Handpan artist

I’ve played many handpans over the last years, but my JZ Soundart from Johan stands out for sure. The sound is rich and full, and I especially love how open and crisp the high notes are. The instrument is super stable and reliable — it feels right.

What made it even better was working with Johan. We designed a scale together that truly fits my style, and he didn’t stop until everything sounded exactly how I imagined it. His dedication, communication, and craftsmanship are next level! 

Very grateful for this instrument — it’s a joy to play.

G oxalis 19 — Koné

www.konemoerman.com

Handpan artist

When I first take in the handpan crafted by Johan from Norway, everything begins with visual contact. This instrument captivates even before the first note is played. Its gentle golden shade, soft and subtle like muted sunlight, immediately brings a sense of calm and draws me closer. Smooth transitions of color and delicate surface structure make it not just an instrument, but a true work of art. Already in that moment, there is a desire to touch it, to hear how it sounds.

And then, when the instrument comes alive under the hands, another side of its beauty unfolds — the sound. It is pure, deep, and perfectly harmonious. Within it, you can hear not only the notes but also the voice of the metal itself, of the body of the instrument. The balance between these elements is so fine that every note seems to breathe and expand into the space. The overtones deserve special mention: they resonate freely, naturally, and effortlessly, creating a sense of wholeness and fullness. It is that rare harmony where the overtones do not interfere with the main tone but enrich it, making the sound more alive and multidimensional.

My instrument in G major resonates deeply with my inner world. Each note stretches softly and at length, filling the space with a bright, luminous sound. Even when played louder or with more intensity, its defining quality remains — softness. This softness is felt in everything: in its appearance, in its resonance, in the very core of its sound. It does not cut or disturb the ear; instead, it embraces and invites you into dialogue.

Every time I play this handpan, I feel the desire to connect with it more and more. It inspires, it attracts, and it gives a profound sense of harmony. This is an instrument that does not simply sound — it lives and unfolds together with you.

This is link of my Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/denys_balykhin?igsh=bGprOWZ3bGttbWxt&utm_source=qr

Drummer and percussionist

“The first time I came across a handpan made by Johan Zaar, I was actually looking for something completely different and hadn’t planned on investing in a handpan at all. But I instantly fell in love and couldn’t stop thinking about it. Eventually, I just had to go back and buy it – and I’ve never regretted it. Johan crafts truly outstanding instruments that sound beautiful both acoustically and through a PA. I use mine in band settings as well as in theatre productions – most recently in Prima Facie at Riksteatret/Nationaltheatret.”

Hjemmeside: https://www.elisabethnesset.no/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elisabeth.m.nesset/

(Photo: Birgit Solhaug)

I am very glad to have one of Johan’s handpans tuned in 432 Hz, The healing frequency, as part of my sound therapy work.

Its sound carries a depth that touches people on a profound level.

I hold space for sound journeys and sound baths at The Well Spa and in other places, and this drum has guided many into deep states of relaxation and transformation. Participants are often amazed by its sound and frequently ask about it afterwards.

Johan’s craftsmanship makes every instrument unique. The tones are extraordinary and rich, warm, and full of soul and they truly move the heart.

I use many different instruments in my sessions, but this handpan remains one of my absolute favourites. The sound is exceptional, and the handmade quality is outstanding.

I strongly recommend Johan’s drums. They are suitable for everyone whether you are a beginner or a professional musician.

Handpan artist

My first meeting with a Handpan was with Johan at JZ Soundart in the interior of Norway. It was a fantastic feeling to get there, and I received a very nice reception.I felt like home! The visit resulted in me becoming the owner of a D celtic/kurd/dorian 14 notes ember steel hanmdpan,which I received carefully packed home to Sweden via post.

Starting to play the Handpan also felt like coming home. With many years of experience as a drummer, percussionist and songwriter I can safely say that Handpanplaying is the most complete form of expression I have experienced as a musician.

Here you don’t need to think about special techniques or being good enough. Playing the Handpan is a way to express yourself directly from the heart and there is no right or wrong!

Everyone I play for is touched and many experience deep harmony when they hear this instrument. Several times I have received comments along the lines of “it’s like getting a massage”. My children (five and seven years old) like to play with me, they quickly find their own intuitive ways of creating music. So in addition to sounding dreadfully cool, the instrument has great therapeutic potential. And as for me as a musician, I am sure that I will continue to develop together with my Handpan, it seems that the possibilities are endless!

