Welcome TO Isthmus Instruments

Listen to our handpan videos and check out our Webstore

About Us

Isthmus Instruments was founded in 2013 by Jenny Robinson. Isthmus creates musical instruments out of steel, most widely described as “Handpans”. Our mission is to build beautiful instruments and grow our community.

Meet the team

Our Instruments

Every instrument we make is hand-built. Through theoretical research and practical experimentation, Isthmus Instruments has developed an instrument-building process that can turn a simple sheet of metal into an acoustic work of art.

Our Instruments

Featured Videos

Our popular E SayByeD scale.

Annual handpan gathering in Madison, WI.

Watch more videos

our mission

Is to connect people to instruments they truly love.

in action

visit us at an upcoming event Or learn more with our blog

Buy a Handpan Now

We produce a limited number of new instruments every month for immediate purchase, as handpan flash sales. You can purchase any instrument available on our webstore and soon be making music! Make sure to visit our handpan shop often to stay updated on new scales we may offer every month.

Shop

Custom instrument order

Would you like to design your own, custom-built instrument? We can help with that. We will happily guide you through any questions you may have. As well as build the scale, color & artwork of your choosing. If you don't see exactly what you want today in our webstore - this is the fastest way to get your dream instrument. Click below to begin.

Custom Handpan

testimonials

Reviews

“Outstanding experience from beginning to end. The whole process was attentive, professional, prompt and flawless. I just purchased 2 B-Ursa handpans and the craftsmanship is fabulous. It was clear from the first playing that Jenny and her team poured their passion and expertise into building and tuning these instruments. They sound amazing, individually and together. I couldn't be happier.”

- Janet P.

“I can't express how impressed I am with Isthmus. Everything about them is solid. The handpan is truly a quality instrument with beautiful detail, tone and craftsmanship. The follow-up after purchase has been kind and supportive. If you are on the fence about buying a handpan, go for it...you will certainly be pleased.”

-Maggi Q.

“Have you ever received something that turned out to be far more incredible than you ever anticipated? The C Aegean Isthmus handpan totally falls into that category for me. The instrument is a real piece of art that’s made with exquisite craftsmanship. I can’t describe the meditative feeling I get while playing it. I just kind of zone out and get caught up in the music and tones. I sincerely cannot find a negative to this joyful addition to my home. If I’m not playing it, my ten year old son is playing it. I think this is by far one of the best purchases I’ve made in a very long time. I wish I could find the words to describe how much I love my Isthmus handpan, but words just don’t do it justice.”

- Brett

What we offer

* Annual Gatherings and Workshops *

Experienced team to guide you

quick and continuous customer support

Handpan Learning Resources

professionally built instruments

handmade for the best quality

Custom Etching Designs and scales

Nitrided for superior rust resistance

Stainless steel options

100% made in the USA

Small and portable sized handpans

Handpan Accessories & Stands

BLogs

Featured

Jan 31, 2019

Our Smaller Size Handpan. Now in Stainless Steel!

Jan 31, 2019

Our customers have been asking for smaller handpans for several years, and we are finally pleased to announce their arrival!

Jan 31, 2019

Stainless Steel vs. Nitrided Steel? What's the Difference?

Jan 31, 2019

There are three main differences between our nitrided and stainless steel handpans. First, the sound/sustain/timbre is long and bright…

Jan 31, 2019

Oct 4, 2018

Handpan Tuning - Part 1 (Steel & Nitriding)

Oct 4, 2018

We get a lot of questions about our handpan building process from customers and workshop guests. “How do you tune it?” is common, as is “How long does it take to make one?” The answers we often give…

Oct 4, 2018

Aug 3, 2018

How to Choose a Handpan?

Aug 3, 2018

These key questions should be useful in finding your perfect scale:

Aug 3, 2018

Jul 10, 2018

Handpan Accessories - How to Choose a Handpan Bag?

Jul 10, 2018

Should I get a hardcase or a softcase for my handpan? Do I even need a handpan case? We will break down the options to help you make your own informed decision.

Jul 10, 2018