A#m(add9) Tuning: A Deep, Melancholic Voice

The A#m(add9) tuning transforms your guitar into a rich, dark soundscape, laying a powerful foundation for minor keys while introducing a sophisticated add9 tension. The open strings are tuned to A#2, F2, C3, F3, A#4, C#5. This unique arrangement results in an A# minor triad (A#, C#, F) with an added C note, which functions as a major second or a #9, lending a bluesy, jazzy, or even melancholic quality to the open chord. The repeating A# and F notes across different octaves create a natural resonance and fullness, particularly appealing for rhythmic accompaniment or drone-based playing.

The significant drops in pitch for the lower strings (String 6 down 6 semitones to A#2, and String 5 down 4 semitones to F2) suggest a thick, authoritative low end, ideal for heavy riffs, atmospheric pads, or percussive playing. The tuning's density in the lower register, combined with the higher, melodic C#5 on the first string, offers a broad tonal range.

From a chord perspective, the open strings themselves form an A#m(add9) chord, providing an immediate harmonic richness. This structure makes it easy to explore voicings based around the A# minor scale. Barre chords across the neck will likely yield interesting minor 9th and minor 11th voicings. Due to the repeated F and A# notes, simple two or three-finger chord shapes can often produce complex and resonant harmonies. For instance, a simple two-finger shape fretting strings 4 and 3 at the same fret will often yield powerful intervals, building on the established A#m(add9) base. Experimentation with open string drones against fretted notes will be highly rewarding, especially for creating evocative soundscapes in genres like progressive rock, metal, ambient, or folk. The wide intervals between strings, particularly between the 5th and 4th, might require some finger stretching for traditional chord shapes, but also open up possibilities for unique arpeggios and melodic lines.

How to Tune to A#m(add9)

To achieve the A#m(add9) tuning from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these specific adjustments for each string. Please exercise caution, especially with significant pitch changes; consider a different string gauge if tuning far outside the recommended range. When making large pitch changes, ensure your guitar's neck is properly adjusted or seek professional setup advice.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones from E2 to A#2. This is a substantial drop, and a heavier gauge string is advised for optimal tension and playability.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 4 semitones from A2 to F2. This is also a significant drop, and a heavier gauge string is advised to maintain proper string tension.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 2 semitones from G3 to F3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 1 semitone from B3 to A#3. Note: The final target note specified in the tuning notes for this string is A#4. Following the provided instruction to tune down 1 semitone from standard B3 results in A#3. To reach A#4, a significantly larger upward adjustment (11 semitones from B3 or 10 semitones from A#3) would be required, which would likely necessitate a lighter string gauge and extreme care, as it's a major pitch increase. Please clarify your intended target pitch for this string.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 3 semitones from E4 to C#4. Note: Similarly, the final target note specified in the tuning notes for this string is C#5. Following the provided instruction to tune down 3 semitones from standard E4 results in C#4. To reach C#5, a significantly larger upward adjustment (9 semitones from E4 or 12 semitones from C#4) would be required, which would likely necessitate a lighter string gauge and extreme care, as it's a major pitch increase. Please clarify your intended target pitch for this string.

String 6: Tuned to A#2 (the lowest A# on a standard 88-key piano).

String 5: Tuned to F2 (the F below middle C, a perfect fifth below A#2).

String 4: Tuned to C3 (the C below middle C, a major second above A#2).

String 3: Tuned to F3 (the F above middle C, an octave higher than String 5).

String 2: Tuned to A#4 (the A# above middle C, an octave higher than String 6).

String 1: Tuned to C#5 (the C# an octave above middle C, a minor third above A#4).