Travel Handpan

Learn how the handpan is becoming more popular in music schools

In recent years, several conservatories and music schools have added the handpan to their teaching programs. Prestigious institutions in Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse now offer introductory modules for this 21st-century instrument. These schools have embraced it in response to the growing enthusiasm it has sparked over the past few years. In this setting, handpan instructors typically rely on visual, graphic notation created specifically to make learning this percussion instrument easier. These “scores” are often inspired by resources shared for free online by passionate players and widely praised for how intuitive they are. That said, music theory classes are often taught alongside them, creating a hybrid approach that blends improvisation with more traditional sheet music or fixed tablature. Choose one of our handpans with confidence, knowing you can be supported by a teacher as you get to grips with this truly extraordinary instrument.

Choose the right name for this unique instrument

The question of the handpan’s name reflects its complex history: created under the name “Hang” by PANArt, that term was protected and often discouraged for instruments made by other manufacturers. As early as 2007, Kyle Cox of Pantheon Steel introduced the term handpan to refer to these generic instruments while respecting the brand. At the same time, an Israeli distributor used “Pantam,” a blend of pan and ghatam, a term popularized in 2014 by Victor Levinson for his SPB. Bellart, led by Luis Martin Eguiguren Garrido, and Spacedrum, created by Philippe Maignaut, also adopted these names. Some even called the instrument a “UFO Drum” because of its futuristic shape. Google Trends shows that “Hang Drum” dominated until 2017, before “Handpan” reached similar popularity, while “Pantam” spiked in 2018 in connection with the “Pantam Stand.” In 2020, facing disputes initiated by PANArt and actions against Ayasa in the Netherlands, the international community founded Handpan Community United (HCU) to defend artisans. Alongside the law firm Bird & Bird, HCU launched a crowdfunding campaign in October 2020 to fund legal protection and support the growth of this art form. Order your handpan today and become part of this musical adventure.

Take your handpan to the fantastic castle of Frasne-le-Château

The Castle Handpan Festival is the first medieval fantasy event dedicated to the handpan in France. Wheelchair accessible, it offers family-friendly activities: trollball, escape games, face painting, storytelling for kids ages 3 and up, music workshops, and sword dancing. Tickets are $25 for adults, $8 for those under 18, and free for children under 10. Artisans host a medieval market featuring jewelry, clothing, and tank drums. The program also includes introductory workshops in aerial silks, dragon dancing, and fire shows for total immersion. A raffle offers a chance to win two handpans and more than 30 other prizes, while a medieval escape game sparks the imagination. Storytelling for children and a best-costume contest will delight kids and adults alike. With accessible entry and family-friendly pricing, the atmosphere stays welcoming for everyone. Compact and lightweight, your handpan is the ideal instrument to share your passion in this fascinating setting. Buy your handpan and join this timeless musical adventure.

Explore the sound benefits of the handpan for your well-being

Used in religious ceremonies and rituals around the world, from Christian choirs to Iroquois rain dances, the handpan is part of a long tradition of “audio healing.” Designed in Switzerland in 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, this percussion instrument echoes the softness of lullabies and the soothing sounds of waves or wind through leaves. While infrasound—frequencies so low they’re inaudible to the human ear—can cause discomfort and fear, the handpan’s frequencies are calibrated to encourage inner calm. Each note is based on a 1:2:3 ratio, combining a fundamental tone, an octave, and a fifth to promote a deep and lasting relaxation experience. Music lovers, from beginners to music therapists, appreciate its ability to soothe brain waves and its accessibility without requiring advanced musical training. Whether you prefer the calm of a Hindu celebration, a Maasai ritual, or the gentle energy of a handpan session, even heavy metal fans recognize its relaxing power. Today, you can purchase a handcrafted handpan through Instruments du Monde, with personalized support to help you choose the tuning that best fits your style. Treat yourself to a haven of tranquility and order your own 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 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.