Steel Tongue Drum (10") — also known as a Hapi drum (Hand Activated Percussion Instrument) — is a handpan-style steel drum tuned to a pentatonic-style scale. Its tongue-shaped cutouts each sound a different note when struck, producing warm, resonant tones without requiring any musical training. A carrying case is included. Quick facts Item Steel tongue drum (Hapi-style) Material Steel Size 10 inches Tuning Pentatonic-style scale (pre-tuned tongues; exact scale may vary by unit) Includes Carrying case Traditionally used for Sound play, relaxation, meditation, informal music-making Care Keep dry; store in the included case; avoid extreme temperature swings Meaning & history A steel tongue drum is a modern percussion instrument, cut from a steel shell into several tuned “tongues” that each ring out a different note when tapped. Because the tongues are pre-tuned to a scale that sounds pleasant in almost any combination, there's no wrong note to play — it's a popular entry point for sound play, casual music-making, and meditative practice, often grouped with other instruments in the sound family alongside singing bowls. How to play it Play the drum with your fingertips, thumbs, or the included mallets — softer touches and mallets give a rounder, more resonant tone, while fingertips offer more control for quieter passages. Rest the drum on your lap or a stand, tap each tongue individually to learn its note, then experiment with simple rhythms or slow patterns; because the scale is pre-tuned, notes played in any order tend to sound harmonious together. Care Keep the drum dry and out of direct sun or extreme heat, which can affect the steel's tuning and finish over time. Store it in the included carrying case when not in use, and wipe it down with a soft, dry cloth to prevent fingerprints or moisture from affecting the surface. Browse more of our drums collection. Frequently asked questions What is a steel tongue drum? It's a steel percussion instrument — also called a Hapi drum — with several tuned "tongues" cut into the surface, each sounding a different note when struck. It's a musical instrument used for sound play and relaxation, not a medical device. How do I play it? Use your fingertips, thumbs, or the included mallets to tap each tongue. Because the tongues are pre-tuned to a harmonious scale, there's no wrong note — you can play freely without musical training. Is it already tuned? Yes, the tongues are tuned at the factory to a pentatonic-style scale, so any combination of notes tends to sound pleasant together. Does it come with anything else? Yes, a carrying case is included for storage and travel. How do I care for it? Keep it dry and out of direct sun or extreme heat, wipe it down with a soft dry cloth, and store it in the included case when not in use. What pairs well with a steel tongue drum? Many people use it alongside other sound tools like singing bowls or chimes for a relaxing sound session.