This unique guitar tuning, named "Hearth's Shadow," is specifically designed for the piece by Andrew Prahlow, suggesting a sonic landscape tailored for atmospheric or cinematic composition.

Technical Analysis:

The open strings are tuned to D2-E3-A2-E3-A3-C5#. This sequence presents a rich and complex harmonic structure. Observing the intervals from the lowest string: D2 to E3 (major 9th), E3 to A2 (descending perfect 4th – an unusual jump!), A2 to E3 (perfect 5th), E3 to A3 (perfect 4th), and A3 to C5# (major 10th). The prevalence of A and E notes across different octaves creates a resonant, droning quality.

Upon strumming the open strings, the core harmony strongly implies an A Major chord (A, C#, E) through the combination of A2, E3, A3, and C5#. With the addition of the lowest D2, the overall harmony leans towards a Dmaj7(add9) sound (D, E, A, C#), offering a blend of major seventh warmth and open, suspended qualities from the added 9th (E). The unique octave displacement, especially the low D and the high C#, creates a broad, expansive soundscape perfect for ambient textures and evocative melodies.

How to Tune:

To achieve Hearth's Shadow tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5 (A String): Tune up 7 semitones to E3. Warning: Tuning up 7 semitones is a significant increase in tension. Consider a lighter gauge string to prevent breakage and neck damage.
• String 4 (D String): Tune down 5 semitones to A2. Warning: Tuning down 5 semitones significantly reduces string tension. A heavier gauge string may be advisable for better playability and intonation.
• String 3 (G String): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2 (B String): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 3 semitones. From a standard E4, this results in C#4. Note: The final target note specified for this tuning is C5#, which is an octave higher than C#4. Tuning a standard E4 string up by 9 semitones (to C#5) is extremely risky and likely to break the string or damage the instrument. It is highly recommended to tune to C#4 instead for safety and playability, or to verify the intended octave with the song's composer.

For any string movements exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), a different string gauge is generally advised to maintain optimal tension, intonation, and to prevent potential damage to your instrument or strings.