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Which handpan scales go well together?

January 23, 2023 2 min read

There are many combinations of handpan scalesthat can be played together harmoniously. Most handpans are made in a reference key, such as G or A, and are accompanied by notes of the same pitch in a defined scale. Some popular scales include the major pentatonic scale, the minor pentatonic scale, the diatonic scale and the chromatic scale.

What scales are compatible ? 

To play two handpans together harmoniously, it is recommended to choose handpans in compatible scales. For example, if one handpan is in a major pentatonic scale, the other handpan should be in a major or minor pentatonic scale to avoid dissonance. If you are a beginner, you can also try playing with one handpan in a diatonic scale and one in a major pentatonic scale, which are often considered compatible. 

Why diatonic and major pentatonic ? 

The diatonic scale and the major pentatonic scale go well together because they have compatible note intervals. The diatonic scale is a musical scale that consists of seven notes per octave and is constructed from the range of tones and semitones. The major pentatonic scale, on the other hand, is a scale that consists of five notes per octave and is built from the pitch range. Both scales have note intervals that are harmonious with each other, making them compatible when played together. This means that if you play one handpan in the diatonic scale and another in the major pentatonic scale, they are likely to sound harmonious together. 

For example, if you are in the key of C major and playing a diatonic scale, you would use the notes C, D, E, F, G, A, and B. If you switch to the C major pentatonic scale, you would still be using the notes C, D, E, G, and A, which are also part of the diatonic scale.

Because they share some of the same notes, diatonic scales and major pentatonic scales can be played together without sounding too dissonant or clashing. This allows for a wide range of musical possibilities and can give a sense of movement and tension and release when used in a musical context.

However, it is important to note that each handpan has its own sound character and some scale combinations may be more harmonious than others.

Note : It is important to note that chromatic scales, which include all the notes of the musical scale, are generally more difficult to play with other scales and are best suited for experienced musicians.

alexandre zunino
alexandre zunino



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