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What is a Hang Instrument?
The Hang is a modern percussion instrument originating from Switzerland, known for its ethereal, melodic sound.
Shaped like a UFO, the hang consists of two convex metal shells fused together, with tuned notes arranged on the top surface.
Played with the hands, the hang produces a soothing, resonant tone that blends rhythm and melody, making it a popular instrument for meditative and ambient music.
Detailed Hang Instrument Facts
| Instrument Name | Hang |
| Instrument Family | Percussion (Melodic) |
| Alternative Names | The hang is also referred to as the “hang drum” or “handpan” in colloquial terms, although its creators prefer the term “hang.” The word “hang” means “hand” in Bernese German, emphasizing the instrument’s hand-played nature. |
| Geographical Presence | The hang is primarily played in Switzerland, where it was invented, but has gained worldwide popularity. It is widely used in meditative music, yoga sessions, and street performances across Europe, North America, and Asia. |
| Instrument Classification | The hang falls under the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system as 111.241.2, identifying it as a struck idiophone. This classification includes instruments that produce sound through vibration when struck. |
| Unique Features | The hang is a convex, circular instrument made from two fused steel shells. The top shell, called the “ding,” has a central dome surrounded by a circle of tuned tone fields, while the bottom shell, or “gu,” has a resonating hole. The instrument is played with the hands and fingers, creating a melodic, resonant sound that combines rhythm and harmony. Its design allows for the production of both percussive beats and melodic tones, making it a unique hybrid of a drum and a melodic instrument. The hang’s ability to produce a wide range of dynamic sounds and sustain notes gives it an ethereal and meditative quality. |
| Sound Characteristics | The hang produces a soft, resonant, and harmonious sound with a soothing, bell-like quality. Each tone field is tuned to a specific note, allowing the player to create melodies by striking different areas. The instrument’s sound is rich and layered, with overtones and vibrations that blend into a calming, ambient texture. The hang’s dynamic range allows it to produce both gentle, melodic tones and sharp, percussive beats. Its ethereal sound is often described as otherworldly and meditative, making it ideal for relaxation. |
| Typical Music Genres | The hang is commonly used in meditative, ambient, and new-age music, where its calming sound complements yoga and mindfulness practices. It is also popular in world music and fusion genres, blending with instruments like flutes, guitars, and other percussive instruments. The hang is frequently used in street performances and improvisational music due to its portability and expressive sound. In modern times, it has found a place in experimental and electronic music, where its unique tonal qualities add depth to compositions. |
| Components | Top Shell (Ding), Bottom Shell (Gu), Tone Fields, Resonating Hole |
| Construction | The hang is constructed from two convex steel shells that are carefully shaped and fused together. The top shell, called the “ding,” features a central dome surrounded by tone fields, which are hammered into the steel to create specific pitches. The bottom shell, or “gu,” has a resonating hole that enhances the instrument’s sound and allows the player to create additional tones by manipulating airflow. The steel is treated with nitriding to increase durability and enhance tonal quality. Each hang is handcrafted by skilled artisans, with precise tuning and shaping to ensure a rich, resonant sound. The craftsmanship involved makes each hang unique, with slight variations in tone and resonance. |
| Size and Weight | The hang typically measures around 50 to 60 centimeters (20 to 24 inches) in diameter and has a height of approximately 20 to 25 centimeters (8 to 10 inches). It weighs between 4 to 6 kilograms (9 to 13 pounds), making it portable and easy to carry. |
| Variations and Customizations | Variations of the hang include different scales and tuning systems, allowing players to choose an instrument suited to their musical style. Some hangs are tuned to pentatonic or diatonic scales, while others are customized for specific cultural or experimental scales. Customizations may include additional tone fields for expanded range or unique designs etched or painted on the surface. Modern handpans, inspired by the hang, may use different materials or construction techniques, but the original hang by PANArt remains the most sought after. Players often select hangs based on their tonal preferences and the emotional resonance of the tuning. |
| Instrument History | The hang was invented in 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer of PANArt in Bern, Switzerland. Drawing inspiration from the steelpan and other idiophones like the ghatam and gamelan, they created the hang to combine rhythmic and melodic elements in one instrument. Initially crafted for meditative and personal use, the hang gained widespread attention for its unique sound and aesthetic appeal. Over time, variations of the hang, known as handpans, have been developed by other makers. Despite its relatively recent origin, the hang has become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its versatility and meditative qualities. |
| Similar Types of Instrument | Steelpan (Caribbean Drum), Udu (Nigerian Percussion Instrument), Tongue Drum |
| Playing Technique | The hang is played by striking its tone fields with the hands and fingers, using varying pressure and hand positions to create different dynamics and tones. Players can produce soft, melodic notes by lightly tapping the tone fields or create percussive beats by striking the edges or center dome. The gu hole on the bottom shell allows for additional tonal effects, such as modulating pitch by covering and uncovering the hole. Advanced techniques include tapping with fingernails or palm slaps to produce sharp, rhythmic accents. The hang’s intuitive layout allows for freeform improvisation, making it accessible to beginners while offering depth for experienced players. |
| Learning Difficulty | Low to moderate; the hang’s intuitive design makes it easy for beginners to produce pleasing sounds without prior musical experience. However, mastering the instrument involves learning advanced techniques like dynamic control, rhythm, and tone modulation. Players must also develop a sense of timing and coordination to blend melody and rhythm seamlessly. The hang’s ability to produce subtle tonal variations and overtones requires practice and a refined touch for expressive performances. |
| Notable Musicians or Composers | The hang has been popularized by musicians such as Manu Delago, who has showcased its versatility in solo performances and collaborations with artists like Björk. Daniel Waples is another renowned hang player, known for his street performances and contributions to world music. Various YouTube performers and composers have also introduced the hang to global audiences, highlighting its unique sound and meditative qualities. The instrument has become a favorite among musicians seeking to blend traditional and modern elements in their compositions. |
| Famous Works | Notable performances by Manu Delago, including his work on tracks like “Mono Desire” and collaborations with Björk, have brought the hang to a global audience. Pieces like “Hang Massive’s Once Again” showcase the instrument’s meditative and rhythmic potential, blending traditional melodies with contemporary production. The hang’s unique sound is also featured in experimental and ambient albums, highlighting its versatility across genres. |
Additional Information
| Maintenance | Proper maintenance of the hang includes cleaning it with a soft cloth after each use to remove oils and moisture from the surface. To prevent rust, players should store the instrument in a dry environment and consider applying a light protective oil periodically. Avoid striking the hang with hard objects, as this can damage the tone fields or affect the tuning. A padded case is recommended for transporting the hang to protect it from scratches and impacts. With proper care, the hang can maintain its sound quality and appearance for many years. |
| Price Range | Hangs range in price from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the craftsmanship, materials, and tuning scale. Authentic hangs made by PANArt are highly sought after and can be more expensive. Modern handpans inspired by the hang are often more affordable, ranging from $500 to $2,000, but may vary in quality. Custom-made hangs with specific tunings or designs may also command higher prices, reflecting the skill and time required to craft these instruments. |
