Tuning Overview: Cgcfbf#

This custom open tuning, ingeniously named Cgcfbf#, is designed for the adventurous guitarist seeking unique harmonic textures and resonant soundscapes, drawing inspiration from artists like Nick Drake and Sun Kil Moon. It transforms your standard 6-string guitar into a sonic canvas rich with possibilities.

Technical Analysis

The tuning consists of the following notes from the 6th (lowest) string to the 1st (highest) string:

• String 6: C2 (Lowest root)
• String 5: G2 (Perfect 5th, reinforcing the C root)
• String 4: C3 (Octave above the lowest C, creating a powerful C5 foundation)
• String 3: F3 (A perfect 4th above C, introducing a suspended or C11 characteristic)
• String 2: B3 (A major 7th above C, adding a rich major 7th tension, but also a tritone with F)
• String 1: F5# (A high F# provides a sharp 11th or augmented 4th against the C root, creating a distinctive bright dissonance. Note the presence of both F natural and F# in the tuning.)

This is a highly unconventional open tuning. The low C-G-C provides a solid C power chord foundation. The addition of F3, B3, and F5# creates a complex, resonant, and somewhat dissonant harmonic cluster. The juxtaposition of F natural and F# across different octaves is a key characteristic, offering both tension and potential for intriguing voicings.

Verbal / Sonic Observations

As described by its creator, this tuning is well-suited for the intricate fingerpicking and atmospheric qualities found in the music of Nick Drake and Sun Kil Moon. The open strings resonate with a rich sustain, allowing for sparse arrangements to sound full and captivating. The unusual intervallic relationships, particularly the F-B-F# cluster on the higher strings, encourage exploration beyond traditional chord shapes, leading to unique melodic and harmonic phrases. It's a tuning that will inspire a contemplative, slightly melancholic, yet deeply resonant sound.

Chords and Harmonic Possibilities

The open strings themselves form a complex chord: C-G-C-F-B-F#. While not a standard triad, it can be interpreted as a C chord with a strong 5th and octave, featuring a suspended 4th (F), a major 7th (B), and a sharp 11th (F#). This immediately provides a rich, open voicing that leans towards Cmaj7(sus4,#11) or a highly extended C chord. Because of this:

• Open Resonance: Simply strumming the open strings yields a distinct, atmospheric sound, perfect for drones or intros.
• C-based Harmonies: The strong C-G-C foundation makes C power chords and extended C harmonies (e.g., by fretting on the 3rd or 5th fret of the lower strings) easily accessible.
• Unique Voicings: Barring across any fret will create unusual, clustered chords due to the non-standard intervals. Experiment with partial barres and single-finger chords on the higher strings to exploit the F-B-F# tension.
• Melodic Potential: The wide range, especially the very high F# on the first string, lends itself to shimmering arpeggios and melodic lines that stand out against the deeper, resonant bass.
• Dissonance and Resolution: The interplay between F natural and F# can be used to create compelling moments of tension and release in your compositions.

How to Tune to Cgcfbf#

To achieve the Cgcfbf# tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E tuning, follow these precise string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. (Note: E to C is a significant drop; ensure your guitar's neck relief is stable after tuning.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune up 2 semitones to F5#. (Note: Tuning up can increase string tension; proceed carefully.)

While no individual string movement strictly 'exceeds' 4 semitones in magnitude (e.g., -5 or +5), the -4 semitone drop on the 6th string and +2 semitone rise on the 1st string are notable. Always monitor your guitar's intonation and neck stability when making significant tuning changes.

String 6: C2

String 5: G2

String 4: C3

String 3: F3

String 2: B3

String 1: F5#