The "Esmerelda" tuning, as famously used by Ben Howard, crafts a deeply resonant, somewhat introspective, and melancholic soundscape. It significantly departs from standard guitar tuning, offering a rich harmonic foundation perfectly suited for intricate fingerstyle playing and atmospheric compositions.

Technical Analysis

This is a distinctive open tuning, largely built upon an Open C structure but with a crucial modification on the second string. The open notes from the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st) string are C2-G2-C3-G3-F3-C4. Analyzing the intervals relative to the low C (6th string) as the root:

• String 6 (C2): The Root of the C chord.
• String 5 (G2): A Perfect 5th above the root.
• String 4 (C3): An Octave above the root.
• String 3 (G3): An Octave + Perfect 5th, or a G an octave higher than the 5th string.
• String 2 (F3): A Perfect 4th relative to the C an octave above, or a Minor 7th if seen from the G on the 3rd string, or even a Major 2nd below the G on the 3rd string. This F is the key element that diverges from a pure Open C tuning (which typically has an E or C on the 2nd string).
• String 1 (C4): A Double Octave above the root, or an octave above the 4th string.

The open strings collectively produce a rich and complex C voicing, which can be interpreted as a Cadd11 or a Cmaj7sus4 (though not a strict maj7). The prominent presence of the F (4th) alongside the G (5th) and C (root/octave) creates a beautiful, often suspended or slightly unresolved quality, which is a hallmark of Ben Howard's sound. The multiple C notes (on strings 6, 4, and 1) and G notes (on strings 5 and 3) provide immense sustain, volume, and a strong drone-like foundation, while the F on the second string introduces melodic tension and harmonic interest.

Open Chords and Playability

With the open strings, you immediately access a full and resonant C voicing. Barring all strings at any given fret will yield a transposed version of this distinctive chord. For example, barring at the 2nd fret would produce a D voicing (D-A-D-A-G-D) with similar harmonic characteristics, essentially a Dadd11 or Dsus4 variant. The unique intervals, particularly the F-G relationship between the second and third strings, unlock possibilities for distinctive voicings and melodic movements that are generally not found in standard tuning or more common open tunings. This tuning is exceptionally well-suited for percussive techniques, intricate arpeggios, and expressive strumming, allowing the notes to ring out and interweave beautifully.

How to Tune

To transform your guitar from standard E Standard tuning into the Ben Howard "Esmerelda" tuning, carefully follow these steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to reach C2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to reach G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to reach C3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains at G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 6 semitones to reach F3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 4 semitones to reach C4.

Important Note: Significant tuning alterations, especially those involving movements of 4 or more semitones (such as on String 6, String 2, and String 1 in this tuning), can significantly impact string tension, intonation, and neck relief. To ensure optimal playability, maintain good intonation, and prevent potential string breakage or guitar setup issues, it is often advisable to consider using a heavier gauge of strings if you plan to regularly use tunings with such drastic downward movements.

String 6: C2 (The lowest pitch string)

String 5: G2

String 4: C3

String 3: G3

String 2: F3

String 1: C4 (The highest pitch string)