The Nick Drake tuning, as its name suggests, is associated with the influential British folk musician Nick Drake, known for his unique guitar voicings and melancholic soundscapes. This tuning significantly alters the lower strings while keeping the upper four strings in standard configuration, creating a distinctive sonic landscape ideal for fingerstyle playing and intricate harmonies.

Technical Analysis

From a technical standpoint, this tuning is characterized by its dramatic shifts in the bass register. The 6th string is tuned down a substantial five semitones from E to B1, providing a deep, resonant foundation. The 5th string is then tuned up two semitones from A to B2, resulting in an open unison (octave) between the two lowest strings (B1-B2). The remaining strings (D3, G3, B3, E4) are kept at their standard pitch. This creates a fascinating blend of familiar intervals on the treble side and a rich, droning bass.

The open strings B1-B2-D3-G3-B3-E4 (low to high) do not form a single, conventional major or minor chord, offering a unique harmonic palette. However, the combination of notes B, D, G, and E provides ample opportunity for various voicings. The open strings prominently feature elements of:

• G Major (G-B-D): The open G3, B3, and D3 strings directly form a G major triad.
• E Minor (E-G-B): The open E4, G3, and B3 strings imply an E minor triad.
• B Minor (B-D): The low B strings combined with the D3 string provide a strong B minor flavor.

How to Tune

When tuning your guitar to Nick Drake tuning, proceed carefully, especially with the drastic changes:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones from E2 to B1. Please note that a 5-semitone drop is significant; for optimal tension and intonation, a heavier gauge string may be advisable.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 2 semitones from A2 to B2. This increase in tension is generally safe for standard gauge strings.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).