What is a hang drum?
The Hang Drum, or handpan (as it is also known) has become very popular with listeners from every corner of the globe and for good reason. an inverted sheet metal dome combined with decoration that serves as both decor alongside texture.
PANArt are the visionary creators who originally designed the hang drum to be a sculptural work of art, back in Switzerland. Tipper users realized how much of a musical instrument it is, and soon its unique sound became the ideal tool for ambient music too... although I've heard weird electronic sounds that Tiprip creates finding home in psy rock or experimental worlds as well.
The hang drum is essentially a feat of engineering, and also an art form. The construction of this instrument requires the matching, molding and tuning in a series of key-pitch pairs that form one or several notes on those tones which are harmonically connected to each other (related pitches) origin pitch-fields associated with metal-shell media wherein multiple fields produce "harmonic" tone arrangement when struck by hand-handled beaters.
A brief overview of the hang drum
The hang drum, with its unique properties and mesmerizing sound capacities is one of the most remarkable percussions to stand on its own in a place full of others kind. Among its most impressive aspects is the way it can ring and hold tones which reverberate in such a manner they seem to float around, creating an almost otherworldly feeling.
Distinct Tone Fields: Hangs consists of a bowl shaped area with multiple tone fields located at the surface, each finely tuned to generate one different note or chord. The tone fields are arranged in two circles, enabling the player to produce complex tunes and harmonies by hand-picked combinations of its areas.
One of the ethereal overtones created while playing a hang drum helps to give it its characteristic sound. These overtones are what give the instrument its unique voice and adds depth & complexity.
Playing Methodologies: The Hang drum can be played using special tactics like a handpan steel tongue hard surfaces in this way during playing you strike the tone-flows with palms, fingers along or by specific hammer. Plus, these sounds are all delivering in the roundrobin repetition and through their performances players will be able to add aspects of style (damping/bend/roll) on customize a great deal of tonal variance/expression.
Therapeutic Feel: Speaking from experience, many hang drum aficionados and even healers have commented on how the instrument eases them into a deep spiritual state or trance some which is simply unexplainable for other instruments. It is used in sound healing, music therapy and mindfulness practices as it has calming tones and meditative qualities.
How to play the hang drum
Playing the hang drum is part technique, and of course coordination as it can prove to become quite a musical puzzle akin to solving a Rubik's cube. It is an instrument that could take a lifetime to master, but beginners can still enjoy the thrill of creating mesmerising tunes with little practice.
Positioning and Posture:
Relax for a while and place the hang drum in front of you either on your lap or dedicated stand.
Sit up straight, and make sure that your hands can easily move around the instrument.
Hand Technique:
You should also use the pads of your fingers or palms to strike those tone fields.
Mallets - Some vibration instruments, such as gongs or handpans need to be played with certain types of mallet.
This develops control and accuracy in how you strike the tone fields.
Melodic Patterns:
Get to know the note layout on top of the hang drum.
A postgraduate specialist on the path of a wandering minstrel? Start with simple melodies or scales and work your way up.
Add expression and nuance using techniques like damping.
Improvisation and Creativity:
Let your intuition about what sounds good take control as you play around with the soundscapes of the hang drum.
Play around with other rhythms, harmonies and improvisational techniques.
Work with other musicians, or record and overdub layers of sound.
Playing the hang drum takes time, dedication and a love for its own particular sound. Players can explore the wonderful tunes & soundscapes after practicing.
Hang Drum vs Handpan: What Is The Distinction?
Although the terms"handpan" and "hang drum" are used interchangeably, they have slight differences that characterize them as two unique instruments. This knowledge will hopefully also help in reconciling the terminology and, at least a little bit more: develop an understanding for how it has been developed into this strange percussion instrument.
Origin and Naming:
PANArt in Switzerland makes the original hang drum, and "hang" comes fromSwiss-German language stand for Hand..Well.
That is when the term handpan was created to describe similar instruments made by different makers worldwide.
Manufacturing and Design:
The hang drum is produced exclusively by PANArt under the protection of their copyright and production principles.
A number of manufacturers produce handpans with varying designs, materials and musical tuning techniques.
Tone & Sound Profile:
Even though they share similar tonal qualities, the finest characteristics of this unique and beautifully tuned sound is a common feature in all hang drums by PANArt.
There will always be subtle differences in tone, sustain and overall sound between two handpans of different brands.
Branding and IP:
PANArt owns a trademark and exclusive rights for the hang drum name, design, there is only one non-Panart instrument legitimately also called a Hang Drum.
For this reason, other manufacturers prefer to use the name "handpan" in its misuse, or their own brand.
There are some subtle differences between hang drums and handpans, but these help to highlight the continued development of this mesmerising instrument. At the end of it all, both are moving towards a common cause: to deliver unforgettable and compelling musical experiences for players (and listeners) in your game.
Conclusion
A hang drum, or handpan: what a wonderful display of contemporary music creation. The handpan, with its otherworldly story of creation and ear-opening harmonics has struck a deep chord in the hearts of countless listeners all over the world regardless cultural background, leaving us on one side appreciative audiences and drawing an ever wider crowd or pan enthusiasts.
Maybe you're a long-time musician looking for another avenue of expression, or simply intrigued by the otherworldly sounds of these instruments either way; hang drums serve as an introduction to a world that is unique all its own. If anything, the mystical and venerable reputation of this incredible instrument continues to increase with its spawn as it beckons us on a unique sonic power quest.
To discover the magical music that can come out of an enchanting hang drum, if you are interested is becoming a part local handpan community or attending workshops and events. Many advanced players also provide lessons and tips for beginners to get the most out of this enchanting musical instrument. Listen in, and allow your mind to relax for a few minutes as the beautiful tones of handpan music infuse you into all that is tranquil and reflective.
