The handpan , a magical and fascinating instrument , has conquered the hearts of musicians and enthusiasts around the world thanks to its ability to create enveloping melodies and unique atmospheres. In this article, we will explore some of the most fascinating musical scales for the handpan, opening the doors to a world of sonic possibilities.

The scale in the handpan defines the true "character" of the instrument. Like when you get close to a person. It could be an exuberant person, always the center of attention, who gives energy and vitality to those who listen to them, or it could be that person who makes you feel welcomed and pampered, who can't help but caress your face. Or that person who talks to you about distant countries and in an instant takes you to the other side of the world. Finally that person who initially seems shy and gloomy, but once you become familiar with them, they talk to you about your deepest self and take you on a journey to discover things about yourself that you didn't think...

If we want to make a first subdivision, we can find two main souls : the minor scales and the major scales . The first ones evoke meditative, introspective sounds. The second ones, instead, transmit joyful, open and captivating sounds.

Handpan Minor Scales

• Handpan Celtic Minor or Amara

The Celtic Minor scale, also known as Amara , is one of the most popular and versatile . Its sound recalls Celtic music , much loved in the Irish and Scottish environment. Recommended for both beginners and professionals , it offers an open and tension-free musical experience. The most popular keys range from B to F#.

• Handpan Kurd or Annaziska

The Kurd scale, linked to the Arabic musical tradition , is a complete diatonic minor scale . Popular and never tiring , it offers many harmonic possibilities with an intuitive chord progression. Also known as Annaziska when in the key of C# , it is a popular choice in both the East and the West.
Note: The Kurd in D minor was the first scale used and perhaps the most widespread .

• Handpan Integral Minor

Similar to the Kurd scale but without the 4th degree , the Integral Minor scale becomes a hexatonic natural minor scale . The lack of the fourth degree makes it extremely versatile , adapting to both minor and major modes.

• Handpan Equinox

Equinox , a hexatonic minor scale , balances major and minor moods , creating an intriguing and pleasant atmosphere. Ideal for melodic compositions and improvisations , it offers a harmonic journey between the minor and major modes.

• Handpan Hijaz

Hijaz , a harmonic minor scale , carries with it Arabic sounds and atmospheres , creating evocative soundscapes. Suitable for different progressions , it can be considered a dominant Phrygian scale, also used in Flamenco.

• Hanpan Harmonic Minor

The Harmonic Minor scale is a fascinating choice for the handpan, as it brings with it a rich and enchanting character . This scale is derived from the natural minor scale , but with a major sixth . This modification creates a unique and distinctive atmosphere, allowing the player to explore more complex and fascinating sounds.

• Handpan The Mermaid

The “La Sirena” scale, with its major sixth , creates an enchanting and dreamy atmosphere. Intriguing to play, it lends itself more to composition , opening melodic lines in both the major and minor modes.

• Handpan Low Pygmy

Derived from African music , the Low Pygmy scale is soft, meditative and dreamy. With its repetition of four notes over two octaves , it offers deep harmonics, but must be handled with care to avoid repetition.

• Handpan Aeolian or Chandra

The Aeolian , or Chandra , scale is a full natural minor diatonic scale , similar to Kurd and Celtic. Used extensively in pop music , it offers vast compositional possibilities.

• Handpan Akebono

The Akebono scale, of Japanese origin , is deep and introspective. Less widespread , but suitable for those seeking unique and evocative sounds .

• Handpan Blues

The Blues scale, a minor pentatonic with the addition of chromaticism , offers typical blues sounds . Although not very common on its own , it integrates well with other instruments in blues contexts.

The Handpan Major Scales

• Handpan Sabye or Ashakiran

The Sabye scale, one of the most used , brings joy and lightheartedness. Diatonic and modal Lydian , it is perfect for expressing happy moods and pairs well with minor scales.

• Handpan Oxalis

The Oxalis scale, a major and mellow pentatonic , offers radiant melodies and deep harmonies. With the fundamental note on the ding, it is suitable for melodic composition and rhythmic playing .

• Handpan Aegean

The Aegean scale, a major scale based on the major 7th chord , creates majestic and inspiring atmospheres. Explore on mutant instruments and with bottom notes for a wider range.

• Handpan Paradise

The Paradiso scale, a cheerful major pentatonic , was created for music therapy . With two versions , it offers uplifting melodies and deep harmonies.

• Handpan YshaSavita

Derived from a major hexatonic scale , the YshaSavita brings positive energy and happy vibrations. It pairs well with minor scales , providing a complete musical experience.

• Handpan Ibuk

The Ibuk scale, mixolydian , offers a calm and joyful atmosphere, ideal for music therapy . Less intuitive , it mixes playfulness and peace.

• Handpan Ragadesh

The Ragadesh scale, major pentatonic with Indian sounds , evokes sensations of curry and mystical atmospheres. Suitable for alternating melody and percussion .

Which Scale to Choose?

The choice of scale depends on you. On your feeling, on your style, on the emotions that the instrument transmits to you, on those you want to express and on the musical context, if you want to use it as a healing instrument or to perform.

Explore them all, find yours and choose the handpan that best suits you with VIBRASONIC !