Overview of Micheline Tuning

The Micheline Tuning is a distinctive guitar tuning, characterized by its open string notes of Bb F Bb Eb F Bb (low to high). Described by its creator SKM as a unique exploration, this tuning offers a rich harmonic landscape and presents interesting possibilities for composition and performance.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning immediately strikes with its deep and resonant low end, thanks to the lowest string being tuned to Bb2. The repeated Bb and F notes across multiple strings create a sense of power and depth, while the Eb4 on the 3rd string adds a unique character. It's not a straightforward major or minor open chord, hinting at more sophisticated harmonic textures. This tuning could be particularly effective for genres like drone, ambient, progressive rock, or even metal, where its robust low end and somewhat ambiguous open chord can evoke moody or expansive soundscapes. The arrangement encourages exploration beyond conventional chord shapes, inviting players to discover new melodic and harmonic voicings.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes are:

• String 6: Bb2
• String 5: F2
• String 4: Bb3
• String 3: Eb4
• String 2: F4
• String 1: Bb4

Analyzing the intervals from the lowest Bb2:

• Bb2 (Root)
• F2 (Perfect Fifth above Bb2)
• Bb3 (Octave above Bb2, or Perfect Fourth above F2)
• Eb4 (Perfect Fourth above Bb3, or Minor Seventh above F2)
• F4 (Perfect Fifth above Bb3, or Major Second above Eb4)
• Bb4 (Octave above Bb3, or Perfect Fourth above F4)

The open strings collectively contain the notes Bb, F, and Eb. This forms a Bb suspended 4th (Bbsus4) chord, specifically Bb-Eb-F, with multiple octaves and doublings. This gives the open tuning a stable, yet slightly unresolved, quality. Strumming all open strings will produce a full, rich Bbsus4 sound.

Within easy reach are:

• Bb Major: By simply fretting the 3rd string at the 3rd fret (playing a D4), you can achieve a Bb Major chord (Bb-D-F).
• Bb Minor: Fret the 3rd string at the 2nd fret (playing a Db4) to achieve a Bb Minor chord (Bb-Db-F).
• Power Chords: The presence of Bb and F across several strings makes it very easy to achieve powerful root-fifth voicings by muting the 3rd string.
• Chordal Textures: The open Bb-F-Bb drone allows for the easy addition of melodic lines on the higher strings, or for complex chord voicings by fretting across the neck, utilizing the consistent root and fifth.

How to Tune

To achieve the Micheline Tuning, follow these string adjustments carefully. These movements are typically relative to a standard EADGBe tuning:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune to A#2 (Bb2). This string needs to be tuned down 6 semitones. Caution: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain optimal tension and tone, and to prevent potential string flop or buzzing.
• String 5 (A): Tune to F2. This string needs to be tuned down 4 semitones.
• String 4 (D): Tune to A#3 (Bb3). This string needs to be tuned down 4 semitones.
• String 3 (G): Tune to D#4 (Eb4). This string needs to be tuned down 4 semitones.
• String 2 (B): Tune to F4. This string needs to be tuned up 6 semitones. Caution: Tuning up 6 semitones is a significant change. A lighter gauge string is strongly advised to prevent excessive tension, potential string breakage, or damage to your instrument.
• String 1 (High E): Tune to A#4 (Bb4). This string needs to be tuned down 6 semitones. Caution: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain optimal tension and tone, and to prevent potential string flop or buzzing.

Always tune carefully and check intonation after making significant changes to your guitar's tuning.

String 6 (Low E): Bb2 (A#2)

String 5 (A): F2

String 4 (D): Bb3 (A#3)

String 3 (G): Eb4 (D#4)

String 2 (B): F4

String 1 (High E): Bb4 (A#4)