MY APPROACH

MY PLAYING STYLE AND MUSICAL APPROACH

When I started playing the handpan, I was often confronted with feedback that I was always playing the same thing. This made me feel uncertain at times, wondering if my playing style was good enough. But instead of letting those doubts discourage me, I chose to stay committed to my own style and kept focusing on what truly mattered to me in music.

I quickly realized that I didn’t just want to play notes. I wanted to share stories through music - stories that deeply touch people and express what moves me on a personal level. My background in music, from playing piano to producing hip-hop beats, gave me an understanding of the importance of rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics. I used these principles to develop my own way of playing. From that moment on, I played whenever I could. No matter where I went, I always carried my handpan with me. Being a generally insecure person, I often let the handpan speak for me in social situations. This approach gave my music the space to grow and mature over time. By creating a safe and intentional space for myself, I unlocked the freedom to fully express whatever I was feeling in the moment.

I learned how to improvise and compose at the same time, allowing my music to flow naturally as a reflection of what was inside me.

For me, the handpan is much more than just an instrument. It is a way to connect, to create moments of stillness and beauty, and to share emotions. My goal has always been to make my music accessible and relatable while leaving a deep emotional impact.

Over time, I’ve come to understand just how essential authenticity and honesty are when playing. Whether I’m performing for an audience or simply playing for myself, I aim to connect with the core of my emotions and let that guide my music. This connection allows me to bridge the gap between artist and listener, creating shared moments of understanding and resonance.

I feel incredibly grateful for how my journey with the handpan has unfolded and for the amazing support I’ve received along the way. Today, it is an honor to know that so many people find inspiration in my music. It’s a privilege to share what moves me with the world and to see how it touches the hearts of others.

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MY TEACHING METHOD

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding more than 3,000 students on their journey with the handpan. What began as intuitive and improvised workshops has grown into a fully developed teaching method, shaped by countless interactions and experiences. Through my work on social media and beyond, I’ve connected with an incredible variety of people - each with their own goals, whether it’s mastering the art of self-expression, enhancing their technical skills, or deepening their understanding of this extraordinary instrument.

Suitable for everyone

The diversity of my students - ranging in playing level, musical background, and personal experiences - has continuously pushed me to refine my approach. Over time, I’ve honed the Malte Marten Method to provide maximum value for every learner, regardless of their starting point.

As interest in the handpan and its teachings continues to grow, and as my ability to teach in person remains limited, I’ve created alternative ways to share my knowledge. These include comprehensive online courses for players and the world’s first handpan teacher training program.

For me, it’s essential that beginners taking their first steps into the handpan world are guided thoughtfully and effectively. But what does “effective teaching” mean to me? Beyond fundamental knowledge and technical skills, teaching handpan should foster creativity, empathy, and a deeper connection to oneself. It’s about going beyond simple patterns and techniques to unlock the true essence of the instrument.

The Malte Marten Method answers the many questions and challenges of learning and teaching the handpan. By equipping teachers with a well-rounded education, we ensure the growth of a diverse and healthy handpan community where every player can express themselves uniquely. Together, we can create a future where the handpan is far more than a musical instrument - it’s a gateway to personal transformation and emotional connection. 

Let’s preserve the magic of these beautiful sounds and inspire new players to feel the same fascination I felt when I first touched the instrument. Become an MMM-certified handpan teacher and gain the skills needed to guide your students on a profound journey, while elevating your own playing to new heights.

ABOUT THE METHOD

“The Malte Marten Method embodies an efficient, holistic approach rooted in solid pedagogical foundations. It provides a practical pathway to becoming a more skilled and confident handpan player or teacher.”

What are the benefits?

Here’s a quick overview of the benefits and core principles of my method:

  • Progress from level 1 to 10 without countless exhausting practice hours.

  • Gain a clear understanding of your own playing style.

  • Learn in a way that guarantees fun and fosters consistent development.

  • Play with a partner or in a group right from the start.

  • Benefit from a decade of my personal growth as a player and teacher.

  • Simplify complex patterns and grooves, adapting them to your skill level.

  • Reflect on yourself through the handpan to become a more authentic person.

  • Unlock expressive, virtuosic playing that feels natural and genuine.

THE THREE PILLARS

  • Flow

    The first pillar of the Malte Marten Method centers around the concept of playfulness. It encourages an expressive and exploratory approach to learning the Handpan. All exercises are undertaken with a playful spirit, enhancing the diversity of one's playing and deepening the structural understanding of the instrument. This playful approach brings joy and flow to the musical journey, which leads to a continuous and quick learning experience.

  • Authenticity

    The second pillar of the Malte Marten Method focuses on authenticity. It emphasizes the acknowledgment and appreciation of each participant's unique qualities. The method is shaped and influenced by the individual contributions and qualities of each person. This fosters a deep understanding of expression in both playing and teaching, creating an authentic connection with music, the audience and the students.

  • Experience

    The third pillar of the Malte Marten Method focuses on the holistic integration of knowledge, practical application, and personal growth. Through hands-on experience, our students not only gain a comprehensive understanding of playing the handpan but also develop a deeper connection with the instrument and themselves. The experiential component ensures a well-rounded education, fostering both skill acquisition and personal transformation in the realm of music.

EXPERIENCE THE MALTE MARTEN METHOD
THROUGH MY ONLINE COURSES

Whether you’re a beginner eager to explore the handpan for the first time, or an experienced player looking to take your skills and teaching to the next level, the Malte Marten Method offers a comprehensive path to growth, discovery, and authentic expression.