Learning and Performing Piece No 35 (Levitating by Dua Lipa) on Handpan

In this session, we focus on performing “Levitating” by Dua Lipa on the handpan, a track known for its rhythmic complexity and dynamic changes. This piece provides an excellent opportunity to practice and master advanced handpan techniques, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced players aiming to enhance their musical expression.

Preparation and Technique:

Before starting, it’s essential to warm up using the Pelang technique (alternating left and right hand patterns). This ensures that your hands are ready and flexible, allowing you to smoothly incorporate these techniques throughout the performance. Mastery of this hand coordination technique will make executing the piece more fluid and dynamic.

Musical Flow and Dynamics:

“Levitating” features a melody and rhythm that change across different sections, creating a sense of motion and progression. The initial part starts with the main melody at a moderate tempo and simpler rhythms, allowing you to focus on accuracy and timing. As the piece progresses, the complexity increases, requiring precise control of hand speed, rhythm, and dynamic expression. Practicing these sections gradually helps you develop the ability to transition between tempos and dynamics seamlessly

Emphasis on Ornamentation and Variations:

Alongside the rhythm, attention to embellishments, ornaments, and variations is crucial. Focus on creating diversity in your strokes and maintaining the spacing between notes, as this shapes the overall musical flow and enriches the sonic texture. By carefully observing these details, you can convey the expressive quality of the track while enhancing your technical skills

Practice Strategy:

Listen and Analyze: Start by listening to “Levitating” multiple times to understand the melodic lines, rhythmic patterns, and dynamic variations.

Slow Practice: Begin practicing slowly, focusing on accuracy in both rhythm and ornamentation.

Gradual Speed Increase: Once you feel comfortable, gradually increase the tempo while maintaining clarity and precision.

Sectional Practice: Break the piece into sections, mastering each part individually before combining them for a full performance.

Dynamic Control: Pay attention to variations in intensity and softness, ensuring the emotional flow of the piece is conveyed effectively.

Benefits of Practicing This Piece:

Performing “Levitating” on handpan helps improve hand coordination, rhythmic accuracy