Meet Craig – Your Guide to the Handpan Journey
Hi, I’m Craig, an experienced drummer, percussionist, musician and Handpan player. I’ve been connecting through rhythm with since I was 13. I discovered the Handpan 16 years ago, a most captivating instrument! Not only for its mesmerising tones, but also for the feelings it evokes!
Why the Handpan?
The Handpan is a relatively new instrument that creates an immersive experience for the player, in the way it brings melody and rhythm together. Ethereal tones, deep resonance and percussive opportunities combine to create a beautiful instrument of expression.
My Approach to Teaching
‘Intuitive learning’ anchors the lessons in teaching you the tools to be able to express yourself on the Handpan, but also honours discovering your natural musical expression.
In my classes you’ll experience a relaxed, supportive atmosphere where together we’ll explore the basics, and learn techniques and rhythms that will become part of your alphabet of expression. I’m here to make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way, supporting and guiding you from your first touch of the pan to understanding notes and chords as you step to composing and playing melodies of your own.
Handpan Lessons Designed for You
Handpan lessons are available for all levels, whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced musician. I offer personalised one-on-one lessons and structured group workshops designed to ensure everybody walks away with a new skill and a deeper understanding of the Handpan.
More than music
Over my years of playing handpans, I’ve learnt a lot about materials, connected with makers, other players, tested different mics, understood first hand the benefits of different formats of pans, and explored the best ways to access handpans at a range of budgets. Should you wish to acquire a Handpan, I am happy to help guide you to your first pan – An exciting milestone!
What to expect from the lessons?
- Intro to the Handpan – Learn the history and origin of the instrument, it’s anatomy, how to hold it and play it.
- Techniques – We’ll cover the basics; finger placement, tone fields and how to create different sounds. Finger exercises, stretches and useful practice sequences will address hand dominance and create freedom and flow. Using different parts of our hands to explore unique sounds and creating dynamics.
- Finding your rhythm – As we develop a sense of timing, rhythm and musicality, your natural rhythms begin to emerge. We’ll combine all of these skill areas to tap into your voice on the Handpan – how you play it.
- Building confidence –Whether you are interested in playing for yourself, Handpan as a meditative practice or playing for others, over time I will help you find your unique voice on the Handpan, to feel comfortable and confident in any such scenario.
- Equipment – By the end of our time together you will have attained a wealth of knowledge surrounding types of handpans, sound models, materials, cases, recording equipment and everything that goes with ‘playing a handpan’.
Lesson formats
Taster
For those wishing to dip their toes and understand whether the Handpan is right for them, I offer a taster lesson. This lesson will touch on a brief history of the Handpan, some resources such as noteworthy players and makers to begin to understand different sound models and what is possible with the Handpan. This also includes hands-on playing time with a provided handpan. A perfect way to see the world of the Handpan that lays ahead. Should you purchase a block thereafter, the cost of the taster will go towards that block.
Block of 5
By the end of 5 lessons you will have a full understanding of the instrument, basic playing patterns and enough techniques and information for you to feel armed to venture further down the handpan road.
Block of 10
By the end of 10 lessons, you’ll be more developed in your technical ability, dynamic understanding, note combinations, composition abilities and modes of expression. You’ll have an ear for understanding flow and a deeper confidence in playing the Handpan.