Learn to play handpan
The ding
The ding is the main note of the handpan. It's on the top of the instruments, mostly in the center, except for the mutants where it is shifted to the side. If there are no bottoms added, it is the lowest note of the instrument. It is often the tonic of the scale.
The bottoms notes
The bottoms notes or more commonly called "bottoms" are the notes located under the shell of the instrument. The addition of bottoms allows you to enrich the composition and the possibilities of your instrument to have a more open playing. It is possible to add notes in order to make several scales in one instrument or to naturally extend the scale in the up or down direction.
The harmonics
Each note of the Naos handpan consists of three main frequencies. The note itself, the fundamental, its octave, the fifth of the octave and other finer perceptible higher natural harmonics. This explains the oval shapes of the notes. The different axes of the notes are the harmonics of the note.
It is possible to enrich one's playing by playing only one harmonic of a particular note and even to make slight bends in order to modulate the sound of the latter.
For example, if you put your finger on the side of the shortest axis of a note, depending on your pressure you will partially or totally cancel the vibration of the fifth, allowing you to play only the octave on the longest axis.
The clap
A very good rhythmic accessory is the clap. there is nothing like adding a dry percussive hit to enrich the rhythm of your musical phrases. The clap is usually played on the side of the instrument, just above the rim in the handpan structure between two notes. Her the steel is pushed back for a long time, which makes a strong clap possible. Whipping these areas of the instrument with the tip of the index or middle finger gives a dry sound very appreciable to give rhythm
The shoulder tone
Another great rhythmic accessory is the shoulder tone. this is the sound produced by the edge of the ding. By hitting the periphery of the ding, which is between the structure of the instrument and the beginning of the membrane, it emits a frequency that is a very simple and effective asset to complete your playing
The Gu
A flange located on the bottom of the instrument. This flange allows to open the body of the handpan and to modulate the volume of air inside. This body allows the appearance of a Helmholtz resonance, thus making room for the vibration of the different harmonics. The Gu also has its own frequency that can be played. It is in coherence with the top of the instrument in order to create a harmony in the whole structure. This one is chosen in accordance with the scale.
Online School Master the handpan
Learn the handpan in a simple and fun way. From beginner to expert, all the lessons you need to progress quickly and have fun playing. Also in english.
David's pedagogical approach allows you to assimilate the lessons step by step and to progress quickly. The lessons are adapted to your rhythm, your level and your lifestyle.
