This 'Raised G' tuning for guitar presents a thoughtful modification of the standard E-A-D-G-B-E setup, specifically by tuning the 3rd string (G) up one semitone to G#. This seemingly subtle change has significant implications for playability and harmonic possibilities, particularly for guitarists operating in the key of E Major.

Technical Overview

• Instrument Type: Guitar
• Standard Reference: The tuning largely maintains the familiar intervals of standard tuning, with the critical exception of the G string.
• Key Alteration: The 3rd string is raised from G to G#, transforming the open string into the major third of the E scale.
• Full Tuning Structure: E2 A2 D3 G4# B3 E4

Verbal Analysis & Musical Implications

The core advantage of the 'Raised G' tuning lies in its ability to simplify and enrich playing in E Major. By raising the G string to G#, the open 3rd string now perfectly embodies the major third of E. This makes the E Major chord remarkably accessible and resonant. For instance, the common E Major chord shape, which typically requires three fingers in standard tuning (fretting the A, D, and G strings), can now be played with only two fingers (on the A and D strings), as the G# is available as an open string. This results in a full, bright, and easy-to-play open E Major chord (E-B-E-G#-B-E).

Beyond E Major, this tuning also facilitates certain chord extensions and voicings. As the original description notes, Amaj7 chords, for example, can become easier to fret or discover due to the open G# acting as a natural major seventh. This adjustment allows for new harmonic textures and ergonomic fingerings, particularly appealing for genres like folk, country, or rock where open string drones and resonant chords are highly valued. Players will, however, need to adapt their chord shapes and scale patterns that rely on the standard G note, as it is now consistently a G#.

How to Tune Your Guitar to Raised G

To set your guitar to the 'Raised G' tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these specific string adjustments:

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

Important Note on String Tension: When tuning, always exercise caution. Tuning a string significantly up (e.g., more than 3 or 4 semitones) can increase string tension beyond safe limits, potentially damaging your strings or instrument. Conversely, tuning down too much can lead to excessively loose strings, causing fret buzz. For substantial tuning deviations, it is highly recommended to consider a change in string gauge to maintain optimal playability and guitar health. In the case of 'Raised G' tuning, only one string is adjusted by a single semitone, making it generally safe for most standard gauge strings.

6th String (Lowest): E2

5th String: A2

4th String: D3

3rd String: G4#

2nd String: B3

1st String (Highest): E4