Verbal Analysis

This tuning, named "Open Bm add4," offers a unique and resonant soundscape for guitarists. It's described as an open B tuning, drawing parallels to the popular Open D, which suggests an approachable feel for those familiar with similar open tunings. Players can expect an easy transition between Bm and Em chords, indicating that these core minor voicings are likely very accessible with simple finger shapes or barring. The tuning is noted for having a "unique vibe," often characteristic of minor open tunings, which can evoke melancholic, bluesy, or darker moods. This tuning generally requires significant slackening of the strings from standard tuning, making it feel quite different under the fingers and potentially requiring a heavier string gauge for optimal playability.

Technical Analysis

Open String Notes and Chord Structure:

The open strings are tuned to B1-E2-B2-D3-F#4-B3 (from lowest to highest). Analysing these notes reveals the following intervals relative to the lowest B (B1):

• String 6 (B1): Root (B)
• String 5 (E2): Perfect 4th above the root
• String 4 (B2): Octave of the root
• String 3 (D3): Minor 3rd above the root
• String 2 (F#4): Perfect 5th above the root
• String 1 (B3): Octave of the root

When strummed open, these notes create a B minor chord (B-D-F#) with an added Perfect 4th (E). Thus, the tuning name "Open Bm add4" is precisely accurate, as it establishes a full B minor add4 (or Bm(add11)) chord with rich harmonic overtones directly from the open strings.

Accessible Chords and Shapes:

• Open Bm add4: The fundamental open chord is a Bm(add4), providing a strong and dark foundation.
• Barre Chords: The structure lends itself well to barre chords. Sliding a single finger or a barre shape up the fretboard will yield different minor add4 chords. For instance, a barre at the 2nd fret would produce a C#m add4. A barre at the 5th fret, as mentioned in the original description, would indeed give you an Am add4 voicing.
• Bm and Em Chords: The description highlights "easy shifts between Bm and Em chords." This suggests that fingerings for these chords are either simple open shapes or easily derived from barre positions, making them readily available across the fretboard.

Open String Notes

• String 6 (Low E string equivalent): B1
• String 5 (A string equivalent): E2
• String 4 (D string equivalent): B2
• String 3 (G string equivalent): D3
• String 2 (B string equivalent): F#4
• String 1 (High E string equivalent): B3

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

To achieve the Open Bm add4 tuning, you will need to adjust your strings as follows. Please note that several strings require significant downward tuning, exceeding 4 semitones. For optimal tension, intonation, and to prevent string breakage or damage to your guitar, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string set designed for lower tunings if you plan to keep your guitar in this tuning for extended periods.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones from E2 to B1. (Movement: -5 semitones. Heavier gauge string advised.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 5 semitones from A2 to E2. (Movement: -5 semitones. Heavier gauge string advised.)
• String 4 (D): Tune down 3 semitones from D3 to B2. (Movement: -3 semitones. Standard gauge generally acceptable.)
• String 3 (G): Tune down 5 semitones from G3 to D3. (Movement: -5 semitones. Heavier gauge string advised.)
• String 2 (B): Tune down 5 semitones from B3 to F#4. (Movement: -5 semitones. Heavier gauge string advised. Note: Tuning B3 down 5 semitones typically results in F#3; the target note F#4 suggests an octave jump from this expected result, or a different interpretation of the movement for this specific string.)
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones from E4 to B3. (Movement: -5 semitones. Heavier gauge string advised.)