Verbal and Technical Analysis

The Cmaj13 tuning for the Ukulele presents a truly rich and complex sonic landscape. This nine-string setup, highly unusual and specialized for a ukulele, is meticulously designed to resonate as an open C Major 13th chord across its wide range from a deep B0 to a bright D4. This means when all strings are strummed open, you're immediately greeted with a full, lush, and resonant chord comprising the root (C), major third (E), perfect fifth (G), major seventh (B), major ninth (D), perfect eleventh (F), and major thirteenth (A), along with multiple octaves to fill out the sound. The result is a sophisticated, jazzy, and highly expressive sound that can be used for atmospheric pads, intricate arpeggios, or as a unique accompaniment.

Technically, the open tuning notes B0, E1, A1, D2, G2, C3, F3, A3, D4 directly spell out a Cmaj13 chord with various octave voicings, providing an extraordinary harmonic depth not typically found in standard ukulele tunings. The sheer number of strings and the chordal nature of the open tuning offer a distinct playing experience. While traditional ukulele chord shapes might require re-learning or adaptation due to the extended range and voicing, the immediate benefit is the availability of a full 13th chord. Simple techniques like barring across different frets will instantly transpose this Cmaj13 to other 13th chords (e.g., a barre at the first fret would yield a C#maj13).

How to Tune

This tuning requires a consistent adjustment across all nine strings. Each string needs to be tuned down by two semitones from its implied standard tuning position to reach its target note. This is a mild adjustment, meaning that standard string gauges should be perfectly suitable, and there's no need to worry about excessive tension changes or string breakage.

• String 9: Tune down 2 semitones to reach B0.
• String 8: Tune down 2 semitones to reach E1.
• String 7: Tune down 2 semitones to reach A1.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to reach D2.
• String 5: Tune down 2 semitones to reach G2.
• String 4: Tune down 2 semitones to reach C3.
• String 3: Tune down 2 semitones to reach F3.
• String 2: Tune down 2 semitones to reach A3.
• String 1: Tune down 2 semitones to reach D4.

String 9: B0

String 8: E1

String 7: A1

String 6: D2

String 5: G2

String 4: C3

String 3: F3

String 2: A3

String 1: D4