Verbal Analysis: Gm add 4 Tuning

This unique tuning, aptly named "Gm add 4," is a fascinating hybrid designed to marry the powerful low-end of D standard with the resonant, open character of Open G. The goal is to create a versatile tuning that excels in both heavy riffing and expansive chord voicings.

The open strings immediately present a rich, full-bodied Gm(add11) chord, specifically voiced as a Gm(add11) with the 5th (D) in the bass (D2-G2-C3-G3-A#4-D4). This gives it an inherently dark and moody minor quality, made even more massive by the low D and G strings. The inclusion of the C (a perfect 4th, or 11th) adds a touch of suspension or an '11th' character, making the open chord sound intricate and resonant without being muddy.

One of the most striking features is the ease of forming powerful barre chords. With the low three strings tuned to D-G-C, and the upper strings featuring a repeating G and D with an A# (Bb) in between, simple barring across the frets will yield substantial, harmonically rich minor chord shapes. The open G and D strings provide excellent drone opportunities for expressive playing. This tuning lends itself exceptionally well to genres requiring heavy, detuned riffs, but also has the harmonic depth for melodic and atmospheric compositions.

Technical Analysis: Gm add 4 Tuning

• Instrument Type: Guitar
• Tuning Notes: D2 G2 C3 G3 A#4 D4
• Open String Voicing: The open strings form a Gm(add11) chord with the 5th (D) in the bass. This chord contains the notes D, G, C, and A# (Bb). The arrangement of these notes provides a wide, resonant voicing:
  • 6th String (D2): Root's 5th / Octave
  • 5th String (G2): Root
  • 4th String (C3): Perfect 4th / 11th
  • 3rd String (G3): Root (Octave)
  • 2nd String (A#4): Minor 3rd (Bb)
  • 1st String (D4): Root's 5th (Octave)
• Interval Structure: From low to high strings, the intervals are:
  • D2 to G2: Perfect 4th
  • G2 to C3: Perfect 4th
  • C3 to G3: Perfect 4th
  • G3 to A#4 (Bb4): Minor 3rd
  • A#4 (Bb4) to D4: Perfect 4th
  This consistent P4 interval across the first four strings provides a predictable and powerful foundation for chord shapes, while the minor 3rd on the 2nd string defines the minor tonality.

How to Tune:

Achieving the Gm add 4 tuning from standard EADGBe requires adjusting several strings. Please refer to the specific movements below for each string. Given that all string movements are within the recommended range of -4 to +4 semitones, standard gauge strings should generally suffice without issue. However, for players who prefer a tighter string feel or more stability, especially on the lower notes, considering a slightly heavier gauge set can be beneficial.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 1 semitone to A#4 (Bb4).
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

6th String: D2 - Tuned down from standard E, providing a deep, resonant bass note.

5th String: G2 - Tuned down from standard A, establishing the root of the open minor chord.

4th String: C3 - Tuned down from standard D, introducing the perfect 4th (11th) of the G minor chord.

3rd String: G3 - Remains at standard G pitch, providing an octave of the open minor chord's root.

2nd String: A#4 (Bb4) - Tuned down from standard B, crucially providing the minor 3rd of the G minor chord.

1st String: D4 - Tuned down from standard E, completing the open chord with the 5th (D) in a higher octave.