This unique open tuning, explicitly named "C major 9" and provided for the Violin, presents a highly experimental and expanded sonic setup. As a guitar tuning analyst, it's immediately apparent that this tuning pushes the boundaries of a traditional Violin's range and configuration, venturing into an impressively low register.

Technical Analysis:

The open strings are set to an unusually low and broad range for a Violin, stretching across multiple octaves: C2 – E2 – D3 – A4# – G4 (from the lowest 5th string to the highest 1st string). While the tuning is named "C major 9" (a chord typically comprising C-E-G-B-D), the actual open notes provided are C, E, D, A#, and G. The inclusion of A4# (A sharp, enharmonically equivalent to Bb4) instead of B introduces a dominant seventh quality, aligning this tuning more closely with a C dominant 9 (C-E-G-Bb-D) when played open. The D3 serves as the 9th, and G4 provides the 5th. This unique voicing offers a rich C dominant 9 sound, with the C and E notes remarkably low, two octaves below a standard Violin's lowest G3.

• 5th String (C2) to 4th String (E2): A Major 3rd.
• 4th String (E2) to 3rd String (D3): A Minor 7th (ascending from E to D).
• 3rd String (D3) to 2nd String (A4#): An Augmented 5th (or Minor 6th if A# is considered Bb).
• 2nd String (A4#) to 1st String (G4): A Minor 2nd (descending from A# to G).

These highly unconventional intervals and the vast range create a complex harmonic foundation. The C2 and E2 notes are exceptionally low for any standard Violin, suggesting this tuning is either theoretical or intended for a highly customized 5-string instrument, such as a baritone violin or an extended-range electric violin. The wide spread of pitches will likely challenge traditional violin fingering techniques but could unlock new harmonic possibilities for avant-garde or drone-based compositions.

Verbal Analysis & Playability:

From a player's perspective, this "C major 9" tuning, with its inherent C dominant 9 character when open, offers a powerful and resonant harmonic base. Playing the open strings will immediately yield a rich, jazzy, or blues-infused C chord. The significant distance between the lowest strings (C2, E2, D3) means that standard chord shapes may be difficult to execute, demanding an innovative approach to fingering. However, this expansive layout also facilitates broad arpeggios and unique melodic contours, allowing for lush textures. Open string chords readily available include fragments of C7 (C-E-G-A#), a C triad (C-E-G), and implied G major (G-D). The tuning encourages exploration of open string drones and deep bass lines that can support melodies played on the higher strings. Given the extreme string tension adjustments required (all strings tuned significantly upward), this tuning should be approached with considerable caution, and a different, likely heavier, string gauge is highly recommended to protect the instrument and ensure optimal playability.

Open String Notes:

Here are the target pitches for each string in this "C major 9" tuning:

• 5th String (Lowest): C2
  This is an exceptionally low note for a Violin, typically found on instruments like a Cello. To achieve this, you will need to tune up 6 semitones. This is a very significant upward adjustment, and a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain playability and prevent potential instrument damage.
• 4th String: E2
  Another very low pitch. To reach E2, you will need to tune up 5 semitones. This is a significant upward adjustment, and a different gauge string should be considered due to the substantial tension required.
• 3rd String: D3
  Still significantly lower than a standard Violin's lowest note (G3). You will need to tune up 5 semitones to achieve D3. This is a significant upward adjustment, and a different gauge string should be considered.
• 2nd String: A4# (A sharp)
  This string is tuned to A sharp in the 4th octave. You will need to tune up 3 semitones. This is a notable upward adjustment; exercise care when tuning.
• 1st String (Highest): G4
  The highest string is tuned to G4. You will need to tune up 3 semitones. This is a notable upward adjustment; exercise care when tuning.

How to Tune:

To set up your Violin in this "C major 9" tuning, follow these precise string movements from your current tuning:

• 5th String: Tune up 6 semitones to reach C2. *Warning:* Tuning up 6 semitones is a very significant adjustment. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to prevent damage.
• 4th String: Tune up 5 semitones to reach E2. *Warning:* Tuning up 5 semitones is a significant adjustment. A different gauge string is advised.
• 3rd String: Tune up 5 semitones to reach D3. *Warning:* Tuning up 5 semitones is a significant adjustment. A different gauge string is advised.
• 2nd String: Tune up 3 semitones to reach A4#. *Caution:* Tuning up 3 semitones is a notable adjustment; proceed with care.
• 1st String: Tune up 3 semitones to reach G4. *Caution:* Tuning up 3 semitones is a notable adjustment; proceed with care.