The handpan, un musical instrument fascinating, captivates a global audience with its rich sound, combining melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. This percussion instrument, despite its recent introduction, offers unmatched versatility. For the musicians of all levels, master the handpan requires a refined technique.
This article reveals methods to perfect your game, from the correct grip of the instrument to the execution of ranges sophisticated. Explore advanced strategies to enrich your musicality and tips to evolve in your practice. Get ready to excel in the art of hang drum.
Also to read: Comment choisir son premier Handpan ?
1. What is a handpan and how does it work?
The handpan is a percussion instrument with an empty belly that can be confused, and rightly so, with a flying saucer. It is made up of two half-shells in steel or another metal that have been hammered and shaped by hand to create a whole series of notes.
The handpan It can be played standing or sitting, by placing it on the floor, on its own legs, or on a suitable support. To produce sounds with a hangThe player (or the female player) must hit the notes with their fingers, palms, or by using drumsticks.
There are different techniques of striking and pressure. The handpan is capable of producing a range of melodic notes and harmonicsThis makes it a versatile instrument that can be used to play music from different genres.
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2. Why is playing technique important for the handpan?
The game technique is important because it allows you to fully enjoy all the possibilities offered by this instrumentBy mastering the different striking techniques, you will be able to produce a wide range of sounds and of notesThis will give you the opportunity to play many styles of music and create original compositions.
Voici en vidéo, a exemple parfait de technique de jeu pour débutant proposé par Thierry Bleton
Furthermore, a good playing technique will allow you to play smoothly and musically, which is crucial for achieving good results when playing solo or in a group. It will also help you produce quality sounds and avoid mistakes and technical issues that can ruin your performance.
Finally, the playing technique is important for the handpan because it allows you to develop your creativity and your musical expression. By mastering the different playing techniques, you will be able to play more freely and explore new musical ideas. This will help you progress as a musician and find your own path in the world of the handpan.
3. The basics of handpan playing technique
a. How to hold the instrument?
The way you hold your handpan is important for playing comfortably and effectively. There are several ways to hold the instrument, but here are some general tips:
- Sit comfortably and place the handpan in front of you. You can place it on your thighs, on a stand, or on a flat surface. If you rest it on your knees, ensure that the instrument does not touch other parts of your body, as this could absorb the vibrations and reduce the intensity of the notes played.
- Make sure your hands are at a comfortable distance from each other and that you can easily reach all the notes of the instrument. The notes They must all be easily accessible so that you can play without limiting the potential of the instrument.
- It is important to note that each player has their own way of holding the instrument and what works for one may not necessarily work for another. The best way to find the playing position that suits you best is to practice and discover what works best for you.
b. How to strike the notes and produce sounds?
For produce sounds with your handpan, you can use your fingers, your palms, or mallets. The technique you use will depend on the sound you want to produce. For example, you can strike a note with your fingertips to produce a clear and crystalline sound, or with the flat of your hand to produce a duller and deeper sound.
Here are some additional tips to help you produce sounds with your handpan:
- Experiment with the different notes of the instrument to find the ones that suit you best and produce the sounds you want to play. Each hang is unique and has its own range of notes and sounds, so take the time to discover everything your instrument has to offer.
- Don't give up! Practice regularly to improve your playing technique. The more you practice, the more skilled you will become with your instrument. We are convinced that after a few hours of training, the difference will be easily noticeable. Your playing will become increasingly fluid and more pleasant to the ear.
- Listen to other handpan players and try to replicate their playing techniques. This will help you discover new ways to produce sounds and play the instrument. You can also watch online videos to discover different playing techniques and get inspired by how other musicians play the handpan.
c. How to play harmonics and scales?
Harmonics and scales are essential elements of the handpan playing technique. They allow you to develop your musical ear and agility, and to familiarize yourself with the different notes of the instrument.
Here are some tips for playing scales and modes on your handpan:
- Start by learning the scale of your instrument (in Ré mineur for most handpan models). This will help you get familiar with the notes and develop your musical ear.
- Be careful with the accuracy of the notes you play. Make sure to hit each note precisely to achieve a correct and pleasant sound to the ear.
