A Unique Voice for the Oud: The DGADGC Tuning

This distinctive DGADGC tuning, specifically designed for the Oud, offers a rich, resonant soundscape, particularly suited for various Arabic musical expressions as described by its user. It deviates from many traditional Oud tunings, suggesting a personalized approach to exploring the instrument's harmonic and melodic capabilities.

Verbal Analysis

Upon first strum, the open DGADGC tuning presents a full and somewhat melancholic sound, immediately establishing a minor or suspended tonality. The abundance of D, G, A, and C notes across the strings provides a foundational resonance that can lend itself beautifully to modal playing, characteristic of Arabic music. The low D and G give a deep base, while the higher G and C strings allow for bright melodic lines and rich upper harmonies. It evokes a contemplative mood, ideal for expressive improvisations and intricate melodic phrasing.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned as follows, from lowest to highest: D2, G2, A2, D3, G3, C4. Analyzing the intervals between consecutive strings:

• String 6 (D2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 5 (G2) to String 4 (A2): Major 2nd (M2)
• String 4 (A2) to String 3 (D3): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 3 (D3) to String 2 (G3): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 2 (G3) to String 1 (C4): Perfect 4th (P4)

This combination of intervals creates an intriguing harmonic structure. The repeating P4 intervals on the top four strings (A2-D3, D3-G3, G3-C4) offer a consistent pattern for scale navigation and chord voicings, while the Major 2nd between G2 and A2 introduces a unique tension and color. Collectively, the open strings form a Dsus4(add b7) chord (D-G-A-C), which provides a stable, yet open-ended harmonic canvas for exploration.

Chords and Harmonic Possibilities

The open DGADGC tuning naturally resonates with a Dsus4(add b7) harmony (D, G, A, C). This provides an excellent foundation for D minor or D Dorian modes, common in Arabic music. Due to the open D and G strings, chords based around D minor, G major, or C major can be easily voiced. For instance, an open D minor triad (D-F-A) can be achieved by fretting the F on the G string (String 5, 3rd fret) and the A on the A string (String 4, open). The parallel Perfect 4ths on the upper strings (A2-D3, D3-G3, G3-C4) make it relatively easy to transpose certain chord shapes or melodic patterns typically found in other P4-based tunings. This tuning invites experimentation with drone notes and sustained harmonies, allowing the rich timbres of the Oud to shine through in traditional maqamat or contemporary compositions.

How to Tune Your Oud to DGADGC

To achieve this specific DGADGC tuning, you will be adjusting your Oud strings from what appears to be a standard guitar tuning (EADGBe) as a reference. Please proceed with caution, especially when tuning down significantly, as string tension changes can affect your instrument.

• String 6 (Lowest): From E2, tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: From A2, tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4: From D3, tune down 5 semitones to A2. (Important Note: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant adjustment. Consider using a different gauge string if this tuning is to be permanent, to maintain optimal tension and instrument health.)
• String 3: From G3, tune down 5 semitones to D3. (Important Note: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant adjustment. Consider using a different gauge string if this tuning is to be permanent, to maintain optimal tension and instrument health.)
• String 2: From B3, tune down 4 semitones to G3. (Important Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a substantial adjustment. Consider using a different gauge string if this tuning is to be permanent, to maintain optimal tension and instrument health.)
• String 1 (Highest): From E4, tune down 4 semitones to C4. (Important Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a substantial adjustment. Consider using a different gauge string if this tuning is to be permanent, to maintain optimal tension and instrument health.)

When tuning down multiple semitones, ensure your strings remain seated correctly in the nut and bridge. Always tune slowly and check the pitch with a reliable tuner.