The handpan is an absolutely beginner-friendly instrument where percussion and melody meet. Playing the handpan creates soothing, spherical and long-lasting soundscapes that completely captivate both the player and the listener. Neither previous experience nor knowledge of music theory is necessary, because all the tone fields on the handpan are on a fixed scale. With most models, it is not possible to strike dissonant notes, i.e. notes that sound "wrong". Therefore, you can follow your own intuition while playing and lose yourself in mysterious, dreamy melodies after only a short time. With a little practice, more complicated rhythms, captivating chords and two-part melodies are possible.
Sela Harmony Handpans are completely handmade, perfectly tuned and made of nitrided steel. Nitriding hardens the surface of the handpan, giving it a percussive sound that resonates much faster than stainless steel handpans. Due to their short sustain, nitrided handpans are primarily suitable for fast playing, as the notes are more clearly separated from each other and overlap less. They are therefore recommended for drummers, cajon or djembe players, for example, who like to play faster rhythms and melodies. Handpans made of nitrided steel require more care than stainless steel models and should therefore be cleaned regularly and protected from moisture. Sela Harmony handpans have a matt, grey-blue finish, which gives them a mysterious, fascinating look.
The D Sabye tuning (fundamental frequency 440 Hz) has an airy, happy, dreamy and at the same time uplifting sound character. The central note in the middle of the handpan is D3, around which the notes G3, A3, B3, C#4, D4, E4, F#4, A4 are arranged in a circle. A particularly practical feature is that an overview of the scale with the individual tone fields is lasered onto the underside of the handpan. The Sabye scale became famous mainly through the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin, so this tuning is very popular in Polish folk music and classical music. The model is suitable as a solo instrument as well as for playing together with other handpans or other instruments such as tongue drums, guitar or percussion.
Each Sela Handpan comes with a bag made of tear-resistant nylon fabric, which, thanks to its good lining, provides optimal protection during transport. It can be carried either by hand with the two handles or comfortably as a backpack with the adjustable shoulder straps. A practical outer compartment offers enough space for small accessories such as a metronome.
