This unique tuning, aptly named 'Andy Mckee Safe A string', is a thoughtful transposition of tunings used by the renowned fingerstyle guitarist Andy McKee for his pieces such as "For My Father", "Rylynn", and "Keys to the Hovercar". The primary design philosophy behind this particular configuration is to offer a "safe" approach to these tunings by transposing them down 3 half steps overall, ensuring that no strings are tuned higher than their standard pitch. This reduces the risk of string breakage and makes the tuning more accessible for a wider range of guitars and string gauges.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes are (from low to high): C#3, A2, B2, E3, F#4, B3. This is a highly unconventional and interesting arrangement of pitches across the fretboard.

• Overall Tonal Center: The collection of notes present (A, B, C#, E, F# across different octaves) strongly suggests an A major tonality. The arrangement of these notes creates a rich, extended harmonic palette.
• Chordal Implications: When played open, the tuning evokes complex, open voicings akin to an A Major 6/9 or even an A Major 13 chord (A C# E F# B) with the root (A) not necessarily on the lowest string, but prominent throughout. The lower strings (C#3, A2, B2, E3) provide a solid, resonant base, while the higher strings (F#4, B3) add sparkle and chime.
• Unique String Inversions: A particularly distinctive feature of this tuning is the non-linear pitch progression at the higher end. The 1st string (B3) is tuned lower than the 2nd string (F#4). This creates an inverted interval, allowing for unique drone possibilities, harmonic clusters, and interesting melodic leaps that would be impossible in standard or more common open tunings.
• Playability: This tuning is exceptionally well-suited for percussive fingerstyle techniques, allowing for a wide array of sympathetic resonances and harmonics. While standard chord shapes will need significant adjustment, the open strings themselves offer a vast soundscape for exploration, making it a favorite for modern acoustic guitarists seeking unique textures and voicings.

Tuning Notes (from 6th String to 1st String)

The target notes for each string are:

• 6th String (Low E): C#3
• 5th String (A): A2
• 4th String (D): B2
• 3rd String (G): E3
• 2nd String (B): F#4
• 1st String (High E): B3

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the 'Andy Mckee Safe A string' tuning, please follow these specific adjustments from standard guitar tuning. Ensure your guitar is in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) before making these changes.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 3 semitones to C#3.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 3 semitones to B2.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 5 semitones to F#4. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change from standard B3. If this feels too loose or causes intonation issues, consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal playability and tone.)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 5 semitones to B3. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change from standard E4. If this feels too loose or causes intonation issues, consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal playability and tone.)