This is the Cello Extended Quintal tuning, a unique and expansive setup for a 6-string instrument, as indicated by the instrument type "Cello". While traditional cellos are 4-string instruments, this tuning extends the lower range and adds additional high strings, offering a broad sonic palette that combines deep resonance with melodic flexibility.

Verbal Analysis

The tuning features an incredibly deep foundation with a low C2 on the 6th string, immediately setting a resonant, orchestral tone. The most striking characteristic is the unison G2 on both the 5th and 4th strings. This creates a powerful, sustained drone capability, adding immense body and richness to the bass register, perfect for ambient textures or heavy, driving rhythms.

Moving up, strings 3, 2, and 1 are tuned to D3, A3, and E4 respectively. This sequence (G-D-A-E from string 5 to 1, or D-A-E from string 3 to 1) establishes a series of perfect fifths, reminiscent of violin-family string intervals. This structure naturally lends itself to fluid melodic lines, easy chord voicings based on fifths, and open, ringing harmonies. The overall sound is grand and resonant, blending the deep thrum of a cello with the extended range and harmonic possibilities of a 6-string instrument.

Technical Analysis

• Notes: C2 G2 G2 D3 A3 E4 (from low to high string).
• Interval Structure (from string 6 to 1):
  • String 6 (C2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect Fifth (P5)
  • String 5 (G2) to String 4 (G2): Unison
  • String 4 (G2) to String 3 (D3): Perfect Fifth (P5)
  • String 3 (D3) to String 2 (A3): Perfect Fifth (P5)
  • String 2 (A3) to String 1 (E4): Perfect Fifth (P5)
• The open strings C, G, G, D, A, E form a complex, rich voicing. When combined, these notes essentially create an extended C major harmony: a Cmaj13(add9) chord (C, E, G, D, A) with the G doubled at the second octave. This makes strumming all open strings produce a full, consonant sound, albeit with a unique character due to the spread voicings and doubled G.

Open Chords and Playability

• C Major 13(add9): Strumming all open strings yields a lush and complex C major extended chord. This provides a rich harmonic bed without any fretting.
• Drone Power: The doubled G2 strings are ideal for creating powerful drones, especially for modern classical, folk, or experimental music.
• Stacked Fifths: The prevalence of perfect fifths across strings 5-1 (G-G-D-A-E) makes it very easy to create "power chord" voicings by simply fretting one finger across multiple strings or using two fingers for simple two-note fifths. This also simplifies navigating scales and arpeggios that emphasize fifths.
• Bass Foundations: The C2 and G2 provide an exceptionally deep bass register, suitable for supporting intricate melodies or for creating thick, orchestral textures.
• Melodic Freedom: The consistent intervals between higher strings encourage melodic exploration with predictable finger patterns.

String 6 (Lowest String): Tuned to C2. This is a very deep bass note, providing a strong foundation for the tuning.

String 5: Tuned to G2. This note forms a perfect fifth above the C2 on String 6.

String 4: Tuned to G2. This string is a unison with String 5, creating a rich, resonant drone effect.

String 3: Tuned to D3. This note is a perfect fifth above the G2 on String 4 (and 5).

String 2: Tuned to A3. This note is a perfect fifth above the D3 on String 3.

String 1 (Highest String): Tuned to E4. This note is a perfect fifth above the A3 on String 2, providing the highest voice in the tuning.

How to Tune

To achieve the Cello Extended Quintal tuning, please follow these specific adjustments for each string:

• String 6 (C2): Tune down 4 semitones. (Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop; exercise care to maintain tension.)
• String 5 (G2): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 4 (G2): Tune down 7 semitones. Caution: This is a substantial drop. For optimal string tension and to prevent potential damage, a different string gauge is highly advised for this string.
• String 3 (D3): Tune down 5 semitones. Caution: This is a significant drop. For optimal string tension and to prevent potential damage, a different string gauge is highly advised for this string.
• String 2 (A3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 1 (E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Always tune carefully and ensure your instrument can handle the changes in string tension. For drops exceeding 4 semitones, considering a heavier gauge string is highly recommended for better playability and to maintain string integrity.