Discover
Handpan Voices

Handpan Voices
Author: Phil Begnett
Subscribed: 3Played: 60Subscribe
Share
© Phil Begnett
Description
Handpan Voices is a podcast dedicated to exploring the vibrant stories and experiences of handpan players from all around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, these inspiring conversations celebrate the power of music, community, and creativity. From beginners to renowned artists, Handpan Voices shines a light on the unique journeys of those who have fallen in love with the handpan, sharing tips, insights, and heartfelt moments. Join us as we discover the voices behind the music.
18 Episodes
Reverse
In this episode, I connect with Julia, better known as changeofcolours, to explore her unique approach to the handpan. Julia shares the story behind her name, how nature inspires her music, and what it feels like to play from the soul. From her experience collaborating with Kabecao to her recommendations for handpan artists like Konstantin Rossler, this interview is filled with insight and inspiration. Discover how Julia uses the handpan to connect with emotions, create introspective moments, and captivate audiences worldwide.
In this episode of Handpan Voices, we meet Sarah Paz Hyde, a handpan player, singer, and community-builder from the U.S., whose story is rooted in ancestry, healing, and a profound connection to sound.Sarah shares how a 2016 super bloom in Death Valley became the moment she first discovered the handpan—an experience that later inspired the name of her women’s gathering, Super Bloom. From her Filipino and European roots to her early training on violin, she explores how music, breath, and voice can help us face fear, reclaim life, and create space for transformation.We talk about: • Growing up with violin as a grounding force. • Ancestry, identity, and channeling voice as medicine. • Discovering the handpan in the desert and saying “yes” to its call. • Practical tips on improvisation and remembering compositions. • Reclaim Life workshops and why laughter yoga is breathwork in disguise. • Sound meditations, toning, and the healing power of vibration. • Building community through Super Bloom and Heartland Hangout. • Her 19-note E Kurd TacTa handpan from Brazil and the role of voice in shaping her music.A conversation full of warmth, honesty, and the reminder that music is more than notes—it’s breath, ancestry, and a way of returning home.Handpan Voices – Inspiring Voices of the Handpan World.
In this heartfelt Village episode of Handpan Voices, Phil chats with rising player @louis_handpan Louis Awode about his inspiring musical journey — from buying his first handpan on Amazon to collaborating with Sound-Sculpture and earning praise from seasoned pros.🎶 Topics covered: • How a random Instagram scroll reignited Louis’s love for music • The role of Master the Handpan in his development • Playing with his father and connecting through rhythm • Recording tips and overcoming self-doubt • Muted tone fields and how texture transformed his playing • Meeting the handpan community in real life — including a magical beach jam in MadeiraLouis reminds us that passion matters more than price, and every player has their own rhythm. This one’s for anyone just starting out — or rediscovering their musical voiceIf you want to learn how to play the handpan from some of the very best players in the world then visit - www.masterthehandnpan.com#HandpanVoices #LouisAwode #VillageSeries #HandpanPodcast #MasterTheHandpan
In this episode of Handpan Voices, Werner Kriebaum shares how one unforgettable concert in Vienna sparked a quiet obsession with the handpan — long before he even knew its name.From discovering the hung in the early 2000s to reconnecting with the instrument during the pandemic, Werner’s journey spans decades, detours, and deep personal growth. He talks about starting with a Rav Vast, learning through Master the Handpan, and the joy of improvisation, slow meditative playing, and finally finding his place in the handpan community.This is a story of patience, curiosity, and the quiet joy of making music on your own terms.
n this inspiring episode of Handpan Voices, Phil speaks with James Hunter Crossley — known to many as “Hunter” from the hit 90s TV show Gladiators. From bodybuilding at 12 to becoming a world record–holding strongman, James shares the powerful turning points that led him to the world of sound healing, gong baths, and handpans.We explore: • How a wrist injury ended his strength career but opened the door to music • His first experiences with the RAV Vast and handpan • The birth of The Handpan Gentlemen with Saraphin Zlatev • What busking on the streets of London taught him • Founding the Handpan Academy and teaching sound healing • His plans for future retreats and possibly hosting UK handpan eventsJames’s story is full of passion, drive, and heart — blending physical strength with sonic stillness. Whether you know him from the arena or the sound bath, this is a conversation not to miss.🛎️ Subscribe for more episodes: Handpan Voices on Spotify!
In this deeply heartfelt episode of Handpan Voices, I sit down with Nancy — a vibrant member of the Master the Handpan community — to explore her musical journey from Native American flutes to falling in love with handpans.Nancy shares how discovering the handpan in 2021 through Amy Naylor’s course completely transformed her musical path. What started as a background instrument for flute improvisation quickly became her main passion. We talk about her growing handpan collection (and her RAVs!), her love for the D Kurd and F# Low Pygmy scales, and the challenges — and joys — of practice.She also opens up courageously about her battle with skin cancer and how the handpan, the Master the Handpan courses, and the community — especially the Happy Hours — played a key role in helping her heal emotionally during recovery.Whether you’re a beginner, a curious listener, or someone looking for inspiration, Nancy’s story is a beautiful reminder of how music can be both a refuge and a source of empowerment.
