Hijaz Scale in Handpan Drums

The Hijaz scale is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern, Arabic, Flamenco, and classical music, celebrated for its captivating and exotic qualities. It is also a familiar presence in movie scores, where its suspenseful and compelling tones create a world of mystery and allure. Some musicians affectionately describe it as “spicy,” a fitting nod to its ability to stir emotions and paint vivid musical landscapes.

This scale carries the essence of a romantic breeze sweeping across ancient desert sands, evoking timelessness and sensual intrigue. The Hijaz scale gained prominence with the earliest generation of the Hang® by PANArt and has since become a beloved choice among handpan builders and players worldwide.

Its pairing with the handpan’s novel sound creates an eccentric and mesmerizing playing experience, connecting musicians and listeners to a world beyond the ordinary.

This blog will explore the structure and variations of the Hijaz scale, its role in handpan music, and how to embrace its unique sound on your musical journey.

Understanding the Hijaz Scale

The Hijaz scale is renowned for its vibrant, exotic character and ability to evoke powerful emotions. And these are the 2 important aspects of the fascinating Hijaz scale.

1. A Harmonic Minor Foundation
At its core, the Hijaz scale is a harmonic minor scale with a sharpened seventh note. This alteration introduces a striking major chord amidst its minor framework, creating a sound that is both exotic and triumphant. Its signature augmented second interval brings a distinctive edge, making it one of the most identifiable scales in global music traditions.

2. Middle Eastern and Flamenco Heritage
The Hijaz scale has deep roots in Middle Eastern music, where it is often used to evoke emotion and tell stories through sound. Its adoption in Flamenco adds fiery passion and dramatic flair, making it a bridge between diverse cultures and styles.

D HIJAZ Handpan - exploration by Kirill Osherov

Key Features of the Hijaz Scale

The Hijaz scale offers a range of distinctive qualities that make it a favorite among musicians:

Exotic Intervals
The hallmark of the Hijaz scale is the augmented second interval between the second and third degrees, creating a sound that is both mysterious and dramatic.
Interval Structure
The Hijaz scale is characterized by a specific pattern of intervals that typically includes:
- A minor third followed by an augmented second.
- The sequence of intervals can be described as:
  1 − b2 − 3 − 4 − 5 − b6 − b7, where the notes create a rich, exotic sound that is distinct from Western scales.
  This structure evokes a sense of timeless beauty and cultural depth, making the scale perfect for exploring new musical territories.
Rich Emotional Palette
The Hijaz scale’s tonal range allows for expressions of melancholy, triumph, and intrigue, making it versatile for meditative, dramatic, and storytelling compositions.
Cultural Resonance
Its strong ties to Middle Eastern, Flamenco, and cinematic traditions connect musicians to a broader world of sound and emotion.
Improvisational Freedom
The structure and distinctiveness of the Hijaz scale encourage creative exploration, letting players craft unique melodies that captivate their audience.

Applications on Handpan

The Hijaz scale has gained popularity among handpan players for its enchanting qualities. Musicians often use it to impart an oriental touch to their performances. The structure of the handpan allows for expressive melodies that can transport listeners to distant lands.

Playing Techniques

The fundamental tone, often referred to as the "DING," serves as the anchor for melodies.
Players can explore various progressions using the unique intervals of the Hijaz scale, creating a captivating auditory experience.

Variations of the Hijaz Scale

The Hijaz scale is known for its rich and exotic sound, and it has several variations that reflect different cultural influences and musical contexts. Here are the notable variations of the Hijaz scale

Romanian Hijaz (Dorian #4)
This variation, derived from the harmonic minor scale’s fourth degree, offers a unique modal flavor. Often used to create uplifting and mysterious melodies, it enriches the traditional Hijaz palette with fresh possibilities.
Phrygian Dominant
Depending on the tonal center, the Hijaz scale can take on a Phrygian Dominant mode. This variant amplifies its exotic character, making it an excellent choice for Flamenco-inspired improvisations.
Harmonic Minor
Closely related to the Hijaz scale, the Harmonic Minor introduces a sharpened seventh note that adds dramatic tension and resolution. This variation is perfect for compositions that require a blend of emotional depth and melodic intrigue.
Myxolidian b2 b13
Infusing elements of the Myxolidian mode with flattened second and thirteenth degrees, this variation provides a distinctive harmonic palette. It’s particularly effective in creating rich textures in Flamenco and other world music genres.
Spanish Phrygian
This variant retains the exotic essence of the Hijaz while incorporating Spanish musical traditions. It’s often utilized in Flamenco music to evoke passionate and vibrant expressions, making it a favorite among guitarists and handpan players alike.
Tarznauyn
Some handpan builders refer to their interpretations of the Hijaz as Tarznauyn, which may feature unique tuning adjustments or note arrangements. This variation invites exploration and experimentation, offering musicians new avenues for creativity.
Other Regional Variants
Across different cultures, adaptations of the Hijaz scale have emerged, leading to regional variations that incorporate local musical styles. These adaptations allow for an even broader range of expressive possibilities within the Hijaz framework.

Each of these variations brings its own flavor to the rich tapestry of the Hijaz scale, inviting musicians to explore new sonic landscapes and creative expressions.

Why Choose the Hijaz Scale for Handpan Drums?

The Hijaz scale and the handpan are a match made in musical heaven. The scale’s hauntingly beautiful tones resonate harmoniously with the handpan’s percussive yet melodic voice, offering an unparalleled playing experience.