- Use a metronome if necessary to maintain a steady rhythm and work on your rhythmic accuracy.
In addition to working on your scales and arpeggios, it is important to develop your improvisation skills and your playing fluency. To do this, you can:
- Learn pieces from the repertoire or compositions specially written for the handpan.
- Create your own compositions using the techniques and scales you have learned.
- Experiment with different styles of music and phrasing to find what suits you best and have fun playing.
In summary, to become a better handpan player, it is important to work on harmonics and scales, but also to develop your ability to play pieces and compositions, and to express your musicality.
4. Advanced handpan playing techniques
Once you have mastered the basics of handpan playing technique, you can explore more advanced techniques to enhance your playing and produce even more complex and interesting sounds.
Here are some advanced handpan playing techniques you can explore:
- Techniques of slaps
Using broad movements with your wrist, you can produce percussive sounds by striking the notes in a dry and quick manner. This technique is particularly useful for adding intensity and "punch" to your tracks.
- Vibrato
By vibrating the notes, you can give them more expressiveness and warmth. To produce a vibrato, you can use different techniques, such as sliding your fingers over the notes or shaking your hand above the note you just struck.
- Slides
By sliding your fingers over the notes, you can produce softer and smoother sounds. You can use this technique to add consistency to your pieces and to transition smoothly from one note to another.
5. How to play the handpan with other instruments?
Let's start with this magnificent example of combining the handpan with the Udu. Enjoy the result yourself
Play the handpan Playing with other instruments can be a very enriching and creative experience. It allows you to discover new sounds and create original compositions by combining the different musical properties of your instruments.
Here are some tips to help you play the hang drum harmoniously with other instruments:
- The steel hang drum It is mainly used as a "background instrument", it helps to establish a musical atmosphere and to accompany instruments that are naturally more prominent (piano, violin, guitar).
- Practice regularly with your co-musicians to develop your synchronization and your precision. If you are playing established pieces, make sure to know the sheet music (or keep it in sight).
- Be creative and flexible by trying new things and adapting your play to the needs of the composition. Improvisation plays an important role for all the hang players. Don't be too hard on yourself and let it magic of the handpan make an impact.
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6. Summary of Essential Techniques to Master the Handpan
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Hand positioning | Keep your hands relaxed for optimal resonance and avoid fatigue. |
| Note-taking | Use the tips of your fingers for a soft and precise touch on the notes. |
| Rhythmic game | Integrate varied rhythmic patterns to enrich your musical compositions. |
| Improvisation | Practice improvisation to explore sound possibilities and develop your unique style. |
| Maintenance of the handpan | Regularly clean your handpan with a soft cloth and protect it from extreme weather conditions. |
This table aims to provide a clear understanding of the fundamentals for advanced mastery of the handpan, thus ensuring harmonious progression in your musical practice.
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Conclusion
It is possible to explore several advanced techniques to improve your game and produce more complex and interesting sounds. In addition to working on your playing technique, it is important to continue developing your musical ear and creativity. Listen to music, reproduce the phrases and techniques you hear, and try to create your own pieces using the different ranges and techniques that you have learned.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I improve my striking technique on the handpan?
The key is in the delicacy: use the tips of your fingers to lightly strike the notes. Practice regularly to develop a precise and melodic touch, focusing on dynamics and control.
2. Are there specific exercises to improve on the handpan?
Yes, exercises like musical scales and repetitive rhythms help refine your sense of timing and melody. Incorporate hand independence practices for complete mastery.
3. How to integrate musicality into my handpan playing?
Explore different scales and modes to enrich your musical expression. Play with dynamics and tempo, and don't forget to add pauses to breathe, which brings emotion to your playing.
4. Where to find resources to learn advanced handpan techniques?
Many handpan stores et online stores offer tutorials and courses, ranging from beginner to expert level. Also join dedicated communities and forums for additional tips and inspiration.
5. What is the impact of choosing a handpan on playing technique?
The choice of a handpan, qu'il soit neuf or used, et sa gamme profoundly influence your playing style. A handpan with a range that inspires you will facilitate learning and innovation in your musical practice.
