Which course is best for my current level?
Choosing the right course can make all the difference in your progress. At Master the Handpan, our courses are designed to meet you exactly where you are, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your musical voice.
Use this guide to find the course that fits your current level and goals:
Determine your level
🟢 I’m a complete beginner
You’re here if:
- You’ve just bought (or are about to buy) a handpan
- You don’t or have a limited musical background
- You want clear guidance, without getting overwhelmed
- Your goal is to feel comfortable with your instrument
Start with:
The Fundamentals - like Essentials for beginners with David Charrier or Level 1 - Beginner with David Kuckherrman
These courses focus on:
- Basic hand position and touch
- Playing clean, relaxed notes
- Simple rhythms and patterns
- Building confidence and consistency
🟡 I’ve been playing a bit (beginner → intermediate)
You’re here if:
- You can play a few patterns or songs
- You feel stuck repeating the same ideas
- You want to sound more musical and fluid
- Your goal is to move from “exercises” to actual music
Start with:
The Fundamentals - like Essentials for beginners with David Charrier or Level 1 - Beginner with David Kuckhermann
Song-based courses - like 8 Iconic Songs for the D Kurd or The Handpan Cookbook
These courses help you:
- Improve groove and timing
- Understand how patterns fit together
- Learn real, musical pieces (not just exercises)
- Start developing flow
🔵 I’m an intermediate player
You’re here if:
- You’re comfortable with your instrument
- You want more expression, dynamics, and creativity
- You’re curious about composition, feel, and musical choices
- Your goal is to sound like you, not just someone repeating patterns.
Start with:
The Fundamentals - like Level 2 - Intermediate with David Kuckhermann or Go Further for intermediate with David Charrier
Masterclasses from our world renown teachers - like Malte Martin, Amy Naylor, Alexander Mercks, Mar Loi, and more!
Creative & musicality-focused courses - like Composition on the Handpan,
You'll work on:
- Advanced grooves and textures
- Musical phrasing and dynamics
- Artist-specific approaches and inspiration
- Making your playing more personal
🟣 I’m advanced (or very curious 😄)
You’re here if:
- You play confidently and regularly
- You’re interested in sound, recording, or deeper musical concepts
- You want to refine details and explore new dimensions.
- Your goal is to deepen your artistry
Start with:
The Fundamentals - like Level 3 - Advanced with David Kuckhermann
Advanced Masterclasses from our world renown teachers - like Kabeção, Kirill Osherov, Nadishana, Michaël Akortia, and more!
You'll work on:
- Musical intention and refinement
- High-level concepts you can grow into over time
Use Pathways
If you're subscribed to the Academy, we have introduced the Pathways. These very special lessons take material from different courses on a specific topic and put them together in a comprehensive form. By watching different lessons from different Masterclasses, you can determine which teacher/style best connects with you!
We are working on new Pathways in 2026 so that everyone can find the content they need.
Every player learns at their own pace, and has their own gaps and strengths. The Academy allows you to freely explore through all these different courses to find the best material that will help you improve.
Updated on: 05/02/2026
Thank you!
