The "Avril 14th" tuning is specifically designed as the easiest and best way to play the intricate piece "Avril 14th" by Aphex Twin on guitar. This unique open tuning creates a distinctive sonic landscape that supports the delicate melodic and harmonic nuances of the composition, allowing guitarists to capture the song's ethereal quality.

Technical Analysis

This tuning is based on a foundation of C and G, with significant alterations from standard EADGBe. The open strings are tuned to C2-G2-D3-G3-B3-G#4 (low to high). This translates to:

• The 6th string (low E) is dropped a major third (4 semitones) to C2.
• The 5th string (A) is dropped a whole step (2 semitones) to G2.
• The 4th string (D), 3rd string (G), and 2nd string (B) remain at their standard pitch (D3, G3, B3 respectively).
• The 1st string (high E) is raised a major third (4 semitones) to G#4.

Harmonically, the open tuning presents a complex and evocative palette. The lowest three strings (C-G-D) form a C suspended 2nd chord (C-D-G inversion), providing a deep, resonant base. The middle strings (D-G-B) contain elements of a G major triad. However, the inclusion of the G# on the highest string (C-G-D-G-B-G#) creates a distinct tension. When played openly, the tuning hints at a G augmented triad (G-B-G#) on the upper register, contrasting with the lower strings. This specific combination suggests that the tuning is primarily intended for arpeggiated fingerstyle passages and specific voicings rather than broad, open strummed chords. The close proximity of G natural (3rd string) and G# (1st string) offers unique dissonances and expressive possibilities characteristic of Aphex Twin's intricate harmonic language.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "Avril 14th" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise adjustments for each string:

• 6th String (Low E to C2): Tune down 4 semitones. This is a significant drop; it is advisable to use a heavier gauge string for the 6th string, or proceed with caution to avoid intonation issues and excessive string floppiness.
• 5th String (A to G2): Tune down 2 semitones.
• 4th String (D to D3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G to G3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B to B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E to G#4): Tune up 4 semitones. Tuning a string up by 4 semitones increases tension considerably. It is highly recommended to use a lighter gauge string for the 1st string to prevent breakage and potential neck damage due to the increased tension.

6th String: C2 (Tune down 4 semitones from standard E2)

5th String: G2 (Tune down 2 semitones from standard A2)

4th String: D3 (No change from standard D3)

3rd String: G3 (No change from standard G3)

2nd String: B3 (No change from standard B3)

1st String: G#4 (Tune up 4 semitones from standard E4)