This unique tuning, aptly named CGCGBF, is an intriguing variation on an Open C tuning, as hinted by its description as an 'alternate open C for Indian sounding and drinking songs.' It offers a rich, resonant sound with a distinctive harmonic character. The low C-G-C provides a powerful foundation, while the subsequent G-B-F creates a complex, somewhat exotic overlay. Strumming the open strings produces a rich, full chord with a pleasant tension, making it inspiring for both rhythmic accompaniment and melodic exploration. Its versatility could indeed lend itself to the evocative scales found in Indian music, as well as the robust chordal movements suited for spirited folk or drinking songs.

Technical Analysis

The tuning notes are C2-G2-C3-G3-B3-F4. This setup is rooted in C, with the C-G-C-G across the first four strings providing a strong C power chord base with octaves. The addition of the B (major 7th) and F (perfect 4th/11th) on the higher strings creates a fascinating harmonic cluster. When all open strings are played, the resulting chord can be technically described as a Cmaj7(add11). The presence of both the major 7th (B) and the 4th/11th (F) creates a unique flavor—not quite a dominant 7th, nor a simple major or minor. This specific combination allows for a blend of stability and colorful dissonance.

Due to the open string relationships:

• Open Chords: Strumming all strings open yields a Cmaj7(add11) (C-G-C-G-B-F). This is a resonant, full-bodied chord perfect for droning or as a home base.
• Power Chords & Fifth Voicings: The lower C-G-C-G arrangement makes it incredibly easy to create powerful root-fifth voicings across the lower strings by simply barring a single fret.
• Accessible Chords:
  • Moving the 1st string (F) up one semitone to G (1st fret) changes the open chord to C2-G2-C3-G3-B3-G4, creating a beautiful Cmaj7(add9), which is a very pleasing and common extended chord.
  • Barring across any fret maintains the intervals, creating movable chord shapes. For example, barring the 5th fret would give F-C-F-C-E-Bb, a rich Fmaj7(add11) chord.
  • Experimenting with the B and F strings allows for easy access to dominant 7th or minor 7th qualities by simple one or two-fret movements. For instance, tuning the B string down to Bb (or fretting at the 11th fret relative to open B) and the F string down to E (or fretting at the 12th fret relative to open F) would approximate a C7 (C-G-C-G-Bb-E).

How to Tune Your Guitar to CGCGBF

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

• 6th String (Low E): Tune this string down 4 semitones from E2 to C2. (Caution: This is a significant drop. Consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone, especially if you plan to use this tuning frequently.)
• 5th String (A): Tune this string down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• 4th String (D): Tune this string down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep this string as is; G3. No change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Keep this string as is; B3. No change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E): Tune this string up 1 semitone from E4 to F4.

Here are the notes for each string when tuned to CGCGBF:

• 6th String: C2
• 5th String: G2
• 4th String: C3
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: B3
• 1st String: F4