For this week’s Handpan Maker Spotlight, we turn our attention to Mark Petersberger Lupescu, the solo craftsman behind Lupan Handpans in Barcelona, Spain.
Mark’s musical journey began in 2003 while studying percussion, where he discovered the enchanting sound of the hang through a fellow student. His passion for music soon expanded beyond performance, leading him to study the art of harp making and, eventually, to the handpan. After moving to Barcelona in 2008, Mark immersed himself in the world of handpans and, by 2013, was crafting his own instruments, guided by master tuner Darren Dyke. Join me as we dive into the story behind Mark’s Lupan!
What is your company name? And what is the meaning/inspiration behind it?
Lupan Handpans. It's a mix of my last name Lupescu and the word Pan!
Year Founded:
2013
Location:
Barcelona, Spain
How did you first discover the handpan?
In 2003, I was studying percussion at the music school when a fellow student brought a Hang from Switzerland.
What is your goal as a handpan builder?
To make the best quality I can achieve.
What would you say your instruments are known for?
Tuning stability.
What are your most and least favorite things about being a handpan builder?
It feels good when I can make people happy, so that's inspiring. Looking for perfection in building is challenging though.
If you could only play one handpan scale for the rest of your life what would it be and why?
Actually I created a sound model which combines Kurd and Hijaz, so that's definitely what I would choose!
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring handpan makers?
Expect the road to be very long, enjoy each small step, and don't lose patience.
Tell me one interesting fact about you, your company, or your instruments.
I mostly work alone, that way I can control every aspect of the building process and continually make small changes to improve quality.
Do you take custom orders?
Yes.
Do you have instruments currently available to purchase?
Yes.
Do you have a waiting list? If so, how long?
My waiting list is currently around 3-5 months.
For more information about Lupan Handpans:
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