This unique 5-string Guitar tuning, aptly named "Open B minor 5 string," is the result of creative experimentation, as indicated by its creator who was adapting to a broken high B string. This practical origin has led to a distinctive and musically compelling setup.

Verbal Analysis

The tuning immediately presents a rich, full B minor chord when all open strings are strummed, creating a resonant and slightly melancholic or serious soundscape. The presence of multiple octaves of B (B1, B2) and F# (F3#, F4#) within the open tuning adds significant depth and sustain. While the physical string order doesn't follow a strictly ascending pitch (String 4 is higher than String 3 in this setup), which might initially feel unconventional for players accustomed to standard tunings, this characteristic can inspire unique melodic lines and chord voicings that are not easily achievable otherwise. It's well-suited for blues, folk, or rock styles where a strong modal foundation is desired, and for drone-based compositions. The player's experience of adapting to a broken string has clearly fostered an innovative approach to the instrument.

Technical Analysis

From the lowest to the highest physical string, the tuning is: B1, F3#, B2, D3, F4#. When these notes are arranged in ascending pitch order, they reveal the core harmony: B, D, F#. This precisely forms a B minor triad, reinforced by octave doublings of the root (B1, B2) and the perfect fifth (F3#, F4#). The intervals between adjacent strings are notably varied:

• String 5 (B1) to String 4 (F3#): A compound perfect fifth (1 octave + 7 semitones, 19 semitones total).
• String 4 (F3#) to String 3 (B2): A descending minor sixth (or an ascending major third from B2 to F3#, -9 semitones).
• String 3 (B2) to String 2 (D3): A minor third (3 semitones).
• String 2 (D3) to String 1 (F4#): A compound minor sixth (1 octave + 6 semitones, 18 semitones total).

This open B minor tuning makes it incredibly easy to play B minor chords across the neck by simply barring a single fret. Moving a barred finger up the neck will transpose the B minor chord into other minor keys (e.g., 2nd fret for C# minor, 3rd fret for D minor). The open nature also lends itself well to drone notes and melodic improvisation within the B minor scale. Power chords are readily accessible on the lower strings, and the specific voicings might inspire unique arpeggiated patterns.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Open B minor 5 string" tuning, carefully adjust each string as follows:

• String 5 (Lowest, thickest): Tune down 5 semitones to B1. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. A different string gauge is advised to maintain optimal tension and tone.)
• String 4: Tune down 3 semitones to F3#.
• String 3: Tune down 3 semitones to B2.
• String 2: Tune down 5 semitones to D3. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. A different string gauge is advised to maintain optimal tension and tone.)
• String 1 (Highest, thinnest): Tune down 5 semitones to F4#. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. A different string gauge is advised to maintain optimal tension and tone.)

Always tune carefully and gradually to avoid string breakage, especially when making significant pitch adjustments. Consider restringing with appropriate gauges if you plan to use this tuning frequently.

String 5: Tuned to B1, providing a very deep and resonant bass foundation for the B minor chord.

String 4: Tuned to F3#, contributing the perfect fifth of the B minor chord, but at a higher octave than the B2 on String 3, creating an interesting internal voicing.

String 3: Tuned to B2, reinforcing the root of the B minor chord an octave above String 5, adding body to the harmony.

String 2: Tuned to D3, providing the crucial minor third of the B minor chord, giving the tuning its characteristic melancholic quality.

String 1: Tuned to F4#, completing the B minor chord with the perfect fifth at its highest register, adding brightness and sparkle.