Adrian Portia – Handpan Teacher | Sound Practitioner

May 15, 2026

By Tiffany Yang

Adrian Portia – Handpan Teacher & Sound Practitioner

Location: Australia & online
Focus: Advanced handpan technique • Rhythm • Improvisation • Sound journeys & workshops

About Adrian

Adrian Portia is an internationally recognised handpan artist, educator, percussionist, and sound practitioner based in Australia.

Originally trained as a professional drummer and percussionist from a young age, Adrian has spent decades performing, touring, and exploring rhythm across a wide range of musical styles and world percussion instruments.

His journey with the handpan began after discovering the original HANG instrument in 2008. Since then, he has become widely known for his speed, technical precision, dynamic control, and highly expressive playing style — earning the nickname “The Hummingbird.”

Adrian has taught thousands of students around the world through workshops, performances, masterclasses, and online education. His music blends rhythmic complexity with deep musicality, while still maintaining a unique and recognisable signature sound.

Private Lessons & Workshops

Adrian offers handpan lessons, workshops, and educational sessions for players looking to deepen their understanding of rhythm, musicality, and expression on the instrument.

Develop speed, control, and dynamic playing techniques
Explore rhythm, groove, and improvisation
Learn musical phrasing and expressive playing
Build confidence across different playing styles and genres

Available as:

Online lessons and educational content
Workshops and masterclasses
Performances and sound journey experiences

Music & Sound Healing

Alongside handpan education, Adrian also works with gong, meditation music, and immersive sound experiences. His performances often blend handpan, percussion, and atmospheric sound design into deeply engaging sonic journeys.

He has released multiple recordings, including Life In Colour (2015) and the live EP Doumia (2022).

Teaching Style

Rhythm-focused and highly expressive
Strong emphasis on technique and musicality
Encourages creativity and improvisation
Suitable for players wanting to deepen their skills and understanding

Adrian’s teaching combines decades of percussion experience with a deep passion for the handpan, helping students expand both technically and creatively. Hit play on the video below to experience Adrian’s dynamic and expressive approach to the handpan.