Handpan in the Kurd scale — keys D, C#, B2 (9–16 notes)

The Kurd scale is one of the most popular handpans in the world — is universal and a favorite choice for both beginners and more experienced musicians. Its melancholic, emotional sound can soothe, move, and inspire improvisation, meditation, and the creation of your own compositions.

The name "Kurd" refers to the Kurd maqam, a musical tradition of the Middle East. In the world of handpans, it most often refers to a note arrangement based on the natural minor scale. This gives the instrument a deep, atmospheric sound and leaves ample room for creating your own phrasing.

The D Kurd scale is a particularly good choice for first handpan. Its sounds harmonize naturally, the note layout is intuitive, and the instrument offers many possibilities for both leisurely playing and more rhythmic improvisation. You can also find numerous learning materials online for this scale. I began my handpan journey with the D Kurd scale, so I know its capabilities from personal experience and gladly recommend it to beginners. I personally test each instrument before shipping, paying attention to tuning precision and stability, sound, and playing comfort.

Kurd scale handpan models

D Kurd is a minor scale based on D3 (ding)—8–14 lateral tones in the D3–D5 range. Sound: warm, melancholic, versatile. Approximate 40% buyers choose it—it's the most popular handpan scale in the world.

Handpan C# Kurd 9

Arrangement of sounds: C# | G# A B C# D# E F# G#
The C# Kurd sounds half a step lower than the D Kurd—darker and more meditative. Its nine slots accommodate both delicate, hushed phrases and more dynamic melodies. A good choice if you're looking for depth and a lower-sounding tone.

Handpan D Kurd 9

Arrangement of sounds: D | A Bb C D E F G A
D Kurd handpan in 9-note arrangement This is a classic of the genre. Its deep, soothing sound makes it one of the most popular instruments for beginners and advanced musicians alike. This scale allows for the creation of both simple, relaxing melodies and more complex compositions.

Handpan D Kurd 10

Arrangement of sounds: D | A Bb C D E F G A C
An extended version of the classic D Kurd, offering greater melodic possibilities. The additional sound (C) makes this scale even more versatile and allows experimentation with harmonies.
You can see sample designs in this scale in the store: Handpan D Kurd 10 Stainless steel i Handpan D Kurd 10 Premium Stainless Steel

Handpan D Kurd 12

Arrangement of sounds: D | A Bb C D E F G A C D E
A tone-rich scale, ideal for advanced musicians looking for more freedom to improvise. With more notes, you can create more complex and extended melodies.

Handpan C# Kurd 11 (9+2)

Arrangement of sounds: C# | (E) (F#) G# A B C# D# E F# G#
The C# Kurd 9+2 scale is an extended version of the classic Kurd, enhanced with additional E and F# notes. This gives the instrument an even greater melodic range and allows for more complex improvisations. The characteristic oriental sound of this scale will be perfect for relaxing music as well as for live concerts.

Handpan C# Kurd 12 (9+3)

Arrangement of sounds: C# | (D) (E) (F#) G# A B C# D# E F# G#
The C# Kurd 9+3 is an even more expanded scale that, thanks to three additional notes (D, E, F#), significantly expands the harmonic field. It is suitable for advanced musicians who build chords and play in multiple voices.

Handpan D Kurd 11 (9+2)

Arrangement of sounds: D | (F) (G) A Bb C D E F G A
The D Kurd 9+2 is a variant of the classic D Kurd scale, enhanced with two additional notes (F and G). This allows the instrument to allow for even broader musical expression and more complex arrangements. The scale retains its calming, melancholic character, but offers greater freedom for improvisation.

Handpan D Kurd 12 (10+2)

Arrangement of sounds: D | (F) (G) A Bb C D E F G A C
Handpan D Kurd 12 is an expanded version of the D Kurd 10, complete with additional F and G notes. This scale allows you to create more complex and rich melodies, while retaining the characteristic deep Kurd sound. A great option for those looking for an instrument for long, extended improvisations.

Handpan D Kurd 13 (10+3)

Arrangement of sounds: D | (F) (G) A Bb C D E F G A C (D)
D Kurd 10+3 adds three notes (F, G, D) to the 10-note variant. The upper D closes the octave, while the lower F and G open the modal playing—a choice for those already consciously playing.

Handpan D Kurd 14 (10+4)

Arrangement of sounds: D | (F) (G) A Bb C D E F G A C (D) (E)
The D Kurd 10+4 is an exceptionally rich scale that, with its four additional sounds, offers enormous compositional possibilities. Ideal for extended pieces, experiments with harmony and long, multithreaded improvisations.

Handpan D Kurd 14 (12+2)

Arrangement of sounds: D | (F) (G) A Bb CDEFGACDE
Handpan D Kurd 14 is a richly expanded version of the popular D Kurd scale—the additional F and G in the lower register deepen the accompaniment. Fourteen notes (12+2) are enough for full arrangements without reaching for a second instrument.

Handpan D Kurd 16 (10+6)

Arrangement of sounds: D | (E) (F) (G) A Bb C D E F G A C (D) (E) (F)
The D Kurd 10+6 is one of the most extended versions of this scale. The six additional sounds make the instrument extremely versatile and allow the creation of very complex, multi-layered compositions. It is for the most demanding musicians who are looking for fullness of tone and a wide tonal range.

Handpan D Kurd 16 (12+4)

Arrangement of sounds: (C) D | (E) (F) (G) A Bb C D E F G A C D E
Handpan D Kurd 16 This is the widest variant in this set. Sixteen notes, including the low C before the ding, allow you to play the melody, accompaniment, and bass on a single instrument.

Handpan B2 Kurd 9 notes

Arrangement of sounds: B2 | #F3 G3 A3 B3 #C4 D4 E4 #F4
The B2 Kurd 9 is an unusual variant of the Kurd scale, based on the low B2 note. This scale offers a deep, resonant sound that is perfect for both meditative music and live performances. It's a great option for those seeking a unique, low-pitched handpan sound.

Kurd handpan comparison

See handpans in Kurd scale

Below, you'll find a selection of handpan models in the Kurd scale—from simpler 9-10-note arrangements to more complex instruments with additional notes. This is one of the most popular scales for beginners: calm, deep, intuitive, and very suitable for meditation, relaxation, and first improvisations.

Other handpan scales

The Kurd scale is just one of the sound families we offer. Also check out: Handpan Pygmy (meditative), Amara / Celtic Minor (melodic) and Aegean (light, major). Each gives a different feel to the playing - you can find a full list in handpan scale guide. Not sure which Kurd variant to choose? Write — I'll tell you which outfit suits your playing style. Buy a handpan in Kurd scale →

FAQ