The handpan, with its mesmerizing tones and celestial resonance, was created in the year 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, founders of PANArt in Bern, Switzerland. Inspired by the Trinidadian steelpan and the Ghatam, an Indian clay pot instrument, they combined centuries of musical tradition with modern innovation to create something entirely new—an instrument that spoke directly to the soul.

Felix and Sabina’s journey to create the handpan was rooted in a deep love for sound exploration. Their vision was to craft an instrument that not only produced harmonious tones but also evoked a meditative and emotional experience. After years of research and countless experiments with steel, they developed the Hang—the first handpan. The name "Hang," derived from the Bernese German word for "hand," reflected the intimate connection between the musician and the instrument.

Who Created the Handpan?

A New Era of Sound and Emotion

The Hang was unlike anything the world had heard before. Its ethereal tones invited listeners into a state of tranquility, while its intuitive design allowed even beginners to produce beautiful melodies. Musicians, spiritual seekers, and sound therapists quickly recognized the Hang's power to transcend boundaries and connect people through sound.

As the demand for the Hang grew, so did the desire for similar instruments. Though PANArt ceased production of the original Hang in 2013, their innovation gave birth to a global movement. Today, countless artisans and makers around the world continue to craft handpans, each adding their own interpretation while honoring the spirit of the original creation.

The Legacy Lives On

The handpan is more than just a musical instrument—it's a vessel of emotion, a bridge between cultures, and a tool for inner peace. Every handpan echoes the legacy of Felix and Sabina’s devotion to sound, reminding us that music has the power to heal, inspire, and connect us to something greater.

For those who play the handpan, each touch is an act of gratitude, a continuation of a journey that began with two visionaries who dared to reimagine the world of sound.

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