Handpan Scales with Sound Artist

Welcome to Sound Artist’s dedicated page on handpan scales – your ultimate guide to understanding this unique musical instrument. At Sound Artist, we are passionate about bringing music to life through our enriching handpan lessons, both offline and online globally. 

Whether you're a budding musician or a seasoned artist, our offerings are crafted to inspire creativity, mastery, and personal expression. With handpans at the core of our programs, we aim to connect you to the transformative power of music. 

Discover detailed insights about handpan scales, the different types available, and the benefits they bring to your musical journey.

The World of Handpan Scales

Minor Scales

Handpan minor scales are renowned for their emotional depth and versatility, making them a popular choice among musicians. These scales often evoke feelings of melancholy, introspection, and mystery, allowing players to express a wide range of emotions through their music. Here are some of the most commonly used minor handpan scales:

Below is a selection of popular minor handpan scales with their characteristics:

• D Minor Kurd

Scale Composition

• The D Minor Kurd scale consists of the following notes:

• D (root)

• A (perfect fifth)

• Bb (minor sixth)

• C (minor seventh)

• E (major second)

• F (minor third)

• G (perfect fourth)

Characteristics:

• Includes all the notes and chords from the minor scale.

• Offers rich harmonic possibilities with intuitive natural chord progressions.

• Popular scale and easy to play with other handpans.

• Good compatibility with other instruments.

Styles: From dreamy to mystical to happy and hopeful.
Discover a New Scale on your D Kurd! PanScript

• B Celtic Minor

Scale Composition

The B Celtic Minor scale consists of the following notes:

• B (root)

• C# (major second)

• D (minor third)

• E (perfect fourth)

• F# (perfect fifth)

• A (minor seventh)

Characteristics:

• Calming and meditative sound.

• Creates an enchanting and mystical atmosphere.

• Well-suited for introspective and peaceful compositions.

• A popular choice for meditative music.

Styles: Mystical, enchanting, and serene.
Edoardo Striani - Composition on RAV Vast B Celtic minor

• C Minor

Scale Composition

The C Minor handpan typically consists of the following notes:

• C (root)

• D (major second)

• Eb (minor third)

• F (perfect fourth)

• G (perfect fifth)

• Ab (minor sixth)

• Bb (minor seventh) 

Characteristics:

• Warm and resonant tones.

• Provides an inviting canvas for emotional and heartfelt music.

• Great for exploring the softer and more intimate side of the handpan.

Styles: Emotional, warm, and introspective.
C Minor handpan

• F# Minor

Scale Composition

The F# Minor scale typically consists of the following notes:

• F# (root)

• G# (major second)

• A (minor third)

• C# (perfect fifth)

• D (minor sixth)

Some variations may include additional notes, depending on the specific tuning of the handpan. For example, extended models may feature a full diatonic scale that includes:

• B (minor seventh)

This configuration allows for a wide range of melodic possibilities, making it suitable for various musical styles.

Characteristics:

• Dreamy and tranquil with an ethereal quality.

• Perfect for creating ambient and meditative soundscapes.

• Often used for soothing, reflective music.

Styles: Dreamy, reflective, and soothing.
Saraz Handpan F# Minor 8

• E Minor

  • Characteristics:

    • Balanced and contemplative tone.

    • Strikes a chord between melancholy and beauty.

    • Highly versatile for adapting to various moods.

Styles: Melancholic, balanced, and versatile.
Saraz Handpan E Minor ( Stainless Steel )

Our advanced lessons at Sound Artist delve into the intricacies of these scales, guiding students through the nuances that make minor scales both challenging and rewarding.

You can explore your minor scale handpans here

Major Scales

Major scales on the handpan offer a bright, uplifting sound that resonates with joy and positivity. They are typically the go-to choice for creating happy, energetic music. You can find major scales intuitive as they harmonize easily across different notes, making it an excellent choice for beginners.  

Below are the details of popular major handpan scales along with their characteristics:

• D Major

Scale Composition

The D Major scale typically consists of the following notes:

• D (root)

• E (major second)

• F# (major third)

• G (perfect fourth)

• A (perfect fifth)

• B (major sixth)

• C# (major seventh)

This configuration allows for a full diatonic experience, enabling musicians to explore a wide range of melodic possibilities.

Characteristics:

• Cheerful and vibrant tones.

• Inspires lively and harmonious compositions.

• Bright and positive sound, making it great for celebratory music.

• Easy to play and connect with other instruments.

Styles: Uplifting, joyful, and harmonious.

D major Universal scale Handpan meditation improvisation

• C Major

Scale Composition

The C Major scale typically consists of the following notes:

• C (root)

• D (major second)

• E (major third)

• F (perfect fourth)

• G (perfect fifth)

• A (major sixth)

• B (major seventh)

This configuration allows for a full diatonic experience, enabling musicians to create melodies that are both engaging and easy to play.

Characteristics:

• Straightforward and pure tones.

• Well-known for its clarity and simplicity.

• Perfect for creating uplifting and uncomplicated melodies.

• A common and beginner-friendly scale.

Styles: Happy, bright, and accessible.

Saraz Handpan C Major ( Stainless Steel )

You can explore your major scale handpans here.

Exotic Scales

Exotic handpan scales offer unique tonal qualities that evoke specific cultural sounds and emotions. These scales often draw from traditional music styles from around the world, providing musicians with a rich palette for creative expression. Here are some notable exotic handpan scales:

1. Kurd Scale

• Origin: Arabic music tradition.

• Character: Natural minor scale, versatile with both minor and major chords.

• Example: D Kurd (D/A Bb C D E F G A).

• Description: This scale allows for haunting melodies and is popular among both beginners and advanced players due to its emotional range.

Unlock SEVEN different scales on your D Kurd Handpan

2. Celtic Scale

• Origin: Traditional Celtic music.

• Character: Minor tonality, captivating and intuitive.

• Example: D Celtic (D/A C D E F G A C).

• Description: Reflects the historic Celtic scale, creating a beautiful minor feel that is easy for beginners to grasp.

Celtic Minor Handpan Scale 🍀

3. Pygmy Scale

• Origin: Developed by PanArt.

• Character: Pentatonic scale, intriguing and magical.

• Example: F Pygmy (F/G Ab C Eb F G Ab C).

• Description: This scale is known for its unique blend of major and minor qualities, producing an enchanting sound.

4. Hijaz Scale

• Origin: Middle Eastern music.

• Character: Arabic and Middle Eastern feel, exciting and driving.

• Example: E Romanian Hijaz (E/A B C D# E F# G B).

• Description: A harmonic minor scale with roots in Arabic maqamat, this scale has a dreamlike quality that draws listeners in.

5. Akebono Scale

• Origin: Japanese music.

• Character: Pentatonic scale that evokes melancholic and ethereal sounds.

• Example: Derived from the Japanese diatonic scale "In."

• Description: Often used in modal jazz improvisation, this scale is perfect for creating emotional and atmospheric pieces.

6. Chinese Scale

• Origin: Traditional Chinese music.

• Character: Captures the essence of Chinese melodies.

• Description: This scale allows players to explore typical Chinese musical feelings, providing a distinctive cultural sound.

Conclusion

The choice of handpan scale ultimately depends on your personal musical expression and the emotions you wish to convey. Each scale offers unique tonal qualities, but the true magic comes from your creativity and what you can invent with your handpan. 

Whether you're seeking to evoke tranquility or excitement, the right scale can enhance your musical journey.

If you're interested in exploring more about how to choose a handpan or identify a quality instrument, be sure to check out our blog articles on these topics for valuable insights and guidance. Embrace the adventure of sound and let your musical voice shine!