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<h1>Meet the Visionaries: The Founders of PANArt</h1>
<p>PANArt Hangbau AG, based in Bern, Switzerland, is renowned for its innovative and symbolic contribution to the world of musical instruments. Renowned for creating the Hang, PANArt has revolutionized perceptions of music and acoustics. At the heart of this musical revolution are two extraordinary individuals: Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer. Their dedication, creativity, and passion for exploring the boundaries of sound have left an indelible mark on the world of music.</p>
<h2>The Early Days</h2>
<p>Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, both natives of Berne, Switzerland, embarked on a journey in the early 1990s that would eventually lead to the creation of the Hang. Both shared a deep passion for music and a keen interest in exploring alternative musical expressions beyond the conventional scene. Felix, with his background in engineering and acoustics, teamed up with Sabina, who possessed an intimate understanding of the cultural and artistic aspects of music.</p>
<p>The duo’s encounter with different musical traditions from around the world sparked a shared interest in steel pan instruments originating from Trinidad and Tobago. The steel pan's unique sound inspired Felix and Sabina to delve into its construction and potentials, ultimately paving the way for their collaborative venture, PANArt.</p>
<h2>The Birth of PANArt</h2>
<p>By 1993, Felix and Sabina had founded PANArt, focusing initially on crafting traditional steel pans. However, their persistent search for an evolutionary sound led them down an ambitious path. Engaging in copious experiments with different scales and tunings, they explored the acoustic properties, dreaming of creating a novel instrument that could resonate as both melodic and rhythmic.</p>
<p>The turning point came with the introduction of the “Pang” sheet metal, which gave birth to a new scale of harmonic resonance. This material, along with countless hours of experimenation, laid the foundation for the Hang, a completely new instrument that combined aspects of the steel pan, gongs, bells, and other resonant percussive sounds.</p>
<h2>Creating the Hang</h2>
<p>In 2000, after years of research and development, Felix and Sabina introduced the Hang (pronounced “hung” or “hong”), a UFO-shaped instrument that produces ethereal sounds. Each Hang consists of two half-shells of hardened steel, which are carefully crafted and tuned to create a unique soundscape that integrates melody and rhythm seamlessly.</p>
<p>The Hang presented a new interaction with sound and music, drawing fascinated musicians and audiences alike. Its novel design offers a tactile and intimate experience, allowing players to engage with the instrument on a personal level, exploring its diverse tonal possibilities.</p>
<h2>The Philosophical Approach</h2>
<p>PANArt, under the guidance of Felix and Sabina, emphasizes a unique philosophical approach to music and instrument creation. Their philosophy revolves around the understanding that music is not just a collection of notes, but an essence that invokes emotional and spiritual resonances. They aim to foster a connection between the player and the instrument, allowing for a meditative interaction that transcends traditional musical boundaries.</p>
<p>The creation of each Hang is intimately tied to these principles. Felix and Sabina meticulously handcraft each instrument to ensure its integrity and resonance, treating each Hang as a living entity that can evolve and grow with the player over time. This holistic approach amplifies the relationship between the musician and the instrument, promoting a deeper level of artistic expression and personal reflection.</p>
<h2>Impact on the Musical World</h2>
<p>The introduction of the Hang had a significant impact on the global music scene. Musicians from various genres, including jazz, classical, and world music, integrated the Hang into their compositions and performances. The instrument's distinctive sound offered artists new creative possibilities, contributing profoundly to contemporary music.</p>
<p>Moreover, the Hang has played a pivotal role in the development of the handpan, a new family of instruments inspired by the Hang’s design and acoustics. This impact on the musical world reflects Felix and Sabina's legacy, exemplifying how innovation and passion can inspire entire generations of musicians and instrument makers.</p>
<h2>Continuing the Legacy</h2>
<p>As PANArt evolves, Felix and Sabina remain faithful to their mission—exploring the frontiers of sound while retaining the foundation of their musical philosophy. They continue to share their discoveries with musicians worldwide, perpetuating the spirit of creativity and innovation. Their work has created a lineage that encourages musical exploration and redefines how we perceive sound, reinforcing their legacy as visionary pioneers in the world of music.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>PANArt’s story is one of passion, dedication, and visionary brilliance. Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer have not only crafted a remarkable musical instrument in the Hang but have also inspired a beautiful new way to experience music. Their tireless exploration of acoustics and commitment to their craft have had a profound impact on the world of music, both present and future.</p>
<p>Through their work, they have established a new path for musicians, guided by a sound that speaks not just to the ears but to the soul. Felix and Sabina's journey exemplifies the power of vision and collaboration in creating something uniquely transformative, echoing across cultural and musical landscapes worldwide.</p>
<h3>FAQs</h3>
<h3>1. What is the Hang by PANArt?</h3>
<p>The Hang is a unique musical instrument created by PANArt founders Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer. It is made of two half-shells of hardened steel shaped like an UFO and produces serene, ethereal sounds. It merges melody and rhythm in a seamless experience, offering musicians an intimate way to explore sound.</p>
<h3>2. How did Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer develop the Hang?</h3>
<p>Felix and Sabina developed the Hang after extensive research and experimentation with steelpan instruments. They used a special material called “Pang” sheet metal and employed expert craftsmanship to create their innovative instrument, guided by a philosophy that emphasizes the emotional and spiritual essence of music.</p>
<h3>3. What is PANArt’s approach to music?</h3>
<p>PANArt's approach to music stresses the importance of connection between the musician and the instrument. Their philosophy regards music as an emotional and spiritual expression, and they build each Hang with a deep understanding of its acoustic properties, creating instruments that resonate with the player personally.</p>
<h3>4. Has the Hang influenced other musical instruments?</h3>
<p>Yes, the Hang has significantly influenced the development of handpans, a new family of instruments inspired by its design. The Hang’s introduction has expanded the sound palette available to musicians and has inspired the creation of many similar instruments worldwide.</p>
<h3>5. How can I learn to play the Hang?</h3>
<p>Learning to play the Hang can be a personal and explorative journey, as the instrument encourages intuitive and tactile playing methods. Many resources, including tutorials and workshops, are available online and in-person, hosted by experienced players who offer insights into techniques and sound exploration.</p>
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</html>Meet the Visionaries: The Founders of PANArt
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