Music has a magical way of resonating with our emotions, painting vibrant canvases of sound that can elicit joy, serenity, and even a sense of transcendence. In the rich tapestry of global music, certain inventors and artists emerge as pivotal creators, shaping new forms of artistic expression. One such luminary is Felix Rohner, a Swiss musician and instrument maker whose innovative spirit gave birth to some of the most unique and ethereal sounds known today. Felix Rohner, along with his partner Sabina Schärer, co-created the Hang, a hand-played steel instrument that has captivated musicians and listeners around the world.
A Serendipitous Beginning
Felix Rohner’s journey into the realm of musical invention began in the 1980s when he started making steelpans in Switzerland. The steelpan, traditionally from Trinidad and Tobago, enchanted Rohner with its lush, resonant tones. His deep appreciation for the instrument’s sound forged a desire to innovate and experiment with steel as a medium for music.
Rohner’s steelpan work laid the foundation for what would eventually become a revolutionary leap in musical craftsmanship. Teaming up with Sabina Schärer, an accomplished musician herself, the duo embarked on a journey to explore new possibilities. Trades and travels allowed them to draw inspiration from various cultural instruments, such as the Indonesian Gamelan and the Indian Ghatam, enriching their understanding and vision for creating something truly groundbreaking.
The Birth of the Hang
In the late 1990s, the collaboration between Rohner and Schärer culminated in the creation of the Hang (pronounced ‘hung’), a new type of percussion instrument. The Hang’s name derives from the Bernese German word for “hand,” indicating its defining characteristic – it is played using the hands, creating a soft, warm, and melodic sound that is distinct from the more percussive steelpan.
The Hang is crafted from two deep-drawn, nitrided steel hemispheres glued together to form a hollow, UFO-like shape. The top side, known as the Ding, features a central dome surrounded by a circle of seven or eight tone fields each having its unique pitch. The bottom side, called the Gu, has an opening at the center which resonates the sound. What sets the Hang apart is its tuning process and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in shaping each tone field to produce a precise and harmonious note.
A Journey Through Sound
The Hang’s mesmerizing sound has drawn comparisons to various otherworldly soundscapes, blending rhythmic patterns with melodic nuance. Its sonic palette is incredibly versatile, captivating solo performances, and complementing various musical genres from ambient and world music to modern classical compositions.
Artists who play the Hang often describe an intimate connection with the instrument, as it responds sensitively to the subtleties of touch and rhythm. This intimate connection fosters a meditative playing experience, inviting both the player and the listener to immerse themselves in the moment. The tactile interaction with metal, combined with the instrument’s harmonics, creates a sound journey that is as much felt as it is heard, bridging the gap between music and mindfulness.
The Hang has inspired a global community of musicians and enthusiasts captivated by its unique sound. This community continues to grow, sharing techniques, compositions, and performances, and perpetuating the innovative spirit that Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer imbued in their creation.
The Evolution Continues
While the original Hang instrument is no longer in production, Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer have not ceased their quest for innovation. Their company, PANArt, has continued to develop new instruments, further exploring the potential of Pang, the raw material mixture they devised for tuning their instruments. These new endeavors include the Gubal, the Hang Gudu, and other creations that push the boundaries of their initial concept.
Each new instrument retains the signature characteristics of the Hang, with an emphasis on harmonious tuning, tactile playability, and a deeply resonant sound. The evolution of Rohner’s instruments is a testament to his perpetual curiosity and commitment to crafting musical experiences that touch the soul.
Impact and Legacy
Felix Rohner’s contributions to the world of music extend far beyond the creation of the Hang. His work has sparked new avenues of exploration for contemporary musicians and instrument makers. The Hang’s introduction to the music world has broadened the sonic landscape, inviting artists to experiment and incorporate its unique tone into diverse musical contexts.
Moreover, Rohner and Schärer’s approach to instrument making— fusing traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques—serves as a model for sustainable artistry. Their dedication to creating instruments by hand and focusing on quality over mass production underscores a philosophy that values artistic integrity and mindful musicality.
Felix Rohner’s legacy is a harmonious blend of innovation, artistry, and the pursuit of sonic beauty. His instruments have created a bridge between different musical traditions, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience through the universal language of music.
Conclusion
In the melodic world of Felix Rohner, steel becomes more than mere metal—it transforms into a medium of expression, connection, and transcendence. Through the creation of the Hang and other instruments, Rohner has left an indelible mark on the global music scene, inspiring countless musicians to explore new textures and expressions of sound. His work with Sabina Schärer has not only expanded the boundaries of what musical instruments can be but also deepened our appreciation for the intricate dance between material, craft, and musicality. In a world brimming with noise, the harmonious tones of Rohner’s creations offer a serene and meditative escape, inviting all who listen to find harmony within.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Hang instrument?
The Hang is a hand-played steel instrument invented by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer. It consists of two hemispheres glued together, with the top side featuring tone fields that produce melodic sounds when struck with the hands. It is known for its ethereal and harmonious tones.
2. How is the Hang different from a steelpan?
While both the Hang and the steelpan are made of steel, the Hang is designed to be played with the hands rather than mallets. This allows for a broader range of expressive techniques and produces a softer, more melodic sound compared to the more percussive nature of the steelpan.
3. Is the Hang still in production?
No, the original Hang is no longer in production. However, Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer continue to create new instruments through their company PANArt, exploring further innovations in steel-based musical instruments.
4. What inspired Felix Rohner to create the Hang?
Felix Rohner was inspired by his experience making steelpans and his exposure to various cultural instruments, such as the Indonesian Gamelan and the Indian Ghatam. Together with Sabina Schärer, he sought to create an instrument that combined rhythmic and melodic elements in a unique and harmonious way.
5. How has the Hang impacted the music world?
The Hang has inspired a global community of musicians and enthusiasts, broadening the sonic landscape and encouraging new forms of musical expression. Its unique sound and tactile playability have made it a beloved instrument in various genres, from ambient and world music to contemporary compositions.
