Hand steel drum

Types of Hand Steel Drums

A hand steel drum or steel tongue drum is a percussion musical instrument that produces soothing and melodic sounds. It is played with the hands or mallets and is popular for its easy playability, even by beginners. The instrument comes in different types and models, each with unique sound and tuning. Here are the main types of hand steel drums:

• Pan Drums

  Pan drums are also referred to as steel pans. They are the first type of steel drum ever created and originated from Trinidad and Tobago. They are made from oil drums and have different sized concave pans of varying diameter and depth. The pans are tuned to different notes and arranged in a circular or hemispherical shape. When struck with mallets, the pans produce distinct melodic and harmonic sounds. Larger pans produce lower notes and deeper sounds, while smaller pans produce higher notes. Steel pan drums come in different types, including:

  • Tenor Pan: This is the smallest and highest-pitched pan among the pans. It is played by professional steel pan players and covers a range of three octaves.
  • Double Second Pan: It consists of two pans tuned to the second and third harmonics of the fundamental frequency. It produces a rich, harmonic sound and is commonly used in ensembles.
  • Double Tenor Pan: It consists of two sets of pans and has a higher pitch than the tenor pans. It has a sweet and melodic sound, making it ideal for playing melodies.
  • Cello Pan: This pan is larger than the double seconds and has a lower pitch. It is tuned to a range of notes, producing a deep and melodic sound.
  • Bass Pan: This is the largest and lowest-pitched pan. It produces deep and rhythmic sounds that provide the foundation for other pans in an ensemble.

• Tongue Drums

  Hand pan drums, or tongue drums, are modern percussion instruments created from a propane tank. They have varying numbers of tongues or slits tuned to different notes. The tongues are struck with mallets or hands, producing a calm and meditative sound. The number of tongues ranges from 8 to 14 or more, and each tongue is tuned to a specific note. The arrangement of the tongues can be in a circular or flat pattern. The tongues are cut and tuned to produce different musical scales, including the D Major scale, Zen scale, and Aeolian scale. The D Major scale tongue drum is the most common and has a cheerful and uplifting sound. The drums with more tongues offer a wider range of notes and allow players to explore more complex melodies and musical scales.

• Electric Steel Drums

  The electric steel drums combine traditional steelpan technology with modern electronic and digital components. They consist of an electric pickup or microphone system that amplifies the sound of the pans. The pans are made of stainless steel or nickel-plated steel to resist tarnishing and corrosion. The drums also have an electronic control unit that allows players to adjust the volume, tone, and effects of the sound. The electric steel drum is versatile and can be used in various music genres, including jazz, rock, and electronic music. It offers a unique and innovative sound that blends traditional and modern elements.

Scenarios of Hand Steel Drums

Hand steel drums are versatile musical instruments used in various scenarios and settings. Some of the usage scenarios include:

• Live Performances: The hand steel drum is often used in live performances by solo artists, bands, and even orchestras. It adds a unique and captivating sound to the music that can engage and entertain the audience. The drums are popular in both small and large-scale performances, including concerts, festivals, and even local gigs.
• Music Festivals: Hand steel drums have become a staple at music festivals. They are often featured on stages, jamming sessions, and even workshops. Its distinctive sound is loved by people of all ages, making it a perfect fit for festival environments. This provides an opportunity for musicians to showcase their skills and for festival-goers to experience the beauty of this instrument live.
• Educational Settings: The drums are used in music education and workshops where students can learn about its history, playing techniques, and cultural significance. It offers a hands-on learning experience that is both enjoyable and informative. Additionally, students can benefit from understanding different musical styles and rhythms, making them more well-rounded musicians.
• Healing and Therapy Sessions: The hand steel drum is often used in healing and therapy sessions. Its soothing and calming sound can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. People are encouraged to express their emotions through music, making it a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery. This provides a therapeutic and healing atmosphere for both the therapist and patient.
• Corporate Events and Functions: Hand steel drums are used at corporate events, parties, and functions. They provide a lively and cheerful atmosphere, encouraging guests to mingle and have fun. The instrument is often used as background music or feature performances, adding a touch of elegance and excitement to the event.
• Cultural and Community Events: The drums are used in cultural festivals, parades, and community gatherings where it represents its roots and traditions. They bring people together and create a sense of belonging and pride in their culture. Additionally, the hand steel drum is often used in collaboration with other cultural instruments, creating a beautiful fusion of music and traditions.

