This unique guitar tuning, named "rona hartriant," resonates with an introspective and complex character, echoing the sentiment of its descriptive phrase: "every question i withhold every answer you never told eleventwelfth." It's a highly unconventional tuning that moves far beyond standard guitar voicings, offering rich sonic textures for the adventurous player.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are set to E2, B2, D3, F#4, A3, D4, from the lowest (6th string) to the highest (1st string) as they appear on the instrument. This specific arrangement reveals several striking features:

• The lowest three strings (E2, B2, D3) form an E minor triad (E-B-D), providing a grounded, somewhat melancholic foundation. The interval from String 6 (E2) to String 5 (B2) is a Perfect 5th (7 semitones), and from String 5 (B2) to String 4 (D3) is a Minor 3rd (3 semitones).
• A prominent characteristic is the dramatic intervallic leap from String 4 (D3) to String 3 (F#4). This is a Major 6th plus an octave (16 semitones), creating an exceptionally open and almost harp-like quality on the upper register.
• Perhaps the most unconventional aspect is the tuning of String 2 (A3) lower in pitch than String 3 (F#4). Specifically, String 3 (F#4) to String 2 (A3) is a descending Major 6th (-9 semitones). This non-linear string order fundamentally alters the fretboard logic, making traditional chord shapes impractical and encouraging unique voicings, arpeggiations, and melodic explorations.
• The highest string, String 1 (D4), is tuned a Perfect 4th (5 semitones) above String 2 (A3).

Harmonic & Playing Observations

When all strings are played open, the tuning produces an E minor 11th harmony (E-B-D-F#-A, with a D an octave higher). This is a sophisticated, resonant sound that avoids simple major or minor qualities. Due to the wide intervals and the unexpected pitch order of the higher strings, this tuning is ill-suited for conventional strumming. Instead, it invites a more deliberate, fingerstyle approach, focusing on arpeggios, drones, and melodic lines that exploit the unique intervallic relationships.

The strong E minor foundation on the lower strings offers a stable base for reflective or atmospheric pieces. The dramatic higher string arrangement suggests opportunities for shimmering textures, bell-like tones, and sparse, evocative melodies. This tuning would excel in genres like ambient, progressive folk, or experimental music where traditional harmonic structures are deconstructed and new sonic landscapes are desired.

How to Tune

To achieve the "rona hartriant" tuning, adjust each string as described below. These instructions are based on the specific movements required to reach the target pitch for each string. Always tune with care, making small, gradual adjustments to avoid string breakage and ensure accurate pitch.

• 6th String (Low E): Target E2. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 5th String: Target B2. Tune up 2 semitones.
• 4th String: Target D3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String: Target F#4. Tune down 1 semitones.
• 2nd String: Target A3. Tune down 2 semitones.
• 1st String (High E): Target D4. Tune down 2 semitones.

The maximum string movement in this tuning is 2 semitones (either up or down). For these adjustments, your standard string gauge should generally be suitable. However, it's always prudent to exercise caution when changing string tension significantly to prevent any risk of string breakage or potential damage to your instrument.

• 6th String (Low E): E2
• 5th String (A): B2
• 4th String (D): D3
• 3rd String (G): F#4
• 2nd String (B): A3
• 1st String (High E): D4