The Viola da Braguesa Tuning: A Portuguese Folk Tradition

This unique tuning, known as the Viola da Braguesa tuning, unlocks the distinctive sounds of the traditional Portuguese chordophone. It is designed to resonate with the rich heritage of Portuguese folk music, departing significantly from standard guitar tunings to create a soundscape perfectly suited for its intended repertoire.

Verbal Analysis

The open strings of the Viola da Braguesa are C2, G2, A2, D3, and G3. This arrangement immediately presents a deep, resonant foundation with the lowest C2 string, anchoring a bright and often melancholic upper register. The combination of notes creates a complex, evocative harmony that is neither a simple major nor minor chord in its open form. Instead, it invites a modal approach, facilitating the intricate melodies, drones, and specific harmonic voicings characteristic of the instrument. The tuning's character leans towards a rich, often wistful sound, ideal for traditional ballads and lively folk dances.

Technical Analysis

• Open Notes: C2 - G2 - A2 - D3 - G3 (from lowest to highest string).
• Intervals: Examining the intervals between adjacent strings reveals:
• C2 to G2: Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
• G2 to A2: Major 2nd (2 semitones)
• A2 to D3: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
• D3 to G3: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
• This unique intervallic structure, particularly the Major 2nd between the 4th and 3rd strings (G2 to A2), is key to the instrument's distinct voice. The prevalence of perfect 4ths and 5ths also provides a stable framework for melodic development and harmonic drones.
• Chordal Implications: While not forming a standard open chord, the tuning contains elements that can easily resolve into or imply common harmonies:
• The open C, G, A, D, G notes lean towards C Major 7th suspended (with missing E and B) or a Gsus4add9.
• The D3 and G3 strings together form a Perfect 4th, providing a bright, open sound.
• The C2 and G2 strings form a strong Perfect 5th, offering a solid bass foundation.
• Moving the A2 (3rd string) up two frets to B2 would create a C G B D G voicing, strongly implying a C Major 9th chord, showcasing the tuning's potential for rich harmonic extensions with minimal effort. Similarly, the open tuning readily supports D and G tonalities.
• The tuning is highly effective for drone notes and counter-melodies, which are staples of traditional Viola da Braguesa music.

How to Tune Your Viola da Braguesa

To achieve the authentic Viola da Braguesa tuning (C2 G2 A2 D3 G3), you will need to adjust your strings significantly downwards from a presumed standard tuning (e.g., E A D G B for a 5-string instrument). Please follow these specific instructions for each string:

• 5th String (Lowest): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. Please be cautious when tuning down 4 semitones; if your strings are initially very taut, a different gauge string might be advisable to maintain optimal tension and tone.
• 4th String: Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• 3rd String: Tune down 5 semitones to A2. A significant drop of 5 semitones means the string tension will be much lower. Consider a heavier gauge string if you experience excessive floppiness or buzzing.
• 2nd String: Tune down 5 semitones to D3. Similar to the 3rd string, a 5-semitone drop can drastically reduce tension. A heavier gauge string could improve playability and tone.
• 1st String (Highest): Tune down 4 semitones to G3. Tuning down 4 semitones warrants care. Ensure your string can maintain sufficient tension without becoming too loose.

Always tune carefully, using a reliable tuner, and be mindful of your instrument's bridge and neck stability, especially with significant tension changes. Enjoy exploring the rich sounds of the Viola da Braguesa!

The open strings for the Viola da Braguesa tuning are:

• 5th String: C2
• 4th String: G2
• 3rd String: A2
• 2nd String: D3
• 1st String: G3