Multi-instrumentalist

I first met Johan Zaar the maker of JZ SoundArt Handpans in springtime 2021 when he lived close to Drammen. I realized that he is more than just a handpanmaker, he is a creative polymath with a passion for sound, rythms and music.

I played some of the handpans he had available and I was pleaced with the high quality. Johan suggested that he could make me a custom made handpan with the combination of two scales that he had been elaborating with for a period. I accepted his suggestion.

Some months later Johan showed up at my place with this extraordinary instrument! A 13 note Bminor/Dmajor handpan. This instrument is a perfection for intuitive playing style. I have used this handpan in close to 100 soundjourneys and soundhealing sessions. The notes are still perfectly tuned. And still after playing this instrument for almost 3 years I am continuously discovering new layers of harmonics in the soundscape of this instrument. I am also assured that if anything happens with my instrument Johan would most likely be able to fix it, probably to another level of perfection.

I will highly recommend JZ SoundArt Handpans for any handpanplayer, beginner, professional or avant-garde.

Thomas Alexander Skog

Multiinstrumentalist

Handpan artist

I’ve had a passion for playing drums and percussion since I was a child. Music has always been a significant part of my life, and drums hold a special place in my heart. When I was young, I was truly inspired by rhythms and drumming. There was something magical about playing and feeling the energy of the music.

I started exploring different types of drums and percussion instruments at an early age. One day, I discovered the Handpan, and it was love at first sight (or should I say, sound). The Handpan is a unique instrument that combines beautiful tones with a calming and meditative effect. I began playing the Handpan in 2014, and it has truly transformed my life.

For me, drumming is not just about music; it’s also about being in harmony with nature. I love playing outdoors, whether it’s on top of a mountain or by the water’s edge. There’s something special about letting the rhythm blend with the sounds of nature. It gives me a sense of freedom and joy.

I have during my time as a handpan player owned and played a great number of handpans from well-known and recognized handpan makers, and I can truly say that:

JZ Soundart’s Handpans are exceptional musical instruments of high quality. They are crafted with great care and precision, producing beautiful and resonant sounds. JZ Soundart ensures that your Handpans meet the highest standards. Whether you’re a professional musician or a passionate enthusiast, JZ Soundart Handpans are a reliable choice for creating captivating melodies. They are dedicated to helping you find the right scale for your Handpan and have the expertise and knowledge to guide you through the process. You can trust JZ Soundart to provide you with the best instrument experience! 

Daily/pedagogical manager Gideon’s Music School

“I run a private music school that has many percussion students. I met Johan Zaar for the first time in the summer of 2023 and got to test his handpans. Johan’s handpans are of the highest quality, made with the greatest care with a very solid and rich sound. I have now ordered the music school’s first handpan from Johan and there will be more orders in the future. I recommend Johan’s handpan to anyone who wants a first-class instrument. Regards, Gideon Andersson, daily/pedagogical manager Gideon’s Music School”

Handpan Artist

I’ve been playing Handpan for about 10 years and I’ve learnt that knowing a good maker close to you is invaluable.  When I moved to Norway I was looking for someone who makes Handpans and found Johan.  He was full of knowledge and passion for his craft and uses well known high quality shells and material so I felt confident to order a Handpan from him.  

In 2021 I traveled to his workshop to pick up my custom 16 note D Ashakiran. It sounded beautiful and was exactly what I was looking for. All the notes were tuned perfectly without excessive hammering or weak points in the metal which shows great craftsmanship.

More than 2 years later I still love this Handpan and the notes remain true with minimal travel beyond a few Hz without a need to re-tune.

I have no hesitation to recommend JZ Soundart Handpans and now that Johan is also using ember steel I am just waiting for the right opportunity to order another one!

Handpan Artist and founder of Gongbliss in Denmark.

My handpan is made by Johan Zaar from JZ Soundart in Norway. 

All my instruments have a “story” and I had no doubt, that I had found the right handpan-maker, when I was recommended Johan from a swedish musician. It was for me a great solution and the perfect choice even though I live in Denmark. 

I am so happy and super satisfied with my handpan. 

Marit Blom – founder of Gongbliss in Denmark.

Handpan Artist and founder of ONE NEW PLANET

I am absolutely delighted with the handpans I recived from my dear friend Johan Zaar. His craftmanship is truly exceptional, and I could not be prouder to own his remarkable creations. Johan Zaar is a master artisan we are fortunate to have in Norway, and the mesmerizing sound of his handpans is truly remarkable. I wholeheartedly recommend his handpans to enyone seeking exceptional musical instruments.