Harmonic Care
We welcome you to our Schlagwerk Harmonic Art family. It's important to note that understanding musical theory or experience is not required to play the Harmonic. When tuned to our specific scale, there are no "wrong notes" that sound "out of melody" - the handpan can be played anywhere and in any position. This versatility allows the musician to be guided by their internal inspiration and emotional connection with the soul of the Harmonic. The Harmonic Art handpan brings this fantastic gift of music into the hands of anyone. All it takes is a simple tap of the notes to produce a beautiful, harmonious sound.
Schlagwerk Harmonic Art handpan and Log Drum - Duet
Max Gerwien & Claudio Spieler
Following these care recommendations will ensure the Harmonic remains in perfect shape for you to enjoy. The Harmonic is not only a musical instrument, but also one of a kind piece of art. Make sure to read the instructions carefully before you start enjoying the Harmonic.
This musical instrument is classified as a sound sculpture designed to be played with the fingers and cannot be played as a traditional drum. Therefore, do not use sticks, drumsticks, or other tools to perform with the Harmonic. We recommend using the fingertips softly, which will be enough to create tones from the instrument. The Harmonic feels quite "alive" and responsive when played gently and delicately.
The difference between the Inpex (inward) and Apex (outward) dimple on the center note is that the Inpex is more integrated with the other notes' timbre on the instrument. There is a more harmonic presence when striking the flat tone field around the dimple. By hitting the Inpex dimple, the more fundamental tone will be heard, which is the same effect found in the Apex dimple.
Daniel is playing with a Harmonic and demonstrating the proper way to touch the steel
Claudio is playing with a Harmonic while being recorded with a super-cardioid microphone
When recording with the Harmonic, we recommend a condenser microphone, which reduces noise and has a wide frequency response for remarkable sound quality. For the best quality recording notes from the bottom shell, we recommend using at least an additional microphone that points from the ground to the bottom shell notes. You could also use two microphones on each side at a similar height to the outer diameter flange and pointing towards the instrument.
Do Not: Expose the Harmonic to extremely high or low temperatures, or direct sunlight. Drop the Harmonic from your lap or at any height. Store anything inside the Harmonic inner chamber. Hit the Harmonic inner or outer surface with any hard objects.
Always place the Protection Cover on the Harmonic playing surfaces when stored. The Protection Cover does not protect the outer rim of the Harmonic but only the playing surface. The top and bottom half-shells are joined by specialized thermal welding, which helps the instrument’s sound; therefore, be careful and avoid any vertical external shocks when the Harmonic is inside or outside the Soft Backpack.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Schlagwerk Harmonic Master musical instruments are handcrafted from ultra-strong alloy Vibra Steel, selected for its maximum durability, natural corrosion protection and for providing a better, clear ceramic sound instrument. For this reason, maintenance with oil is NOT necessary. The Harmonic Master is entirely maintenance-free. Enjoy your high-quality Schlagwerk Harmonic Art handpan!
Harmonic Master 12
Harmonic Master 15
All who already have a Harmonic or wish to get one, feel free to contact us at any time. We will be happy to provide you with customer service support for our musical instruments.
If you have any questions that are not covered here or any doubts about the instructions listed above, please contact us and we will be glad to answer your questions. Our team is grateful to be part of this magical world, and we wish you a blessed and prosperous musical future.
