The Unison Lute tuning is a unique and resonant variation for the Lute, characterized by the striking unison tuning of its fourth and fifth strings to B. This specific arrangement fundamentally reshapes the instrument's harmonic landscape, offering a distinctive sonic palette.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning evokes a rich, almost ancient quality, well-suited for drone-based music, early music compositions, or modern interpretations seeking an open, resonant sound. The double B provides a powerful, sustained fifth, giving the overall tuning a strong foundation. Without a major or minor third (G# or G) in its open state, the tuning possesses a beautifully ambiguous and open character, making it versatile for various modal explorations. It feels both robust and ethereal, with the high F# adding a bright, piercing quality that can create interesting tension or sparkle against the deep E and resonant B notes. Players will find this tuning particularly inspiring for arpeggiated figures and melodic lines that emphasize the open string resonance.

Technical Analysis

• Open Notes: E2 - B2 - B2 - F#4 - B3 - E4
• Interval Structure: From the lowest E2, the tuning presents a perfect fifth (B2), followed by another perfect fifth in unison (B2). The subsequent strings are a high F#4 (a major second/ninth relative to E), a mid B3 (an octave higher perfect fifth), and finally, a high E4 (an octave higher root).
• Chordal Implications: The open strings form an Eadd9(no3) chord (E - B - F#). This provides a strong, powerful harmonic foundation that is neither major nor minor, offering flexibility for modal playing. The unison B strings (5th and 4th) create a compelling resonance, enhancing the fifth degree of the E chord. This structure makes power chords (E5, B5) readily available across the lower strings. Fretting the 3rd string (currently F#) at the 1st fret (G) or 2nd fret (G#) would easily transform the open sound into an E minor or E major chord, respectively, providing quick access to these fundamental harmonies. The high F# also allows for interesting voicings and suspensions.

How to Tune

To achieve the Unison Lute tuning, follow these adjustments from your standard tuning:

• String 6 (E2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 5 (B2): Tune up 2 semitones.
• String 4 (B2): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 3 (F#4): Tune down 1 semitone.
• String 2 (B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 1 (E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Note: While the adjustments for this tuning are generally moderate, always tune carefully. For any string movement exceeding 4 semitones up or down, it's generally advisable to consider using a different gauge string to prevent undue tension or slack, though in this specific tuning, the largest adjustment is 3 semitones, which should be manageable with standard strings.

String 6: E2 (Lowest String)

String 5: B2 (Unison with String 4)

String 4: B2 (Unison with String 5)

String 3: F#4 (High F Sharp)

String 2: B3 (Mid B)

String 1: E4 (Highest String)