How to Choose Hand Steel Drums

When purchasing hand steel drums for resale, there are various factors business owners should consider to ensure they stock quality products that will satisfy their customers' needs. Below are some of them.

• Material

  Hand steel drums are made from different materials, which include stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steel. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, drums made from stainless steel have longevity and corrosion resistance. On the other hand, carbon steel drums have an excellent sound but require coating to protect them from rust. Buyers should get drums made from quality materials to offer customers good options.

• Tone and Sound Quality

  The primary reason customers purchase hand steel drums is the quality of the sound they produce. Business owners should consider the drum's tone and the harmonics in different notes. Also, they should be aware that different drums have varying sound qualities. For example, the longer drums have deeper tones, while the shorter ones produce higher tones. Still, the sound varies depending on the material and size of the drum. Ideally, buyers should get drums with a balanced tone and good sustain to offer their customers quality options.

• Drum Size and Scale

  Hand steel drums come in different sizes, which affect their pitch and depth of sound. Larger drums have a deeper tone and are suitable for beginners and intermediate players. Conversely, smaller drums have a higher tone and are easy to carry and play. Buyers should get drums in various sizes to cater to different customers' preferences.

• Playability and Comfort

  Business owners should consider how easy to play the hand steel drum is. Drums with sharp rims or edges are uncomfortable to play. Also, those with poorly positioned notes or sound slots are difficult to reach. Drums with ergonomic design and proper spacing between the notes are more comfortable to play. Therefore, buyers should look for drums that offer players comfort.

• Durability and Build Quality

  Hand steel drums are a huge investment, and customers expect them to last many years. In this regard, business owners should pay close attention to the build quality of the drums they intend to purchase. They should check the finishing of the drums and whether there is any visible imperfection that can lead to damage. Also, they should ensure the drum has a sturdy frame and construction. A well-built drum can withstand regular playing and transportation.

Function, Feature, and Design of Hand Steel Drum

The hand steel drum has different functions, features, and designs depending on its use. Here are some of them:

Features and Functions

• Material

  Handpan drums are made from high-quality steel, which enhances their durability and resistance to rust. The steel is carefully treated to allow the drum to produce a rich and long-lasting sound. The material's thickness and texture are also key elements that affect the drum's tonal quality and sensitivity.

• Tuning

  Tuning a hand steel drum is a precise and delicate process that creates a harmonious and melodic sound. Each drum has a unique sound and scale, depending on its tuning. The center note is often marked and is the most prominent note of the drum. The tuned notes around the center vary in scale and can be used for different musical applications.

• Ergonomics

  The hand steel drum is designed to be comfortable and easy to play. It is usually placed on the lap or a stand, allowing the player to reach all the notes easily. The curved shape of the drum also fits well with the player's body, providing a natural and comfortable playing position.

Design

• Number of Notes

  The number of notes on a handpan can vary, typically ranging from 8 to 20. The 10-inch handpan drum often has around 8 to 10 notes, while larger models may have up to 20 notes. The arrangement of the notes is carefully designed to create a balanced and harmonious scale. Drums with more notes offer a wider range of tones and musical possibilities.

• Visual Aesthetics

  Handpan drums are visually appealing, with intricate designs and patterns. The center note is often larger and more prominent, drawing attention to the drum's aesthetic design. The combination of the polished steel and the tuning marks creates a visually stunning instrument that is as beautiful to look at as it is to hear.

Q & A

Q1. What is the difference between a handpan and a steel drum?

A1. A handpan and a steel drum are two different musical instruments. A steel drum is played using mallets, while a handpan is played using hands. Also, a handpan has a central note and around 8-20 tone fields, whereas a steel drum has many notes spread around its surface.

Q2. Can the hand steel drum be considered a portable instrument?

A2. The hand steel drum is considered a portable instrument since it is lightweight and small. Thus, it can be carried anywhere in a case or bag.

Q3. What makes the hand steel drum easy to play?

A3. The hand steel drum is easy to play because its tone fields are arranged ergonomically. Also, the instrument has pre-tuned notes, making it easy for players to explore different rhythms and melodies.

Q4. What is the lifespan of a hand steel drum?

A4. The lifespan of a hand steel drum varies depending on how the player takes care of it. Generally, the lifespan of a hand steel drum is 10 years or more. With proper care and maintenance, the instrument can last for several decades.