Satori Handpan

Live Handpan Music for Wedding Ceremonies, Receptions, and Intimate Celebrations

Ash, handpan musician

About the Artist

Ash is an SF Bay Area–based handpan musician who has been practicing and performing for more than ten years. The handpan itself is a modern melodic percussion instrument created in Switzerland in the early 2000s. Inspired by Caribbean steel drums and crafted to resonate with warm, ethereal overtones, the handpan is played by hand and produces a uniquely immersive blend of melody and rhythm. Its meditative, luminous sound has made it one of the most captivating instruments in contemporary music.

Drawing on a decade of experience, Ash brings this enchanting instrument to life through performances that are soulful, atmospheric, and deeply moving. His music adapts naturally to a variety of settings, from intimate gatherings and art spaces to weddings and private celebrations.

Couples and clients describe his music as calming, heartfelt, and unforgettable. With a professional, collaborative approach and a genuine love for his craft, Ash creates a musical experience that elevates every event and leaves a lasting emotional impression.

The Instrument

What is a Handpan?

Hover the instrument to explore

The Instrument

Steel, tuned by hand

A handpan is two domed steel shells bonded at the rim, with notes hammered into the upper surface. It is played entirely with the fingers and palms — never mallets. Move across the diagram to see how each part shapes the sound.

Bern, 2000

Created by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, who named their instrument the Hang. The word "handpan" arrived later, for the instruments others began building.

Two lineages

Descended from the Trinidadian steelpan, with a shape and playing approach drawn from the ghatam, a clay pot drum from South India.

Glued, not welded

The two shells are bonded with adhesive rather than welded. Welding heat would move the steel and undo weeks of tuning work.

Listen to the Music

Watch a Video

What Clients Say

It was great working with Ash for my wedding at Hakone Gardens. We easily scheduled video meetings together, and he arrived promptly at the venue for both the rehearsal and the day of. The guests loved the music and the unique instrument — it was a special addition to our most special day.
Allie Z. Wedding · Hakone Gardens, Saratoga
Thank you for the wonderful service you provided on Saturday. My wife was very happy with the performance — it made her birthday very special.
Nelson C. Birthday Celebration

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm based in the SF Bay Area and regularly perform throughout the greater Bay Area, Wine Country (Napa & Sonoma), and the Peninsula. I'm happy to travel further for the right event — just reach out and we can discuss.

For weddings, I recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak season (May–October). That said, I occasionally have last-minute availability, so it's always worth reaching out even on a shorter timeline.

Sets are typically 45–90 minutes depending on the package. I handle all setup and breakdown, and I bring my own instrument — no PA system or amplification needed for most intimate settings. For larger venues, a small amp can be arranged.

Absolutely. I have an extensive repertoire of original compositions and can also arrange specific songs upon request with advance notice. If you have a meaningful piece you'd like played during your ceremony, let's talk about it.

A deposit secures your date and is non-refundable. Cancellations made more than 60 days before the event receive a refund of the remaining balance. I'm always happy to discuss rescheduling if your plans change.

Contact

For booking requests, availability, or event inquiries, please reach out directly.

Contact Me

Contact@satorihandpan.com