Welcome to The G Weave, a truly distinctive and deeply resonant 7-string guitar tuning. Originally described as "Baggage," this tuning lives up to its name by bringing together a unique collection of notes that create a dense, layered sonic landscape. It moves far beyond conventional tunings, offering players a fresh palette for ambient soundscapes, heavy riffs, and experimental textures.

Verbal Analysis

The G Weave is an intriguing open tuning that immediately presents a full, complex chord when strummed. The prominent use of G notes across different octaves creates a strong harmonic anchor, while the inclusion of A, B, and E adds layers of tension and brightness. It doesn't neatly fit into a simple major or minor category, instead inviting exploration of its unique intervallic relationships. The low B1-A1 pairing provides a deep, almost brooding foundation, contrasting beautifully with the bright E4 at the top. The G2-G3-A3-G3 cluster in the middle strings is particularly noteworthy, creating a rich, woven texture that gives the tuning its name.

Technical Analysis

This tuning for a 7-string guitar sets the open strings to: B1-A1-G2-G3-A3-G3-E4 (from lowest to highest).

Open Chord Characteristics

• The open strings sound an intricate chord comprising the notes G, A, B, and E across multiple octaves. Specifically, we have three Gs (G2, G3, G3), two As (A1, A3), one B (B1), and one E (E4).
• This collection of notes suggests a complex harmonic structure, potentially an Em9 (E-G-B-D-F#-A) without the D and F#, or a Gmaj6/9 (G-B-D-E-A) without the D. The low A1 and B1 add a dark, sometimes dissonant, yet powerful character to the bass.
• The unison G3 notes on the 4th and 2nd strings, coupled with the G2 on the 5th string, create a strong, resonant G fundamental, allowing for drone-like playing.
• The close proximity of A3 and G3 (on the 3rd and 2nd strings respectively) generates a subtle tension that can be exploited for melodic and harmonic interest.

Chords and Melodies Within Reach

• Open Chords: Strumming all strings open yields a rich, full, and somewhat ambiguous chord that can be interpreted in various contexts, from a heavy G-based sonority to a haunting Em.
• Barre Chords: Moving the open string shape up the neck with a single barre allows for quick access to a wide array of similarly complex chords. For example, barring at the 2nd fret would yield an A-based chord with a similar voicing character.
• Drones and Riffs: The multiple G notes make this tuning excellent for drone work. The low B1 and A1 are perfect for creating heavy, sustained riffs with a unique, slightly dissonant edge.
• Melodic Exploration: The G-A-G-G-A-G-E structure lends itself well to melodic playing, especially on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th strings where the close intervals can be easily articulated. Slide techniques will sound particularly fluid and expressive.

How to Tune

To achieve The G Weave tuning from standard 7-string tuning (B1-E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4), follow these steps:

• String 7 (Lowest B1): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 6 (E2 to A1): Tune down 7 semitones to A1.
• String 5 (A2 to G2): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D3 to G3): Tune up 5 semitones to G3.
• String 3 (G3 to A3): Tune up 2 semitones to A3.
• String 2 (B3 to G3): Tune down 4 semitones to G3.
• String 1 (Highest E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Tuning Considerations

Please exercise caution when adjusting string tension. For tunings that involve significant changes:

• The 6th string requires a substantial drop of 7 semitones. This is a considerable change, and you may find better results with a heavier gauge string to maintain tension and intonation.
• The 4th string needs to be tuned up by 5 semitones. Tuning a string up by more than 4 semitones significantly increases string tension and carries a risk of string breakage. A lighter gauge string might be advisable for this string if you plan to use this tuning frequently.
• The 2nd string is tuned down by 4 semitones. While still a significant drop, it is generally safer than large upward movements.

Always tune slowly and check your guitar's intonation after any major tuning changes. Enjoy exploring the unique sonic possibilities of The G Weave!

String 7 (lowest): B1 - The foundation of this tuning, providing a very deep and commanding bass note. This string maintains its standard 7-string tuning pitch.

String 6: A1 - Tuned significantly down, this string creates a rich, dark, and slightly dissonant low-end texture when played with the 7th string. It adds considerable weight to the overall sound.

String 5: G2 - A foundational G note, providing an important harmonic anchor and an octave relationship with the 4th string. It contributes to the strong G presence in this tuning.

String 4: G3 - A central and highly resonant G note. This string, along with the 2nd string, forms a crucial part of "The G Weave," offering a strong harmonic center.

String 3: A3 - Positioned between two Gs, this higher A creates a subtle, yet effective, major second interval. It introduces a touch of brightness and tension within the core G cluster.

String 2: G3 - A key G note, matching the pitch of the 4th string. This unison is vital for the dense, interwoven sound of the tuning, creating a rich harmonic density.

String 1 (highest): E4 - The brightest and highest string, it completes the open chord, adding a clear, open top voice and complementing the lower, heavier tones.