#Handpan

[crokomoko]

i think this is my fav track with my new tongue drum from moisai.

watering plants to trust the universe

[fidjiefidjie]

🦌 Douceur du jour 😍

The deer like the concert ....

James Hunter Crossley joue sur un handpan 🎶 dans le parc de Richmond à Londres

Source: Masayuki Tsuda

👋 Bel après-midi

[ezekiellsplayground]

To all my friends & family in the Northern Hemisphere, merry Christmas from the future.

And to all the Aussies & Southern Hemisphere folks, have a lovely and gentle day.

[escapizum]

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[daerani]

Moods...

Goro and V having a great time in the Badlands... Almost New Year's!!!

[transparentgentlemenmarker]

Bien le bonjour

[artfilmfan]

actress Golshifteh Farahani playing the hang drum ❤️

[mysticalblizzardcolor]

Listen/purchase: Pellucidity by Yaima

[riverghost-dolls]

come jam out with me and scara

[edenkai]

Handpan & Acoustic Guitar (Improv session)

ハンドパン×アコギ (即興セッション)

[fractus-quantizer]

Wandering bird exploring an underwater temple (feat. Piotr Karpiuk)

[fantasiawandering]

This is magical.

[melody-makers-0]

How to Travel with a Handpan Drum: Tips and Tricks for Safe and Smooth Journeys

Traveling with a handpan drum is an exciting adventure—whether you're playing on the streets of a new city, performing in a concert hall, or simply bringing the peaceful sounds of your instrument to a remote natural landscape. However, unlike some other musical instruments, the handpan requires careful consideration due to its delicate nature. In this blog, we’ll share some essential tips to ensure your handpan drum stays safe and well-protected while you’re on the move.

1. Choose the Right Travel Case

A proper case is the first line of defense against damage when traveling with your handpan drum. Whether you’re flying, taking a road trip, or hiking, a high-quality, durable case is essential.

Hard Cases: Opt for a hard case made from materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber. These cases provide the best protection against physical impacts and environmental conditions. They can withstand rough handling at airports or on the road and help ensure that your handpan stays in tune.

Soft Cases: While more lightweight, soft cases offer less protection. They might be useful for short trips where weight is a concern, but it’s safer to use a hard case for long-distance travel.

Recommended Products: Many handpan manufacturers offer custom hard cases, like TurtleCare Hardcase, which are specifically designed to fit the shape of handpans and provide excellent protection during transit.

2. Flying with a Handpan Drum

Flying can be tricky when traveling with a handpan drum due to size restrictions and the handling of your instrument by airline staff. Here are a few tips for flying with your handpan:

Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage: The best option is to carry your handpan onboard as carry-on luggage. Many airlines allow handpans as carry-ons, but it's important to check their specific policies before you fly. Ensure you’re aware of the overhead bin space available.

Airline Selection: Larger airlines tend to be more accommodating to musical instruments. It’s also a good idea to inform the airline in advance and make the staff aware of your fragile instrument.

Storing the Instrument: If carry-on isn’t possible, you’ll need to check your handpan. Ensure that it’s packed in a durable hard case and marked as "fragile" to avoid mishandling. If possible, bring your handpan to the gate to ensure it’s stored properly during the flight.

Flight Attendants: In some cases, flight attendants might allow you to store your handpan in a special storage space or closet onboard. Always ask politely before boarding.

3. Protecting Your Handpan from the Elements

Handpans are sensitive to humidity, temperature fluctuations, and extreme weather conditions, so you’ll need to be mindful of where and how you travel.

Humidity Control: Moisture is one of the biggest threats to your handpan. Even stainless steel handpans can rust if exposed to high humidity for extended periods. Consider using silica gel packs in your case to absorb moisture during travel, especially when traveling to humid locations.

Temperature Sensitivity: Handpans are delicate when it comes to temperature extremes. Avoid leaving your instrument in a hot car, or storing it in places where the temperature fluctuates dramatically.

Traveling in the Rain: If you’re traveling in rainy conditions, ensure that your case is waterproof, or pack an additional waterproof cover to protect your instrument.

4. Transporting Your Handpan Drum on Road Trips

If you’re driving to your destination, the biggest concern will be how to pack and store your handpan securely in your vehicle. Here are a few road-trip tips:

Positioning: Always store your handpan drum in the center of your vehicle, away from the edges. Place it in the back seat or securely on the floor. Avoid putting it in the trunk where it could be exposed to temperature changes or rough handling.

Seat Belt Safety: Consider using the seatbelt to secure your handpan drum, ensuring it won’t shift or roll during sharp turns or sudden stops.

Avoid Pressure Points: Be careful not to put any weight or heavy items on top of your handpan while traveling, as it can distort the shape and affect the sound.

5. Traveling with Multiple Handpans

If you’re a musician who needs to bring multiple handpans along, carrying more than one instrument can be challenging. Here’s how to make it easier:

Use a Trolley: For longer journeys, a trolley or handpan backpack with wheels can help you transport multiple instruments without straining your back. There are specially designed handpan backpacks that can fit two or more handpans, along with additional accessories.

Stackable Cases: If you’re flying with several instruments, stackable hard cases designed for multiple handpans are a great option. These cases can help distribute the weight and ensure your instruments stay safe during transit.

6. Keeping Your Handpan in Tune

One of the most common concerns when traveling with a handpan is detuning. The changing air pressure in flight, bumps during transportation, and temperature fluctuations can cause your handpan to go out of tune.

Tuning Maintenance: After any long journey, it’s a good idea to check the tuning of your handpan. If you notice any detuning, you may need to find a professional tuner to help you get it back to pitch.

Self-Tuning Tools: If you’re experienced in handpan tuning, you can carry a tuning hammer and mallet to make minor adjustments. However, be cautious and only make small changes, as tuning a handpan requires precision.

7. Taking Care of Your Handpan After Travel

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s important to give your handpan some care and attention to ensure it stays in top condition:

Clean and Dry: After traveling, always clean your handpan drum with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or moisture that may have accumulated. Use a soft, microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the surface.

Oiling: Consider using a ceramic-based oil like TurtleCare to keep your handpan’s surface protected and rust-free. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth and gently wipe the surface.

[daily-instruments]

Daily Instrument — Handpan

The handpan is an idiophone originating from Switzerland in 2000 and based on the Trinidadian and Tobagonian steel pan. The handpan is made of two hollow steel domes bonded together. The player places the handpan on their lap and strikes with their hand one of of 8–9 dimples.