The 'Cailleach Alt' tuning, described as "another cailleach song tuning", offers a deep, resonant soundscape particularly suited for atmospheric or traditional Celtic-inspired music. It combines the depth of low tunings with unique harmonic intervals.

Verbal Analysis

When played open, this tuning produces a rich F major chord (F-A-C) suspended over a low C pedal tone. The open strings C2-A2-C3-F3-C4-C4 create a vibrant F major with an added C in the bass, giving it a strong, grounded foundation. The unison C4 on the top two strings (traditionally the B and high E strings in standard tuning) provides a unique droning capability and makes for easy octave and chord voicings in the higher register. The presence of the open A string as the second lowest string, combined with the low C, offers interesting harmonic possibilities beyond typical open tunings.

This tuning invites experimentation with drone-like qualities and lends itself well to fingerstyle arrangements or percussive playing that leverages its strong open resonance. Chords like F major, C major (by omitting or muting the A string, or by fretting it to a G), and even some open minor chords (e.g., Cm if the A string is flattened or avoided) can be easily accessed with unique voicings due to the open C, F, and A notes. The low C and overall resonant quality make it ideal for powerful, open strumming or atmospheric arpeggios.

Technical Analysis

The open tuning notes are: C2 - A2 - C3 - F3 - C4 - C4. This configuration features multiple C notes across three octaves, creating a powerful fundamental and strong octaves. The interval structure from the lowest C2 is particularly noteworthy:

• String 6 (C2) to String 5 (A2): Major 6th
• String 5 (A2) to String 4 (C3): Minor 3rd
• String 4 (C3) to String 3 (F3): Perfect 4th
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (C4): Perfect 5th
• String 2 (C4) to String 1 (C4): Unison

This interval structure emphasizes an F major triad (F-A-C) heavily, with the lowest C acting as a pedal tone, effectively creating an Fmaj/C chord when all strings are strummed open. The wide range, from C2 to C4, coupled with the unison high strings, offers a rich harmonic palette and extensive possibilities for open-string drones and harmonic textures. While not a pure Open C tuning, its heavy reliance on C and F notes gives it a modal or Drop-F feel, with the A string adding a distinctive '6th' character.

How to Tune from Standard EADGBe

To achieve the 'Cailleach Alt' tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps carefully:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. *Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop in tension. For optimal tone and playability, especially if this tuning is used frequently, a heavier gauge string may be advisable.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitones to C4. *Caution: Tuning up 1 semitones is generally safe for most strings, but always tune slowly and carefully to avoid string breakage.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 4 semitones to C4. *Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop in tension. For optimal tone and playability, especially if this tuning is used frequently, a heavier gauge string may be advisable.

Always use a reliable tuner and tune slowly to avoid string breakage, especially when making larger adjustments. Consider a professional setup if you frequently use tunings with significant string tension changes to ensure your guitar plays its best.

String 6 (Low E string in standard tuning): C2
String 5 (A string in standard tuning): A2
String 4 (D string in standard tuning): C3
String 3 (G string in standard tuning): F3
String 2 (B string in standard tuning): C4
String 1 (High E string in standard tuning): C4