Learn three different easy to play rhythms for RAV Drum, handpan or any multi-toned percussion instrument. The first two of these rhythms are linear, meaning you only play one note at a time. The third rhythm introduces chords, playing more than one note at a time. Percussionist and multi-instrumentalist Matt Bazgier demonstrates.
***Take lessons with Matt Bazgier via Skype worldwide. Contact mattbazgier@gmail.com.
The RAV Drum played in this video has a G Pygmy scale tuning.
Notes in the G Pygmy scale: G2, C3, D3, Eb3, G3, Bb3, C4, D4, F4
Scale tones (in the same order): 1, 4, 5, b6, 1, b3, 4, 5, b7
Purchase RAV G Pygmy and other RAV Drums and handpans at https://www.didgeproject.com/store.
RAV Drum (aka RAV Vast) is a relatively new instrument that fuses the concepts behind handpans (hang drums) and tongue drums (traditionally made of wood). Perfectly cut steel tongues vibrate harmoniously together to create an ethereal sound perfect for meditation, relaxation, and other mystical music experiences.
RAV was invented in 2013, the same year PanArt stopped making the Hang. RAV is from Russia with cut keys as opposed to the hammer tuned Hang drum, which is not cut or welded in anyway. The RAV has a deep resonance and profound reverb effect where the sound lasts for a long time while the Hang drum sound goes for a much shorter duration. This allows for a lot more space between key strokes in the RAV because the sound carries so long without losing the rhythm, which can make for more experimental playing in some respects than the Hang or handpan. The fullness of the sound and the duration of each key stroke makes the instrument very meditative to play because it renders itself to slow playing but of course can also be played very quickly and rhythmically. The backside is not as accessible or resonant as a handpan but can still be played rhythmically. The price of a RAV is 1/3 the cost of a Hang and is also generally easier to play than the Hang for most people. It is also a much more durable and sturdy instrument. The handpan can be knocked out of tune with too hard of a hit and over time may need to get tuned up regardless while the Rav does not and is almost impossible to knock out of tune. The Rav also has harmonics beyond the fundamental key like the Hang/handpan and both are available through Didge Project for purchase at https://www.didgeproject.com/store.