In this heartwarming episode of Handpan Voices, I connect with the incredibly expressive Mar Loi — a handpan artist known for playing with deep emotion, passion, and joy. 🌊✨We explore her journey from the Canary Islands to Barcelona, from busking on the streets to performing on international stages. Mar opens up about the emotional connection she feels when she plays, how vulnerability became a strength through music, and why collaboration fuels her creativity. 🎶❤️She shares stories of:🌍 Performing in Switzerland and at India’s Vyan Festival🎻 Collaborating with Indian classical musicians🧘♀️ Creating handpan retreats and playing for yoga📱 Navigating the highs and lows of social media🙏 Her daily gratitude and meditation practice💬 Advice for new players and embracing the journeyWhether you’re a handpan player, fan, or just curious about music that comes from the heart — this conversation with Mar Loi is full of warmth, wisdom, and inspiration.
🎤 In this special episode of Handpan Voices, Lyndon shares the heartfelt journey of his C# Ysha Savita handpan, a deeply personal instrument crafted with love and generosity. His story takes us back to 2018, when a chance opportunity to work with Daryl of PanAmor Handpans in Devon led to the creation of this meaningful instrument. 🛠️🥁🎶 But this is more than just a handpan story—it’s a story of connection, music, and memory. Lyndon reflects on how his handpan became intertwined with a composition close to his heart, a piece called Blackbird 🖤🐦—originally written during a deeply personal moment while visiting his mother in hospice. What began as a tribute to transition and transformation has now become the opening piece for nearly all of Lyndon’s performances and workshops.🖼️ In this episode, we explore:✨ The inspiration behind his C# Ysha Savita handpan scale✨ How Daryl’s generosity made this instrument even more special✨ The touching story behind Blackbird and its role in Lyndon’s musical journey✨ The power of handpan in workshops, inspiring both adults and children alike💭 Whether it’s guiding people through imagination exercises or connecting deeply with audiences, Lyndon’s handpan carries a profound story of sound, emotion, and transformation.📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this incredible handpan journey! What emotions or images does Lyndon’s story bring up for you? Let us know in the comments! 💬👇
When Carina Trott first heard the handpan in Erfurt, she had no idea what it was—but she knew she had to find out.!After years of searching, she finally discovered the instrument and has since immersed herself in learning, performing, and connecting with the global handpan community.A huge part of her journey has been shaped by Master the Handpan, where monthly challenges have pushed her creativity, helped her grow as a player, and introduced her to a supportive network of musicians.In this episode, Carina shares:🔹 The first time she heard the handpan and how it captivated her 🔹 The long search to figure out what this mysterious instrument was 🔹 How Master the Handpan’s monthly challenges shaped her playing 🔹 The joy of blending storytelling with handpan music 🔹 Incorporating handpan into sound healing and therapyCarina’s journey is proof of how inspiring and transformative the handpan can be—especially within a strong community. 🎧 Listen now and be part of the Handpan Voices experience!
In this episode of Handpan Voices, I sit down with Jim Lo Presti, a musician whose journey started with the accordion and led him to the world of handpans and sound baths. Jim shares his musical roots growing up in an Italian-American community, his transition from drums to handpans, and how discovering tongue drums led him to his first handpan.We also discuss:🎵 His first encounter with the handpan and how it captivated him🥁 The shift from melodic instruments to percussion and back again🔄 Looping, electronics, and how he incorporates them into his music🧘♂️ How the handpan became a part of his mindfulness and sound healing practice🌍 The handpan community and his experiences with gatherings, including Spirit Voices and Pan Marco Gathering🎤 His connection with Amy Naylor, Dan Mulqueen, and the broader handpan worldJoin us as Jim shares his inspiring story of passion, creativity, and finding his tribe through music.
In this special episode of Handpan Voices, Amy Naylor shares the remarkable story behind her Desert Rose handpan, crafted by Elaia Handpans.Amy takes us on a journey from the moment she first encountered the instrument during her travels in Italy to the years of evolution that led to her receiving a custom-built version. Along the way, she recounts chance encounters, deep friendships within the handpan community, and the inspiration behind her composition Mandala Mind.This story beautifully captures the magic of the handpan world — where passion, craftsmanship, and serendipity create something truly special.🎶 Listen to Amy’s composition, Mandala Mind: https://youtu.be/H3pUAaIcPX4?si=bC01cESDvXb-Vc1j📌 Follow Amy Naylor: https://www.youtube.com/@UCRReqswTY59_ZL5MUjq68gA 🎙️ Discover more episodes of Handpan Voices: https://www.youtube.com/@handpanphil/podcasts✨ If you love handpan stories, subscribe for more inspiring tales from players around the world!