Emotional Expression: Its intervals allow for deep emotional storytelling, making it ideal for meditative and introspective compositions.
Versatility: The scale lends itself to improvisation, letting players effortlessly transition between haunting melodies and triumphant progressions.
Cultural Exploration: By playing the Hijaz scale, you can connect to the rich musical heritage of the Middle East and beyond, broadening your artistic horizons.

Choosing a Handpan Tuned to the Hijaz Scale

Selecting the perfect handpan tuned to the Hijaz scale is an essential step in bringing its exotic and soulful tones to life. With its unique sound, this scale requires an instrument that resonates deeply and delivers precision in every note.

Here’s how to ensure you choose a handpan that complements your musical vision.

1. Factors to Consider
When selecting a Hijaz-tuned handpan, prioritize quality craftsmanship and precise tuning. Reputable makers ensure the instrument’s clarity, resonance, and durability, which are essential for unlocking the scale’s full potential.

2. Material Options

Nitrided Steel: Warm tones with moderate sustain, ideal for rhythmic play.
Stainless Steel: Bright tones with extended sustain, perfect for melodic and meditative pieces.

3. Variations and Layout
Explore different Hijaz variations and note layouts to find the instrument that resonates most with your musical style and emotional intent.

Playing Tips for the Hijaz Scale on Handpan

The Hijaz scale’s enchanting sound invites players to explore its rich emotional and tonal depth. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician crafting intricate rhythms, the scale offers endless possibilities for creative expression.

Here are some tips to help you harness the full potential of the Hijaz scale on your handpan.

Familiarize Yourself with the Scale
Understand the notes of the Hijaz scale on your handpan. A typical D Hijaz tuning includes the notes D, Eb, F#, G, A, Bb, and C. Familiarity with these notes will help you navigate the scale more fluidly.

Explore Rhythmic Patterns
Experiment with various rhythmic patterns to enhance your playing. The Hijaz scale's exotic sound pairs well with complex rhythms. Try incorporating polyrhythms or traditional Middle Eastern rhythms to add depth to your music.
Use Chords Effectively
Integrate chords that complement the Hijaz scale into your playing. For instance, using a Dm chord or a BbMaj7 can create harmonic support for your melodies, enriching your overall sound.
Practice Melodic Improvisation
Spend time improvising melodies within the Hijaz scale. Start with simple motifs and gradually develop them into more complex phrases. This practice will help you internalize the unique sound and emotional character of the scale.
Dynamic Playing
Focus on dynamics—varying your volume and intensity can greatly affect the emotional impact of your performance. Play softly for introspective moments and build up to louder passages for climactic sections.
Listen to Influences
Immerse yourself in music that utilizes the Hijaz scale. Listening to traditional Arabic music or Flamenco can provide inspiration and insight into how to express yourself within this scale.
Enjoy the Process
Most importantly, enjoy playing! The handpan is a versatile instrument that allows for personal expression, so take your time to explore and find what resonates with you within the Hijaz scale.

By incorporating these tips into your practice routine, you can effectively explore the captivating sounds of the Hijaz scale on handpan drums, enhancing both your technical skills and musical expression.

Handpan One-on-One Lessons and Group Settings

At Sound Artist, our handpan lessons are tailored to nurture your skills, whether in a one-on-one setting or within the dynamic of a group. Our instructors, experts in the Hijaz handpan scale, guide you through personalized programs focusing on improvisation, composition, and performance skills.

Similarly, group lessons create a collaborative and inclusive environment where participants can learn from each other's experiences.

Workshops and Creative Programs

Our workshops delve into the intricacies of the Hijaz handpan scale, covering everything from fundamentals to advanced techniques. Participate in our Creative Music Ensemble program to immerse yourself in the musical community. This program is perfect for those eager to experiment with new scales, as it includes sessions centered on creativity, improvisation, and ensemble playing, alongside a chance to rent a handpan.

Explore the magic of the Hijaz scale with the Sound Artist Music & Handpan School. Schedule Your Free 30-Minute Music Session or Shop Handpans Now to start your journey into this mesmerizing musical tradition.

FAQ Section

Q1: What makes the Hijaz handpan scale unique?
The Hijaz handpan scale is unique due to its rich cultural significance and emotive tonal range. Its Middle Eastern origins offer a distinctive blend of haunting minor chords and vibrant melodic possibilities, setting it apart from other musical scales.
Q2: Can beginners learn to play on a Hijaz handpan scale?
Absolutely. While the Hijaz handpan scale has its complexities, our instructors at Sound Artist design courses for all skill levels, ensuring that beginners receive the right guidance to master this beautiful scale.
Q3: Do I need to own a handpan to enroll in the lessons?
No, you do not. Sound Artist offers handpan rental programs, allowing you to rent an instrument for your courses. This flexibility helps you start your musical journey without the initial commitment of purchasing an instrument.
Q4: How do I know if the Hijaz handpan scale is right for me?
Participating in our free 30-minute music discovery session can help assess your musical inclinations against the Hijaz handpan scale’s attributes. It provides a personal, guided exploration to ensure an informed decision.
Q5: How can I maintain my Hijaz handpan scale’s sound quality?
To maintain the sound quality of your Hijaz handpan scale, regularly clean it with a soft cloth and store it appropriately. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity levels to preserve its structural and auditory characteristics.