The Opsilon Handpan (also known as a Hang Drum) is the instrument you never knew you needed in your life.
Similar to a steel drum, the handpan is played with the hands (as you’d expect) and is domed rather than upside down. Musician Kate Stone is no stranger to hand drums; in fact, she’s practically a pro. Her YouTube channel is packed with her music, but her performance of “Urban” may be the most captivating of them all.
Originally from Berlin, Kate began playing classical piano at a young age before discovering the hang drum, which she describes as “a powerful instrument that combines melody and percussion.”
In her video below, you can hear the true beauty that emanates from the Opsilon handpan. It’s unlike any instrument we’ve heard before.
Youtube
When she begins to play, it sounds like there are indeed multiple bells ringing, but in reality she is just playing with her two hands. After about 30 seconds, she starts tapping new places on the instrument to add percussion sounds, making the music sound like something you might hear during a luxurious massage or a meditative yoga session.
Youtube
Naturally, people online are enthralled by her music (and the instrument!) and are saying they’re in love with it and it’s magical. The great thing about hang drums is that most are handmade and therefore hard to come by.
Check out “Urban” in the video below and get ready to relax. Be sure to share this captivating music with your friends.
