This unique tuning, famously used by Hannah Frances in her song "Bronwyn," is a captivating variation of the familiar Open C. It maintains the deep, resonant foundation of Open C but introduces a distinctive character by tuning the second string down to an F. This subtle change creates a rich, often ethereal, and somewhat suspended sonic landscape, inviting exploration beyond traditional major and minor harmonies. It's particularly well-suited for fingerpicking, drone passages, and creating expansive soundscapes that evoke a sense of mystery and depth. The tuning encourages an intuitive approach to the fretboard, where open string voicings and simple barre shapes can unlock complex and beautiful harmonic textures.

Technical Analysis:

This is an Open C variant with the notes C2-G2-C3-E3-F3-C4 (low to high). Compared to standard Open C (C-G-C-E-G-C), the second string is lowered a whole step from G3 to F3 (a drop of 2 semitones from Open C, and a significant 6 semitones from standard B3). When compared to standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-e), all strings are tuned down. The open strings form a C major triad (C-E-G) with an added F, essentially a Cmaj(add4) or Cmaj11 (without the 9th or 13th). The prominent F note on the second string introduces a strong perfect fourth interval relative to the root C, and a minor seventh relative to the fifth G. This combination creates a distinctive voicing that leans towards a suspended or Lydian-like quality, departing from a straightforward major sound while retaining its fundamental brightness. It's highly conducive to creating broad, resonant chords and intricate melodic patterns over a sustained harmonic bed.

Accessible Chords (Open & Barre):

• Open Tuning Chord: The open strings themselves form a rich, complex Cmaj(add4) / Cmaj11 chord.
• Barre Chords: This tuning makes playing "maj(add4)" or "maj11" chords incredibly accessible. By simply barring all strings at any fret, you instantly get a new root chord with the same unique harmonic quality.
  • Barre at Fret 1: C#maj(add4) / C#maj11
  • Barre at Fret 2: Dmaj(add4) / Dmaj11
  • Barre at Fret 3: Ebmaj(add4) / Ebmaj11
  These simple barre shapes provide a vast palette for exploring different keys while maintaining the distinctive character of the tuning.

How to Tune:

To achieve the "Bronwyn's Open C" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps. Please note that several strings require significant downward movement. For movements exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down), consider using a different gauge string to avoid undue tension or looseness, though this tuning specifically involves loosening.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 6 semitones to F3. This is a substantial drop, making this string quite loose compared to standard.
• String 1 (High e): Tune down 4 semitones to C4.

Important Note on String Gauge: The second string (B string to F) requires tuning down 6 semitones, and the first and sixth strings (E string to C) require tuning down 4 semitones. While tuning down makes strings looser, these significant changes mean that your existing string gauge might feel exceptionally slack or even buzz. For optimal playability and tone, especially if you plan to use this tuning frequently, considering a heavier gauge string set may be beneficial.

• String 6 (Low E): Tuned to C2
• String 5 (A): Tuned to G2
• String 4 (D): Tuned to C3
• String 3 (G): Tuned to E3
• String 2 (B): Tuned to F3
• String 1 (High e): Tuned to C4