The tuning named "Dadd9" (though technically its open notes resolve to an Ebadd9) is designed to evoke a melancholic and sweet sound, making it particularly well-suited for intricate fingerpicking patterns. Its unique open voicings provide a rich harmonic palette for creative exploration.

Technical Analysis

In its open configuration, the guitar strings are tuned to D#2, A#2, D#3, G2, A#3, F3. When analyzed enharmonically, these notes correspond to Eb2, Bb2, Eb3, G2, Bb3, and F3. This specific set of notes forms an Ebadd9 chord. The chord's components are: Eb (root, on strings 6 and 4), G (Major 3rd, on string 3), Bb (Perfect 5th, on strings 5 and 2), and F (Major 9th, on string 1). The presence of the root and fifth across multiple strings provides a strong, full harmonic anchor. The G2 on the 3rd string, being an octave lower than standard G3, along with the F3 on the 1st string, introduces intriguing harmonic tensions and voicings that contribute to the described melancholic quality, especially when arpeggiated. This structure naturally supports compositions in keys related to Eb major or C minor.

The arrangement of notes allows for accessible chord shapes; for instance, barring any fret will produce an 'add9' chord rooted on that fret (e.g., barring the 1st fret yields an Eadd9). The inherent resonance from the open strings encourages open voicings and the exploration of new fingerings beyond conventional chord shapes.

How to Tune

To achieve the Dadd9 tuning, starting from standard EADGBE guitar tuning, follow these specific string adjustments. Please exercise caution with significant string tension changes. If a string requires tuning up or down by 4 or more semitones, it is generally advised to consider a different string gauge to ensure guitar integrity and optimal playability. The provided tuning movements are precise instructions; please ensure you are tuning to the target notes indicated.

• String 6 (Low E to D2#): Tune up 2 semitones. (From a standard E2, tuning up 2 semitones would typically result in F#2. Please ensure you are targeting D2#.) This movement is within a safe range.
• String 5 (A to A2#): Tune up 4 semitones. (From a standard A2, tuning up 4 semitones would typically result in C#3. Please ensure you are targeting A2#.) Tuning up 4 semitones is a significant tension increase; a different string gauge may be advised.
• String 4 (D to D3#): Tune up 4 semitones. (From a standard D3, tuning up 4 semitones would typically result in F#3. Please ensure you are targeting D3#.) Tuning up 4 semitones is a significant tension increase; a different string gauge may be advised.
• String 3 (G to G2): Tune up 3 semitones. (From a standard G3, tuning up 3 semitones would typically result in A#3. Please ensure you are targeting G2, which is an octave lower than G3.) This movement is within a safe range, but be aware of the octave change.
• String 2 (B to A3#): Tune up 1 semitone. (From a standard B3, tuning up 1 semitone would typically result in C4. Please ensure you are targeting A3#.) This movement is within a safe range.
• String 1 (High E to F3): Tune down 2 semitones. (From a standard E4, tuning down 2 semitones would typically result in D4. Please ensure you are targeting F3.) This movement is within a safe range, but be aware of the octave change.