The Open C6 tuning for guitar offers a rich, full-bodied sound that is particularly popular in genres like Hawaiian music, blues, and folk. This tuning transforms the guitar into a harmonious instrument where the open strings themselves form a complete C6 chord.

Technical Analysis:

Technically, the open strings are tuned to C2-G2-C3-G3-A3-E4. This arrangement means that from the lowest to the highest string, you have the Root (C), Fifth (G), Octave (C), Fifth (G), Sixth (A), and Third (E) of a C major chord with an added sixth. When strummed open, this creates a clear and resonant C6 chord, which is a C major triad (C-E-G) with an added A. This specific voicing gives it a sweet and mellow character.

Chords and Playability:

The primary advantage of Open C6 is the immediate availability of a C6 chord just by strumming the open strings. Furthermore, barring across any fret will instantly yield a 6th chord corresponding to that fret. For example, a barre at the 1st fret will produce a Db6 chord, while a barre at the 5th fret will give you an F6 chord. This makes playing rhythm and lead melodies in the key of C (or related keys) incredibly intuitive. The close proximity of notes also lends itself well to slide guitar, creating smooth, vocal-like glissandos.

How to Tune:

To achieve the Open C6 tuning from standard E Standard (E-A-D-G-B-E), follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from E to C. Caution is advised when tuning down 4 semitones; consider a heavier gauge string if this tuning is used frequently.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A to G.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D to C.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B to A.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

The Open C6 tuning sets your guitar strings to the following notes:

• 6th String: C2
• 5th String: G2
• 4th String: C3
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: A3
• 1st String: E4