This unique tuning, known as Ben Howard's Gracious, is specifically crafted for a distinctive sound on the guitar. It features a deep, resonant quality, often characteristic of Ben Howard's intricate fingerstyle arrangements, and is the specific tuning employed for his song 'Gracious'.

Technically, this is an Open C-based tuning with a prominent emphasis on the 4th (F). The open strings are C2 F2 C3 G3 F4 C4. This configuration creates a powerful C suspended 4th (Csus4) or C add 11 (Cadd11) chord when strummed open, offering a rich, harmonically full sound. The arrangement provides an expansive range, featuring a low C drone on the 6th string and a high C on the 1st string, complemented by multiple F notes throughout the lower and higher registers. The presence of the G (fifth) on the 3rd string maintains a strong harmonic foundation.

Guitarists will find this tuning particularly inspiring for melodic fingerpicking, creating drone-like textures, and exploring open voicings. The open string configuration lends itself to easy access to C major-derived chords, as well as sus4 and add11 voicings, often requiring minimal fretting to achieve complex harmonies. This tuning is designed for the Guitar, providing a versatile and resonant foundation for creative exploration.

Open String Notes:

• 6th String (Low E): C2
• 5th String (A): F2
• 4th String (D): C3
• 3rd String (G): G3
• 2nd String (B): F4
• 1st String (High E): C4

How to Tune from Standard EADGBe:

Caution: When tuning strings up or down by more than 4 semitones, it is advisable to consider using a different string gauge to prevent potential string breakage or neck damage. This particularly applies to the 2nd string in this tuning.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from E to C2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones from A to F2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 6 semitones from B to F4. (Extreme care advised, consider a lighter gauge string)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 4 semitones from E to C4.