9-note handpan

Explore the surprising origins of the handpan

For the handpan, which was actually called the Hang at the time, it all began in the late 1990s when two employees of the Swiss company PANArt, Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, set out to design a brand new musical instrument in the shape of a metal contact lens. To this end, they drew inspiration from the Indian ghatam and the Caribbean steel drum—two traditional instruments that the handpan, in a sense, brings together. The goal was to craft an instrument that could be played with the hands, like the ghatam, but would be far more durable, since that instrument is made of terracotta—hence the choice of metal for the handpan. After several years of testing, the PANArt team settled on the most optimal shape and material. Now an essential instrument of the 21st century, be part of this beautiful story by purchasing your own handpan.

Learn to play the handpan, even without any musical experience

Unlike the piano, guitar, or violin, which require years of practice and hundreds of hours of music theory just to read sheet music, the handpan asks far less of you. In fact, it’s a relaxation instrument by nature: it was designed to be played instinctively, without having to follow tablature or sheet music to the letter. For beginner percussionists who have never studied music theory, the handpan is a perfect opportunity to start making music. With just a few strikes, you’ll be able to improvise pieces and melodies with surprising ease. The smaller number of notes is also a major advantage, because it’s much easier to remember them than on a piano with dozens of keys. Choose the handpan to immerse yourself in an enriching musical experience and order your instrument now.

Enter a state of meditation with the handpan

It’s no secret that music and sound are perfect for bringing relaxation and calm to those who listen. The handpan can produce wonderfully soft tones, mainly thanks to its material and unique shape. It’s no surprise that meditation practitioners use it to help students stay in a contemplative state simply by listening to the sounds created when the metal shells are struck. Many music therapists also use the handpan to encourage a deep sense of relaxation in the people they work with. Enjoy its benefits and buy a handpan to transform your downtime.

Take the handpan with you everywhere for moments of unprecedented creativity

When you take a closer look at the world of music, very few instruments let you play wherever you want with virtually no constraints. The handpan is one of those musical instruments that gives you real freedom in how you use it. Put it in its case and take it with you on any trip, whether it’s to a familiar spot a few minutes from home or a mysterious destination several days’ drive away. All you have to do is place it on your lap and play to your heart’s content wherever you are. You’ll never need electricity or complicated logistics to compose for yourself or your audience. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this vibrant community—get your handpan today and awaken the artist in you.

Conformity guarantee: When you order from the French company Instruments du Monde, you’re covered by a 2-year statutory warranty on all our products.

Returns & exchanges: Not happy with your order? Not sure this product is right for you? We’ve thought of everything. Returns are accepted for 30 days after delivery, no questions asked. Shop with confidence.

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

Dispatch time: 48 business hours.

Delivery time: Orders are delivered to France, Belgium, Switzerland, and EU member countries within 3 to 14 business days. For other countries, delivery can take up to 30 days.