On Sunday we went to our local beach for coffee. As we enjoyed the views across the yet unspoilt beach and rugged coastline of the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina while chatting to friends, we paused as the sound of haunting music caught our attention. At first, we thought the music was emanating from the cafe but as I turned to locate the source of this mystical sound I noticed a man playing what can only be loosely be described as an instrument shaped like a cataplana.
As the sound continued to float on the breeze, I felt a spiritual connection so I moved closer to inspect the instrument and how the different sounds were produced. Plucking up courage I asked the man what the instrument was called: A Handpan. I was hooked. Love at first sight or should I say, sound. I asked him to play some more so I could record on my mobile phone. He kindly obliged and I made up my mind there and then I must have one.
However, as they are handcrafted they are expensive with potentially a long lead time from placing the order. We continued to talk and on leaving he gave me his card. Detlef Michael Cremer.
The moment I arrived home I spent hours researching how and where I’d buy one and then which tone (Scale) I preferred. It was at this point I began spinning on the spot as there were so many options. But where there is a will there’s a way… and I will find a way!
In the meantime
Thank you, Michael, for such a wonderful smile!
Related posts: Weekly Smile.
Many years ago, I played the classical guitar but after an injury to my hand, I was unable to play. That was 40 years ago and the passion of creating music has been missing until now. I do hope I can manage to play this wonderful instrument.
If there are any other handpan players in the Algarve? I’d love to connect!
Hi
The handpan looks a lot like a steel drum, except upside down. The steel drum is very common in Caribbean music. It is played with hammers, much like a xylophone. In my youth (way, way back) I bought one when I had a work assignment on Grand Bahama. The price was very reasonable and it sounded great. Looking for a steel drum might prove to be an acceptable compromise if you can’t find a handpan.
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Thanks, Bob. I’ve come across a https://www.facebook.com/ravdrum/ as an option and they are cheaper, but I’m not sold on them.
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Very cool, and with a great sound. Very similar to a steel drum, but I think without the resonator and using hands instead of mallets.
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Oh yeah, the pingback didn’t work (I haven’t been getting them), so I am going to add the URL to the comment’s of this week’s smile so I don’t forget 🙂
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Hi Trent, I like the idea of using hands as it is more tactile. 🙂
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Yes, and very expressive.
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On YouTube is Hang Massive, I think that’s the name! Beautiful, filmed in Ladakh in India
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A friend also recommended Hang Massive and I’ve been listening to them this evening. As you say: Beautiful
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Very pleasant to listen to. As others have commented very much like steel drums. My school has a great steel band always enjoy listening to them when they do their concerts.
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I love the sound… it is so restul
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You MUST follow this creative calling!
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I’ve just got to locate one now. I’m going to be patient though because the quality varies so much
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Wonderful, the speed with which his hands move is amazing.
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Even though I used to play the guitar, I doubt I’ll manage anywhere need that speed.
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Very cool! I do hope that you find a way to play this instrument.
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Beautiful…peaceful
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