✨ In this episode of Handpan Voices, I chat with Lawanda Hardy, a beginner handpan player whose journey to discovering this unique instrument is heartfelt and inspiring.🎥 Lawanda shares how a video of Malte Marten playing on the beach introduced her to the handpan and sparked her interest. A key moment in her story came after being rear-ended on the freeway—a life event that shifted her mindset. Deciding to focus on living in the moment, she chose to get what she could afford and began her handpan journey.👩👧👦 As a mother of four, Lawanda reflects on how the handpan has brought mindfulness and joy into her life. She also discusses the role of the handpan community in encouraging her growth and creativity.🎧 Join us for an honest and heartfelt conversation about resilience, personal growth, and the simple joys of music.🎉 COUPON CODE ALERT! 🎉Are you a beginner handpan player thinking about joining Master the Handpan? Use my exclusive coupon code PHIL to get 10% off your first payment! 🥁✨
In this episode of Handpan Voices, we delve into the inspiring journey of Lennert De Schrijver, who transitioned from an 80-hour-a-week career as a doctor to embracing a simpler, more fulfilling life as a yoga teacher, organic gardener, and handpan enthusiast. Join us as Lennert discusses:🎸 Teaching himself electric guitar in high school.🩺 Balancing the demands of a medical career with personal growth.🌱 His passion for yoga, gardening, and music.🎶 The intuitive beauty of handpan playing and its role in his yoga classes.🌍 The supportive Master the Handpan community and its impact on his musical journey.Discover Lennert’s advice for playing intuitively, his thoughts on jamming with others, and how simplifying life can lead to deeper joy and creativity.
In this episode of Handpan Voices, we sit down with Anne Marie to explore her inspiring journey through music, from her early days playing flute and piano to her passion for percussion and DJing. Anne Marie shares her challenges with MS, her rediscovery of music through the handpan, and how she’s reconnecting with her creative roots by combining handpan playing with electronic music production.Highlights of this episode include:🎶 Anne Marie’s musical upbringing on the island of Curaçao🥁 Her transition from drumming and guitar to DJing and music production💪 Overcoming the challenges of MS and redefining her relationship with music✨ Discovering the handpan and falling in love with its soothing melodies🌟 Tips for choosing the right instrument and navigating the handpan communityJoin us for this inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from the handpan world!🎉 COUPON CODE ALERT! 🎉Are you a beginner handpan player thinking about joining Master the Handpan? Use my exclusive coupon code PHIL to get 10% off your first payment! 🥁✨https://www.masterthehandpan.com/
In this captivating conversation, I sit down with Marc Pfäffli, a passionate handpan player and long-time member of the handpan community. Marc shares his journey with the handpan, from his first encounter with the Hang in Paris over two decades ago to how it has become an integral part of his daily life today.🎶 Topics We Cover: • Marc’s first impressions of the handpan and how it resonated deeply with him. • How his background in Afro-Cuban and African percussion influenced his playing style. • The importance of practicing with a metronome for groove and precision. • Advice for beginners on choosing their first handpan and getting started. • The transformative power of the handpan and how it impacts players and listeners alike. • Marc’s thoughts on the Master the Handpan platform and the supportive online community known as “The Village.”Marc’s insights and stories will inspire both beginners and experienced players alike. Whether you’re a handpan enthusiast or new to this incredible instrument, this episode offers valuable tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and a glimpse into Marc’s deep connection with the handpan
Discover the inspiring story of @AmyNaylorMusic a globally respected handpan teacher, artist, and creator of modern mantras. In this exclusive interview, Amy opens up about her unique musical journey, creative philosophy, and the experiences that have shaped her as both a performer and educator.We discuss: • Her passion for free education and empowering others through her YouTube channel. • The profound experiences and collaborations she’s had around the world, from Australia to Germany. • How her musical philosophy blends folk, spirituality, and modern mantras. • Her vision for the future of handpan music, including its crossover with electronic and pop genres.Whether you’re a seasoned handpan player or new to the instrument, Amy’s stories and insights are sure to inspire and ignite your musical journey.✨ Topics Covered in This Interview: • Handpan community and festivals (Australia, New Zealand, Wild Naya, and more) • The transformative power of medicine music • Songwriting, collaboration, and her experiences leading workshops • The future of handpan in mainstream music🎶 Learn more about Amy Naylor: • YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCRReqswTY59_ • Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/amy_naylor_smiles/
In this episode of handpan voices , I have the privilege of interviewing the incredibly talented percussionist and handpan teacher, Rosie Bergonzi! Rosie recently made history as the world’s first handpan soloist to perform in front of a full orchestra for a concerto written specifically for the handpan. We dive into the story behind this groundbreaking performance, the challenges of preparing for such a monumental event, and Rosie’s other exciting handpan projects.Join us as we discuss everything from her musical journey to unique collaborations and future handpan innovations. This interview is packed with insights for handpan enthusiasts and music lovers alike!
Welcome to the first episode of Handpan Voices! Join Phil Begnett, a passionate beginner handpan player from the UK, as he embarks on a journey to share inspiring stories from the handpan community. In this introductory episode, discover the goals of Handpan Voices, the types of episodes to expect, and the unique blend of interviews with well-known players, makers, and community members. Explore the vibrant world of handpans, and connect with fellow enthusiasts through Phil’s heartfelt storytelling