths perpetuated by some merchants, this instrument was never played by Shaolin monks centuries ago, and its initial production under the name Hang was discontinued in 2014 to limit its distribution. Today, artisans such as those collaborating with Instruments du Monde hammer each note by hand, guaranteeing a unique instrument that is both robust and delicate. Treat yourself to this enriching sound journey and order your handpan today.

Take your handpan to the Balbuzard estate and beyond

When you carry your lightweight, compact handpan, you open the door to memorable events such as the HANGAOUT organized in Condat-en-Combraille at the Domaine du Balbuzard. Created in June 2020 after only three months of preparation by Klaïm, this pay-what-you-want festival supports artists and technicians fairly. During the inaugural edition, a rainbow appeared above the stages, symbolizing unity, while musicians such as Waagal, Alem, and Joséphine Pia Wild offered improvised concerts. Thanks to its portability, your handpan can also accompany you to didgeridoo and jaw harp workshops, or yoga and Thai massage sessions offered by Univers des 7 Chakras. A raffle offers three handpans to be won to support emerging creativity, while the young talent springboard, judged by Klaïm, Kelu, and David Charrier, offers new musicians the chance to perform in front of an enthusiastic audience. Pay-what-you-want festival, profits shared with the artists: this unique philosophy strengthens collective creativity and a true spirit of sharing. Treat yourself to a handpan today and join this supportive musical adventure.

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 shipping: If you live in the U.S., shipping is free.

Shipping time: ships within 48 business hours.

Delivery time: Orders are delivered within 3 to 14 business days in the U.S. Delivery may take up to 30 days for other countries.