The Taopan Mini Handpans in 46cm are an ongoing learning task.
It started with having the tools for the bowls built.
Zachary from Leaf Soundsculptures and I had a 2-year test of patience with the metal companies. Deadlines could not be met, processes did not work as planned. It was a constant back and forth. It wasn’t anyone’s fault, but it was turbulent. Every week it feels like a different problem. But we wanted to have our own material, that was the deep desire. At some point it succeeded.
I thought, “Yay, now I can fulfill my dreams, little mini handpans!” … but I had underestimated the size. So many frequencies meet in such a small space. I don’t know how many I crushed, gave away, etc. at the beginning.
There were times when I wanted to give up this greatness completely. I’m serious. But I’m also a stubborn, that’s what happens. At some point, the setbacks became fewer.
Zachary has always encouraged me to continue with the size. It got better bit by bit. Instruments were created that I would have liked to keep all. That’s always a good sign. I could hear them with professional players at concerts, I took them with me on trips. As a musician, I am enthusiastic about the flexibility.
It would take some time until the next step.
Depth pans at 46cm. If you had asked me a few months ago if that was possible … I would have said: No.
But Zachary said to me: yes, that’s possible. I believed him.
Fortunately 😉
Here the first 46 with a Bb2 in the middle. The work continues. Set the next goal …
Notes: Bb2 / Bb3 C4 C#4 D#4 F4 F#4 Bb4 C#5
