Handpan Pattern Studio featured image

Handpan Pattern Studio

Published on October 29, 2025

Create rhythms that resonate

A free, browser-based tool for handpan players to compose, layer, and share patterns with professional audio effects.

✨ Key Features

Core Platform

Interactive Handpan Interface

  • Visual handpan layout with 10 authentic scales (D Minor Pentatonic, Kurd, Celtic Minor, Hijaz, Major, Integral, Pygmy, Equinox, Sabye, Annaziska)
  • Each scale has a unique color theme reflecting its musical character
  • Real-time audio synthesis using Web Audio API
  • Touch-optimized for mobile and tablet
  • Click-to-preview notes while composing

Multi-Layer Pattern Editor

  • 16-step sequencer with adjustable length (4-64 steps)
  • Layer multiple patterns for polyrhythmic compositions
  • Independent volume and effect chains per layer
  • Solo/mute controls for isolating parts
  • Real-time level meters for mix monitoring
  • Recording mode with metronome sync

Professional Audio Effects

  • Modular effect system: reverb, delay, chorus, tremolo, filter
  • Per-layer effects for complex soundscapes
  • Master effects for final mix polish
  • Built-in presets (Ambient Space, Cathedral, Lo-Fi Warmth, etc.)
  • Save custom effect configurations
  • Lazy initialization keeps performance smooth

Pattern Variations

  • Humanize: Add natural timing and velocity variations
  • Reverse, shift, double, thin patterns
  • Euclidean rhythm generator for mathematical patterns
  • All processing happens in Web Workers (UI stays responsive)

Pattern Chaining

  • Link patterns to build full songs
  • Set repetitions and tempo overrides per pattern
  • Real-time progress tracking during playback
  • Reorder patterns with drag-and-drop

Developer Experience

Export Options

  • WAV audio export (44.1kHz, 48kHz, or 96kHz)
  • MIDI export for DAW integration
  • JSON export for pattern backup
  • URL sharing with embedded pattern data
  • QR code generation for mobile sharing

Performance & Reliability

  • Web Workers for CPU-intensive operations
  • Lazy effect initialization reduces memory usage
  • Comprehensive error boundaries prevent crashes
  • Undo/redo with full history tracking
  • LocalStorage persistence (no account required)

Accessibility

  • Keyboard shortcuts for all major functions
  • Interactive tutorial for new users
  • Responsive design (mobile, tablet, desktop)
  • Screen reader support
  • High contrast color themes

Quick Start

Try It Now

Visit https://handpan-pattern-studio.griffen.codes

Create Your First Pattern

  1. Select a scale from the dropdown (try D Minor Pentatonic)
  2. Click notes on the handpan to hear them
  3. Click cells in the pattern grid to place notes
  4. Press Space to play your pattern
  5. Click “Save Pattern” to store it locally

Add Effects

  1. Open the “Effects” panel on the right
  2. Enable Reverb and adjust the mix
  3. Try the “Ambient Space” preset
  4. Effects update in real-time during playback

Layer Patterns

  1. Click “Add Layer” in the pattern editor
  2. Create a complementary rhythm
  3. Use Solo/Mute to isolate layers
  4. Adjust individual layer volumes

Share Your Work

  1. Click “Share” in the pattern editor
  2. Copy the URL or generate a QR code
  3. Recipients can open the link to load your pattern instantly

Technology Stack

Frontend

  • Next.js 15 with App Router
  • React 19 with TypeScript
  • Tailwind CSS v4 for styling
  • shadcn/ui component library

Audio

  • Web Audio API for synthesis and effects
  • OfflineAudioContext for background rendering
  • AnalyserNode for real-time level metering

Performance

  • Web Workers for audio export and pattern processing
  • Lazy initialization for effects
  • Debounced parameter updates
  • React.memo for expensive components

Analytics & SEO

  • Vercel Analytics for user tracking
  • Speed Insights for performance monitoring
  • Open Graph and Twitter Card support
  • JSON-LD structured data for search engines

Start creating patterns that resonate. No installation, no account, just music.