The History of Mokum Instruments
Where it all started..
In the heart of Amsterdam, with the gentle resonance of the Rijksmuseum surrounding them, three musicians discovered each other through their passion for music. What started as a handful of street performances blossomed into a friendship that would one day become Mokum Instruments.
Deniz and Joris shared their love for the handpan, creating soundscapes that made passersby stop and breathe for a moment, while Kristof filled the city with the warm voice of his violin. Day after day, the three crossed paths, eventually forming a bond rooted in music, creativity and genuine connection.
Change in Dynamics
As time passed, Kris felt an undeniable pull toward the handpan. His creative and technical hands urged him to explore its craft. With steel, simple tools and a few guiding tips, he stepped into the unknown.
The early results were humble, but persistence turned them into instruments filled with warmth and soul. For Deniz and Joris, this was a turning point. Requests for instruments and lessons were growing, and Kris’s creations became the foundation of a new chapter. Mokum Instruments was born, alongside Handpan Studio, to craft and share high quality handpans with the world.
The Circle of
Mokum Instruments
In late 2024, the circle came full circle. The three musicians stood together once more, just as they had twelve years earlier, now performing inside the Royal Palace on the Dam for the Prince Claus Fund, with members of the royal family in the audience. They played on handpans crafted by Kristof himself, with him accompanying on violin, uniting their friendship, craftsmanship and shared journey in one unforgettable moment.
And the story is still unfolding. Their collaboration continues to grow, driven by purpose, passion and a desire to share the magic of the handpan with the world. Every instrument they create and every note they play carries the same intention that first connected them on the streets of Amsterdam, to bring joy, inspiration and a sense of wonder to all who begin this musical journey.
Every instrument I create carries the love and dedication I put into it, made with the thought of the music and meaning it will bring to its new home.
Kris, 2025