While there are several differences, handpans and tongue drums are closely related. Both instruments are based on the steel drum (steel pan) and usually have eight or nine notes laid out in a circular pattern. The ordering of the notes in unimportant: handpans and tongue drums can be played purely on intuition.
A Little Handpan History
The first handpans actually don't date back very far. The original models started to appear on the internet in 2007 and were based on a hang drum introduced back in 2000. That hang-drum, in turn, was based on the original steel drum from the early 1930s. Handpans are considered idiophones. An idiophone (in Ancient Greek this translates as ‘idio’, meaning own, and ‘phone’ meaning sound) is an instrument that's able to generate sound on its own, so without the help of any flow of air, strings or skins.
What's the Difference Between Handpans, Hang Drums and Tongue Drums?
The playing surface of a handpan is not only hammered by hand but played by hand. Handpans are relatively big and usually measure 50cm to 60cm in diameter. Generally smaller, tongue drums have cut and raised sections (like a tongue) that vibrate with a specific note when struck. While they can technically be played with the hands, tongue drums are most commonly played with rubber mallets and measure between 20cm and 50cm in diameter.
Different Models
Handpans come in various shapes and sizes. There are wooden handpans, metal handpans, big tongue drums and compact tongue drums, including various extraordinarily expensive as well as remarkably affordable models. In general, the concept is the same. The root note of the handpan is located at the top-centre, encircled by the other notes.
How Much Does a Handpan or Tongue Drum Cost?
There's a big difference in price when it comes handpans and tongue drums, which mainly stems from the fact that handpans are generally larger and crafted by hand, while tongue drums are smaller and usually made using machines. The most affordable handpans in our range go for around £800 and the price of the most expensive models runs into the thousands. Tongue drums are a lot cheaper, ranging from around £100 for the most affordable models to more than £1,000 for the highest-quality tongue drums.
Which Handpan or Tongue Drum Should I Buy?
That depends on several factors. If you're a beginner, it's probably a good idea to start out with a tongue drum, especially since it's cheaper. You also need to decide which root note you want since it largely determines the overall sound of the handpan or tongue drum.
Are Handpans Difficult to Play?
Not at all. In fact, handpans have been designed to be accessible and are really easy to play by lightly tapping the playing surface with the fingertips. This creates a short, warm sound. The root note of the handpan can be played by tapping the top, while the surrounding notes have been purposefully picked and intuitively placed so you can never play a wrong note.
How Do You Play a Handpan or Tongue Drum?
As the name suggests, handpans are played with the hands. To shape bright, clear notes, it's important that you strike the handpan with the fleshy part just below the tip of your finger. What's also important here is that you quickly release the finger again, since leaving it resting on the playing surface for too long will dampen the sound and make the note lose its richness. It's also possible to play a handpan using silicone or rubber beaters, just like the beaters used to play a tongue drum. Since tongue drums are quite difficult to play using the hands, it's recommended to play them using a pair of rubber beaters.
Tuning a Handpan or Tongue Drum
Sadly, handpans can't be tuned. Tongue drums, on the other hand, can be tuned by sticking on two small but powerful magnets and shifting into them position to reduce the vibrations in the tongue. The pitch changes depending on how the magnets are positioned. Handpans can't be tuned this way - sticking a few of those magnets on a handpan will only result in a dull, rattling sound.
Handpan Maintenance
Handpans are easy to keep in great condition. Simply wipe it down every time you finish playing and give it a full clean using special handpan oil every three weeks. The oil helps to keep your handpan looking good and counters cracks and corrosion.
Make sure to always store your handpan in a dry place to limit the risk of corrosion and damage.
What Do I Need to Play a Handpan?
Since handpans are designed to be accessible, not a lot is needed to play one. The instrument requires no prior knowledge of music theory and is played using the hands or a pair of beaters as preferred. Handy accessories include a matching case or storage bag, handpan oil and a stand. The same is true for tongue drums, only here it's recommended to use rubber or silicone beaters.
Handpan Cases
So you can safely transport your valuable handpan or tongue drum, it's always a good idea to get a matching case or bag. Not only do bags and percussion cases counter scratches, they can extend the life of your instrument.
What Kind of Music Can You Play With a Handpan?
While handpans can be used in a wide range of styles, they're mainly aimed at soothing, calming or spiritual music. In addition to music, handpans are great tools for sound therapy and meditation.
Handpan Playing Tips
Since handpans are so intuitive to play, a handful of videos will be enough to help you on your way. Take a little time gathering tips from experienced pannists or go to a special workshop or take lessons to help you get to grips with the instrument more quickly. Our tip: make sure the playing surface always faces you and, as with any other instrument, remember to start slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Handpans, Hang Drums and Tongue Drums
How are handpans played?
Handpans are played using the fingertips or a set of rubber beaters. The same applies to tongue drums, except these are much harder to play with the hands.
Where does the handpan come from?
Based on the Caribbean steel drum, the handpan is a European invention modelled after a hang drum. The first handpan popped up on the internet around 2007, when American company Pantheon Steel announced they were working on an alternative for hang drums. Mind you, they had no choice, since PanArt - designer of the original 'Hang' drum - had already patented the name, hang drum.
How much does a handpan/hang drum cost?
The most affordable handpans go for around £800 while the price of the most expensive models runs into the thousands. Tongue drums are a lot cheaper, ranging from less than £50 for a compact model, to around £200 for a standard model and more than £1,000 for professional tongue drums.
Why are handpans so expensive?
Handpans are labour-intensive to craft. After the metal has been heated, the turtle shell-like playing surface is often hammered into shape by hand.
