I created this school to help others find what music gave me: a voice, a rhythm, and a sense of inner peace.

Why I Started The Handpan School

The Handpan School was born from a deep belief: Music is the most powerful medicine for self-love, stillness, and connection.

The handpan, in particular, is a truly unique instrument — intuitive, meditative, and accessible — and it offers a playful yet profound path back to yourself.
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When I started playing in 2024, I noticed that most online platforms only offered full courses. But as someone who already had some experience with rhythm and music, I didn’t want to commit to a full package just to learn a few techniques. I’d rather spend that money on my next handpan!

This experience inspired me to do things differently. Through the Malte Marten Teacher Training, I discovered a beautifully structured approach to teaching, built around the Malte Marten Method. This method now forms the foundation of all my lessons.

About the method

Malte Marten Method

What is the Malte Marten Method?

The Malte Marten Method is a proven teaching approach to learning the handpan — in your own way. The method was developed by Malte Marten, one of the world’s most renowned handpan players. Over the past ten years, he has taught worldwide and helped more than 3,000 people discover their own musical voice on the handpan — from complete beginners to experienced musicians.

The lessons at the Handpan School are based on this method. As a certified trainer, I work with this structured yet flexible system that not only teaches you technique, but also invites you to explore what music truly means to you.

About Me

Hi, I’m Berno van der Wal (born in 1979), based in the Netherlands.

Music has been a guiding force in my life since childhood. It helped me survive a difficult youth and gave me a way to express myself when words fell short. I played in bands from age 14 to 35, mostly on guitar — but in my 40s, I finally followed a long-held desire: to explore rhythm through drums and percussion.

This shift led me to ambient music — a space of calm and introspection — and eventually to the handpan. Its warm, resonant sound allowed me to bridge acoustic expression with digital percussion and synth textures.

How This Platform Works

To keep things flexible and low-threshold, you can:

Purchase individual video lessons to explore specific topics or techniques.
Take 1:1 online lessons.
Buy the complete course if you want the full journey from beginner to confident player.
Add on bonus videos covering themes like dissonance, storytelling, or playing with others.

You decide what fits your learning path — no pressure, no upfront commitment.

Want to stay updated on new lessons, bonus content, and handpan tips?

More About My Work

Besides this international platform, I also run a physical Handpan School in the Netherlands. I teach from my private studio and offer workshops throughout the country. The Dutch Handpan School also functions as a network where students can find certified teachers and book handpan players for events. Together, we’re building a strong and inspiring handpan community — one that shares knowledge and raises the standard of handpan education.

I’m a certified Malte Marten Method Teacher — part of the only officially recognized teacher training for handpan players worldwide.

My Own Music (as BERW)

Besides teaching, I’m active as a music artist under the name BERW.

I create ambient compositions that blend acoustic and electronic percussion, with the handpan as a central voice. Using effects and looping, I sculpt immersive soundscapes that invite deep listening and emotional clarity. My performances often explore themes of contrast, stillness, and transformation — inspired by both nature and inner landscapes.

You can find my music and video performances on social media and streaming platforms.

Music for Meditation & Breathwork

I also produce and perform music specifically for meditation, breathwork sessions, and healing practices.

This music is often more minimal and spacious, designed to support deep inner work and guide the listener into altered or relaxed states. Whether in live sessions or custom commissions, I love creating sound environments that help people reconnect with themselves — beyond words or thoughts.