#waples

Daniel Waples Hang Player

      Daniel Waples plays the hang drum, a relatively new instrument (12 years old) that is handcrafted by only one company in the world. Also known as a Hang or HangPan, there are no teachers of this…

We are so excited to have Daniel Waples, the amazing Hang drum player, on board with Songeist. We want to highlight all sorts of different musical genres and talents here on the Songeist blog, and Daniel is an example of someone who is doing something totally original and creative.  It is his aim to “travel the world, to inspire smiles, induce relaxation and promote the art he is passionate about, while sharing good food and collaborating with a vast array of artists wherever possible.”

Dan Warples playing & his Hang

It is his aim to “travel the world, to inspire smiles, induce relaxation and promote the art he is passionate about, while sharing good food and collaborating with a vast array of artists wherever possible.”

His instrument, the Hang drum, is essentially a steel drum, but incorporates a huge array of design qualities from international instruments from the Gamalan instruments of Indonesia to the South Indian Ghatam, to the African Udo and other gongs, bells and wind chimes from around the world. People often think it’s an ancient instrument, with roots in ancient culture. Actually, it’s very contemporary, with the first Hang drum created in 2000.  Dan is one of the world’s leading Hang players, and has been performing with his own one since 2006. He has developed his own Hang style, which percussionists from around the world look to for inspiration.  Check out his website www.hanginbalance.com.

He says he “is dedicated to collaborating, recording and traveling with as many individuals and collectives as possible, whilst delivering good vibes and inspiring wide smiles.”
 To date, Daniel has independently released three albums and two EPs, with a fourth album soon to be released. You can listen to his track ‘Midnite’ on Songeist NOW!  Take a look at these amazing videos of Dan and his Hang: