McCarthy Instruments

30/10/2026

Also coming out of the workshop this week is this F # Pygmy 21 note in Ember Steel. This pan is a variation on the traditional layout as we've moved all of the higher notes onto the top shell for easier access and playability.

This instrument is currently available. PM for details.

30/10/2026

First impressions from a customer who just received his new D Aegean 20 note Handpan.

After a lengthy delay in delivery (due to some circumstances out of our control), David's patience paid off and his new pan finally arrived. We wish him all the best with his new instrument and all of his musical endeavors in the future.

Happy playing! 🎶

29/10/2026

D Kurd 15 note, Ember steel. Built Autumn 2026. Heading to a customer in Ireland. ☘️

13/10/2026

I carried out some electro etching on a pan recently to cover up some scratches acquired in the building process.
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Here's a closer look at how it's done! This ended up being quite a unique instrument in the end. Very happy with how this turned out.

13/10/2026

Where's the best place to play Cuban music? The west of Ireland sure. ☘️🇨🇺
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One year since we recorded this cover of "Havana" in Galway and Mayo.

Does anyone remember a similar video from 8 years ago? Same style, but played with a different instrument...made with wood. If anyone remembers, I'll post the video.

29/09/2026

D Aegean 20 note Handpan in Ember steel. Built by McCarthy Instruments in Dublin, Ireland.

Scale: (B) D (E), F # (G #), A (B), C #, D (E), F #, G #, A (B), C #, D (E), F #, G #, A

19/08/2026

Did you know that there's a "hidden" Major key within the D Aegean Handpan?
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While this scale is heavily based around the minor key of F # and D, there is also a slightly less obvious progression based around A major.

Because of this, you also have the famous 1,5,6,4 chord progression which is used in thousands of famous songs.

I had only just discovered this shortly before filming so it's not the best demonstration, but I'd love to see some other players give this a go. 🎵🛸

18/08/2026

The D Aegean 18 note Handpan in Ember steel.
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This is one of those scales that I find very hard to put down. With so many chord options it invites the player to create their own unique melodies and progressions. A very versatile scale with a large tonal range. And good fun to play!
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Made by McCarthy Instruments, Summer 2026.

14/08/2026

Fresh out of the workshop is this D Aegean 18 note in Ember steel. One of the most versatile scales I build, and a real joy to play.

This McCarthy Handpan is tuned to D "Aegean" with 18 notes in Ember...

12/08/2026

Leaving the workshop this week is this D Aegean 18 in Ember steel. This one is a challenging build as a maker, but definitely one of the most rewarding to hear and play.