The 'Eclipse' tuning for guitar is a captivating and deeply resonant open tuning, perfectly suited for the rich tapestry of Celtic and modal music. This tuning invites players into a soundscape that is both ancient and evocative, characterized by its open fifths, minor thirds, and rich, droning qualities.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to D2-A2-C3-F3-G3-C4 (from low to high). This unique arrangement immediately establishes a D modal harmony when all strings are strummed open. The presence of D, A, and F forms a clear D minor triad, while the addition of C (the minor seventh) and G (the perfect fourth) creates a sound reminiscent of a D minor 7 (sus4) chord or, more broadly, a D Dorian mode. The repeated C notes on the 4th and 1st strings, combined with the D-A perfect fifth on the lowest strings, provide a solid, droning foundation typical of Celtic folk music.

This tuning makes several chords easily accessible and encourages an open, flowing playing style:

• An open strum across all strings yields a rich D modal harmony (D-A-C-F-G-C), perfect for introspective or expansive pieces, and highly characteristic of its Celtic and Modal influences.
• The lowest two strings (D2-A2) naturally form a powerful D5 chord (power chord). Similarly, the 4th and 2nd strings (C3-G3) provide a strong C5.
• A D minor triad (D-A-F) can be easily voiced using the 6th, 5th, and 3rd strings respectively.
• The top three strings (F3-G3-C4) offer intriguing melodic and harmonic possibilities, with the G3-C4 forming a perfect fourth, a common interval in modal music.
• The presence of two C notes (C3 and C4) makes it very easy to establish a C major or C minor tonality within the tuning by fretting other notes.

How to Tune:

To achieve the 'Eclipse' tuning, you will adjust your standard E-A-D-G-B-e tuning as follows. Please note the significant drops in pitch for some strings. For movements exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), consider if a different string gauge might be beneficial for optimal tension and tone, as the original string may become too slack.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from A2 to A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 2 semitones from G3 to F3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones from B3 to G3. (Note: This is a significant pitch drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for better tension and tone.)
• 1st String (High e): Tune down 4 semitones from E4 to C4. (Note: This is a significant pitch drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for better tension and tone.)