Why we’re hung up on the Hang
Haven't heard of the Hang? It’s a melodic drum that creates a haunting tone and here’s why we love it:
1. The sound is so versatile
It varies between a steel drum, a harp and bells and is generally played with the hands and fingers.
Learn to play the Hang with Evelyn Glennie
Dame Evelyn Glennie gives us a lesson in the Hang.
2. It’s extremely cool
It looks like a cross between a wok and a flying saucer and is played by the sort of people who look genuinely good in baggy beanie hats.
3. It makes a truly enchanting sound
Listeners frequently say it produces a trance-like state. One man claims it helped him relax enough to make a material difference to his heart condition. Trying to get hold of one however is likely to give you cardiac problems. (See point 6.)
Manu Delago plays Mono Desire on the Hang
Hang player Manu Delago performs his piece, Mono Desire, for Radio 4.
4. It's made with a personal touch
The inventors of the Hang, Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, have a little workshop in Bern. The first generation of Hangs were sold with little notes inside giving the number of the instrument and either Felix or Sabina’s signature.
5. Like all the best things, you can’t just buy one
Very few were made. Prospective owners had to apply in writing because emails were not allowed. If applicants were deemed acceptable, they were then invited to the Bern workshop to pick up their Hang. Second hand Hangs can fetch over $10,000 on Ebay.
6. It has an aura of mystery about it
Felix and Sabina wrote that playing the Hang 'can lead to a form of freedom, an intimate conversation. Thoughtless use can weaken a person.'
7. It's rare
In the grand tradition of always leaving them wanting more, production of Hangs has ceased entirely as Felix and Sabina are now concentrating on making their new instrument, the Gubal. Stand by for the rush...
Do say: 'Oh a Hang! Awesome. What number is yours?'
Don’t say: 'Cool! Are we having stir-fry? I’m starving.'
