The C Modal tuning, also known as CGCGCD, is a rich and versatile guitar tuning that shares a structural kinship with the popular DADGAD tuning. This configuration boasts three strings tuned to the root note C, two strings to its perfect fifth (G), and one string to the major second (D). This unique arrangement allows for expansive harmonic possibilities and a distinctive sonic character.

Verbally, this tuning immediately evokes a sense of openness and resonance. The multiple C and G notes create a powerful drone foundation, perfect for atmospheric pieces, fingerstyle, or heavy riffing. The presence of the D (the major 2nd) rather than a 4th (as in DADGAD) gives it a brighter, more 'modal' feel, leaning towards Dorian or Lydian tonalities when played over C. It's excellent for exploring alternative harmonies and avoiding typical major/minor chord shapes, encouraging new musical ideas.

Technically, the open strings (C2 G2 C3 G3 C4 D4) present a fascinating harmonic landscape. Strummed openly, they form a robust C power chord (C-G-C-G-C) with an added major 2nd (D). This provides an immediate C-rooted sound that is neither strictly major nor minor, but rather a C(add2) or C5(add2). This structure naturally lends itself to:

• Open String Chords: A full strum of all open strings yields a powerful C5(add2) chord. Removing the D string allows for a pure C5 power chord.
• Modal Voicings: The prominent D note makes it particularly well-suited for C Dorian or C Mixolydian explorations. Barre chords across the lower C and G strings, combined with the open higher strings, can create evocative modal harmonies.
• Power Chords: The repetition of C and G across different octaves makes forming power chords (root-fifth-octave) incredibly easy and resonant across the fretboard.
• Sus2 Chords: The open D string naturally provides the sus2 interval over C, making C(sus2) and other related sus2 chords very accessible with minimal fretting.

Compared to DADGAD, where the G string (4th) adds a slightly more ambiguous or dominant flavor, CGCGCD's D string (2nd) offers a more clearly defined, yet still open-ended, modal character. This tuning is ideal for players looking to break free from standard tuning patterns and discover fresh chord voicings and melodic approaches, particularly in genres like folk, progressive rock, metal, or ambient music.

Here are the target notes for each string in C Modal (CGCGCD) tuning:

• String 6 (Low E): C2
• String 5 (A): G2
• String 4 (D): C3
• String 3 (G): G3
• String 2 (B): C4
• String 1 (High E): D4

How to Tune:

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

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from E2 to C2. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change, resulting in noticeably lower string tension. For sustained use or aggressive playing, consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tone and playability.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from G3 to G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitone from B3 to C4.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.