About the C Gamba Extended Tuning

This unique tuning, originally described as a "Viola de Gamba tuning, but whole step down," offers a deeply resonant and "relaxing" sonic landscape. It is specifically designed for a Viola de Gamba, providing a rich, dark timbre well-suited for its original musical context. The open string notes are C2 F2 A#3 D3 G3 C4.

Technical Analysis

The C Gamba Extended tuning features a distinctive set of intervals that create a complex harmonic foundation:

• String 6 (C2) to String 5 (F2): Perfect Fourth (P4)
• String 5 (F2) to String 4 (A#3): Perfect Fourth (P4) - (Note: A# is enharmonically Bb)
• String 4 (A#3) to String 3 (D3): Major Third (M3)
• String 3 (D3) to String 2 (G3): Perfect Fourth (P4)
• String 2 (G3) to String 1 (C4): Perfect Fourth (P4)

Chords and Playability

When strummed open, this tuning presents a sophisticated C7sus4(add9) chord (C-F-G-A#-D-C), offering a rich, expansive sound that can evoke a contemplative or ethereal mood. The inherent "relaxing" quality mentioned by the creator is likely due to this open, suspended harmony. Due to the prevalence of perfect fourth intervals, players accustomed to fourths-based tunings will find familiar chord shapes and scales easily accessible. Barre chords are generally feasible, and the low C allows for deep, resonant drone notes. The inclusion of A# (Bb) provides a strong dominant or bluesy character when combined with the C root, opening up possibilities for modal exploration and rich harmonic textures beyond simple diatonic progressions.

How to Tune

To achieve the C Gamba Extended tuning, you will need to significantly detune your instrument from its standard setup. Please proceed with care, especially for larger pitch drops, and consider the appropriate string gauges for optimal performance.

• String 6 (Lowest String): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. This is a substantial drop from a typical standard tuning for many instruments.
• String 5: Tune down 4 semitones to F2. This is a substantial drop.
• String 4: Tune down 4 semitones to A#3. This is a substantial drop.
• String 3: Tune down 5 semitones to D3. Caution: A drop of 5 semitones is significant. A heavier gauge string is advised to maintain proper tension and intonation, as lighter strings may become too floppy.
• String 2: Tune down 4 semitones to G3. This is a substantial drop.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 4 semitones to C4. This is a substantial drop.

Given that all strings are tuned down by 4 or 5 semitones (with String 3 exceeding the typical recommendation for standard string gauges), it is strongly advised to use a heavier gauge string set than what might be standard for your instrument to ensure stable tuning, good tone, and prevent excessive string floppiness.