Tuning Analysis: CG#CGCF

This is a unique and highly custom tuning, as suggested by its creator. It deviates significantly from standard guitar tuning, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that are particularly well-suited for fingerstyle playing, where the open strings can resonate to create complex harmonic textures.

Verbal Analysis

The tuning establishes a strong, resonant foundation in C, with the low C2 and C3 strings providing a powerful root. The G3 and C4 further reinforce this C tonality, creating a sense of openness and depth. However, the introduction of G#3 on the 5th string is the defining characteristic of this tuning, lending it an exotic, slightly dissonant, or augmented quality. It's a note that can create tension or lead to unexpected harmonic resolutions. The highest string, F4, then adds a suspended or dominant flavor, moving away from a simple major or minor triad.

For a player, this tuning would feel expansive and open. The prominent intervals of perfect fourths (G3-C4, C4-F4) and perfect fifths (C3-G3) on the higher strings make for easy access to power chords and drone-like sounds, especially when incorporating the open C strings. The G# acts as a wildcard, offering opportunities for unusual voicings and chromatic movements that could be very expressive in fingerstyle. It invites exploration outside of traditional chord shapes.

Technical Analysis

• Open String Notes: C2 - G#3 - C3 - G3 - C4 - F4
• Intervals from lowest string:
  • C2 (6th string) to G#3 (5th string): Augmented 5th (+1 octave)
  • C2 (6th string) to C3 (4th string): Perfect Octave
  • C2 (6th string) to G3 (3rd string): Perfect 5th (+1 octave)
  • C2 (6th string) to C4 (2nd string): Perfect Octave (+1 octave)
  • C2 (6th string) to F4 (1st string): Perfect 4th (+2 octaves)
• Harmonic Content: The open strings present the notes C, G#, G, F. This combination creates a complex sonority that isn't a simple major or minor chord. It hints at a C augmented triad (C-E-G#) with the E omitted, or a C7#5 with the E omitted (C-G-G#-F). More abstractly, it combines elements of C major (C, G) with an augmented quality (G#) and a suspended/dominant quality (F).
• Chordal Possibilities:
  • Open C Power Chord: By muting the 5th (G#) and 1st (F) strings, the remaining C-C-G-C provides a very strong and resonant C power chord across multiple octaves.
  • Csus4 or C7sus4 (partial): The C-G-C-F strings (excluding G#) hint at a C sus4 or C7sus4 sound.
  • Exotic or Augmented Chords: The G# opens up possibilities for augmented triads or chords with a sharpened fifth, such as C+ (C-E-G#) if an E is fretted, or C7#5 (C-E-G#-Bb) with appropriate fingerings. The interval of a minor third between G# and C (on 5th and 4th string, albeit G# higher) creates interesting voice leading potential.
  • Droning Potential: The repeated C notes (C2, C3, C4) make this an excellent tuning for droning notes, especially with the 3rd (G) and 1st (F) strings creating tension or resolution against the root.

How to Tune

Carefully follow these instructions to adjust your guitar to the CG#CGCF tuning. Always tune slowly and precisely to avoid over-tensioning your strings.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. Consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tone and tension if this is a permanent tuning.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 1 semitone to G#3.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 1 semitone to F4.