The CGDAE Cello-Guitar tuning is a unique and deeply resonant configuration, originally described as a "Fifths-tuned guitar conversion" for a Cittern. This tuning transforms the instrument into a powerhouse of open, orchestral sound, heavily influenced by the voicing of the cello and other instruments from the violin family.

Technical Analysis

This tuning establishes a pure interval of a perfect fifth between all adjacent strings, creating a wide and consistent harmonic framework:

• 5th String (lowest): C2
• 4th String: G2 (Perfect Fifth above C2)
• 3rd String: D3 (Perfect Fifth above G2)
• 2nd String: A3 (Perfect Fifth above D3)
• 1st String (highest): E4 (Perfect Fifth above A3)

This consistent P5 interval across the entire range provides a deep, resonant harmonic landscape, spanning nearly three octaves. The low C2 offers a profound bass foundation, while the high E4 extends into bright, melodic territory, echoing the expansive range found in bowed string instruments.

Playing Potential and Chords

The all-fifths interval structure radically redefines chord voicings and melodic possibilities on the instrument:

• Power Chords: Root-fifth power chords (perfect fifths) are exceptionally easy to form across any two adjacent strings by simply fretting the same fret. This makes heavy, driving riffs and open, ringing drones incredibly accessible and resonant.
• Open Voicings: The open strings (C, G, D, A, E) provide a rich palette for arpeggiated figures and modal compositions. The tuning naturally emphasizes perfect intervals, lending itself beautifully to classical, folk, and experimental music that benefits from open, clear sonorities.
• Chord Shapes: Traditional guitar chord shapes are largely unusable in this tuning, requiring players to discover entirely new fingerings. Major and minor triads will often require more stretching or specific two-finger shapes to form the necessary intervals. For example, a G Major chord (G-B-D) can be formed with the open 4th string (G2) and 3rd string (D3), then finding the B on the 3rd or 4th string, or even utilizing the 2nd string (A3) and fretting it up to B4.
• Melodic Playing: Scales and melodies will feel less 'boxed in' and encourage more horizontal movement across the fretboard, exploiting the consistent interval relationships. This can foster a more linear and less pattern-dependent approach to improvisation.

This tuning is ideal for players seeking an expansive sonic palette and a significant departure from conventional guitar voicings, offering a fresh perspective on harmony and melody.

How to Tune

To achieve the CGDAE tuning from a standard configuration, carefully adjust each string as follows:

• 5th String (lowest): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. This is a significant drop in pitch. For optimal string tension and playability, it is strongly advised to use a heavier gauge string for this position.
• 4th String: Tune down 2 semitones to G2. This is a moderate adjustment and should be manageable with standard string gauges.
• 3rd String: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at D3.
• 2nd String: Tune up 2 semitones to A3. This is a moderate increase in tension and should be fine with most standard string gauges.
• 1st String (highest): Tune up 5 semitones to E4. Tuning a string up by 5 semitones is a substantial increase in tension. A lighter gauge string is strongly recommended to prevent breakage and ensure the instrument's longevity. Exercise extreme caution during this adjustment and tune slowly.

The specific notes for the CGDAE Cello-Guitar tuning are:

The 5th string (lowest) is tuned to C2.

The 4th string is tuned to G2.

The 3rd string is tuned to D3.

The 2nd string is tuned to A3.

The 1st string (highest) is tuned to E4.