Open C Major Tuning Analysis

This unique 'Open Cmaj' tuning transforms your guitar into a rich, resonant instrument, perfectly voiced for the key of C Major. As described by its creator, this is a distinct variation from the Open C6 tuning, offering fresh sonic possibilities.

Verbal Description

With the open strings ringing out a full C Major chord (C-G-E-G-C-E), this tuning provides an immediate sense of harmonic richness. Its creator notes that it has "nice descending lines built into," suggesting it lends itself well to melodic exploration and arpeggiated patterns, especially given the broad range from the low C2 to the high E4. It "picks well," implying clarity and separation of notes, making it excellent for fingerstyle or intricate lead work where individual notes need to shine. However, the creator also mentions it "strums a touch dissonant." This perception might arise from the wide voicings or specific overtones when all strings are strummed vigorously, creating a raw, authentic character rather than a perfectly blended, traditional sound. This quality invites careful strumming technique and experimentation to uncover its full potential, adding depth and a unique sonic signature.

Technical Breakdown

The open string notes of this tuning are:

• String 6: C2 - The fundamental root, providing a deep, foundational bass.
• String 5: G2 - A perfect fifth above the root, adding harmonic stability in the lower register.
• String 4: E3 - The major third, which immediately establishes the bright C Major tonality.
• String 3: G3 - An octave higher than the 5th, reinforcing the harmony and adding richness to the mid-range.
• String 2: C4 - An octave higher than the root, completing the triad in a higher register.
• String 1: E4 - Another major third, offering brilliance and sustain to the higher voicings.

This arrangement spells out a complete C Major chord (C-G-E-G-C-E) across all six strings. The intervals create a wide, open sound, with two Cs, two Gs, and two Es spanning over two octaves, providing a very full and resonant sound when played open.

Chordal Possibilities

The most immediate advantage of this tuning is the open C Major chord, which rings out beautifully without any fretting. This makes it perfect for drone-based music, blues, folk, or simple accompaniment in C. Other easy chords include:

• Major Chords: By barring all six strings at any single fret, you can effortlessly play any Major chord up and down the neck (e.g., barring at the 1st fret yields a C# Major, 2nd fret a D Major, 3rd fret an Eb Major, and so on).
• Minor Chords: Minor chords can be achieved by flattening the E notes to Eb. For example, to play a C minor, you would need to fret the E notes on String 4 and String 1 at the 3rd fret.
• Creative Voicings: The unique string intervals allow for interesting arpeggios and partial chords. For instance, the low C-G-E on strings 6-5-4 provides a solid bass triad, while the higher G-C-E on strings 3-2-1 offers a lighter, bell-like voicing. Experiment with simple two or three-finger shapes to discover rich, harmonic textures and voicings that are unique to this open tuning.

Tuning Notes & 'How to Tune' Guide

Here's a detailed breakdown of each string's target note for Open Cmaj and how to achieve this tuning from standard EADGBe.

Target Tuning Notes:

String 6 (Low E): C2
String 5 (A): G2
String 4 (D): E3
String 3 (G): G3
String 2 (B): C4
String 1 (High E): E4

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe):

• String 6 (Low E): From its standard E2, tune down 4 semitones to C2. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. For optimal tension and tone, especially if playing in this tuning frequently, consider using a heavier gauge string for your low E.
• String 5 (A): From its standard A2, tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): From its standard D3, tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• String 3 (G): From its standard G3, keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at G3.
• String 2 (B): From its standard B3, tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• String 1 (High E): From its standard E4, keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at E4.