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Learn to Play Handpan

A Complete, Honest Guide for Beginners

The handpan is still a relatively young instrument in India, and one of the most common questions new players ask is simple:

“Where can I learn to play the handpan in India?”

Unlike guitar or piano, there are no widespread music schools, standard syllabi, or fixed examination paths for handpan. Learning happens through a combination of listening, touch, rhythm, and guided exploration. The good news is that India now has a growing community of experienced players and teachers who offer meaningful ways to learn — both online and in person.

This page is a practical, unbiased guide to learning the handpan in India: what options exist, where to start, and how to choose what’s right for you.

Understanding How the Handpan Is Learned

Before listing teachers or platforms, it helps to understand how the handpan is typically learned.

The handpan is:

  • Played with bare hands

  • Highly responsive to touch and dynamics

  • Rooted in rhythm, listening, and feel rather than notation

Most players learn through:

  • Guided listening and imitation

  • Structured rhythm exercises

  • Exploration within a scale

  • Gradual development of flow and musical phrasing

Because of this, good teachers focus less on “songs” and more on technique, awareness, and consistency.

Online Handpan Learning (Best for Getting Started)

For many beginners in India, online learning is the most accessible and effective first step.

Video-Based Learning

Online tutorials are especially useful for:

  • Understanding basic hand technique and Learning posture and hand position

  • Developing timing and rhythm while practicing consistently at home

Well-structured video courses allow you to:

  • Pause and repeat exercises and learn at your own pace

  • Build confidence before playing with others

Online learning works best when combined a quiet practice routine, regular listening to handpan music and occasional feedback from a teacher or experienced player

🎥 Video Tutorials – Amy Naylor

Ideal for beginners starting at home. A well-structured collection of video tutorials covering:

  • Basic technique
  • Hand position and touch
  • Rhythm, flow, and musicality

🌐 Video Tutorials – Master The Handpan

Best for structured, long-term learning.. A comprehensive online learning platform with:

  • Progressive lessons
  • Exercises and compositions
  • Guidance for different skill levels

In-Person Classes (India)

As the handpan community in India grows, in-person learning options are becoming more available, especially in cities with strong music, yoga, or alternative arts communities.

📍 Bangalore

Bangalore currently has one of the most active handpan learning scenes in India.

You’ll find:

  • Group classes focused on rhythm and flow and individual sessions for technique correction

  • Musically informed teachers with experience in percussion, meditation, or world music

Bangalore is a good place to learn if you value consistent weekly classes, a structured learning environment and playing with other students

  • Ojas Yoga Academy
    Instructor: Yogabandhu Prashant @ +91 9538681408
    Focus on meditative playing, rhythm, and musical depth.
  • Studio Beat Roots
    Instructor: Ganesh @
    Contemporary rhythm-based approach and group sessions.

📍 Rishikesh

Rishikesh offers a very different learning atmosphere.

Handpan learning here is often:

  • Immersive rather than academic as it is connected to breath, movement, and listening

  • Less about technique drills, more about musical presence

This environment suits learners who prefer intuitive exploration, are comfortable learning through observation and repetition and enjoy retreat-style or immersive experiences.

📍 Goa

Goa has one of the most vibrant handpan communities in India.

Learning here often happens through:

  • Workshops/ Group jams

  • Short-term courses/ one-on-one sessions with touring musicians

Goa is ideal if you learn well through collaboration, enjoy musical communities and are open to non-linear learning paths.

📍 Pune

Pune has a smaller but emerging handpan scene.

Teaching here often emphasizes:

  • Technique, Groove and timing

  • Musical discipline

This suits learners who prefer structured progression and want focused skill development.

 

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