Chandelier Tuning by Peter Gergely

The "Chandelier" tuning, popularized by Peter Gergely, is a highly distinctive and unconventional setup for the guitar. It transforms the instrument into a unique sonic palette, moving significantly away from standard EADGBe tuning. This tuning is particularly well-suited for intricate fingerstyle arrangements and compositions that aim for specific harmonic textures and melodic lines, rather than traditional open chord strumming.

Technical Analysis:

• Open Notes: E2 C3 G2 F3 G3 C4.
• Low E (String 6) remains at its standard E2 pitch, providing a familiar anchor.
• String 5 is tuned up a minor third from standard A2 to C3.
• String 4 undergoes a substantial drop of a perfect fifth from standard D3 to G2.
• String 3 is lowered a whole step from standard G3 to F3.
• String 2 is dropped a major third from standard B3 to G3.
• String 1 (High E) is also dropped a major third from standard E4 to C4.

This configuration results in a tuning with a distinct low-end foundation (E2, G2) and a compact cluster of notes (F3, G3, C4) in the upper register, creating close intervals that can be exploited for rich, resonant voicings. The G2-F3-G3 on strings 4, 3, 2 forms a Gsus4 flavor, while the C3, G2, C4 notes across strings 5, 4, 1 provide a strong C and G presence. This unusual blend allows for unique harmonic tension and release, making it ideal for expressive, often melancholic or ethereal compositions.

Chordal Opportunities:

While not immediately lending itself to strumming common open major or minor chords, the "Chandelier" tuning offers fascinating harmonic possibilities:

• C Major / G Major voicings: The open strings contain the notes C, E, G, F. Notably, C3, G2, C4 are present, forming a powerful C-G-C structure, implying a strong C or G root. By muting string 6 (E2) and string 3 (F3), you can achieve a resonant open C5 or G5 power chord feel.
• Sus chords and Clusters: The close proximity of F3, G3, C4 on strings 3, 2, 1 allows for easy voicings of suspended chords (e.g., Gsus4 with open strings 4, 3, 2: G2-F3-G3). Barre chords across the top three or four strings will yield unique clusters and extended chords.
• Modal Playability: The non-standard intervals between strings encourage a modal approach, where specific scale fragments and arpeggios can be easily executed, creating cascading and shimmering effects unique to this tuning.

How to Tune:

To achieve the "Chandelier" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Stays E2.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 3 semitones to C3. (Standard A2 up to C3)
• 4th String (D): Tune down 7 semitones to G2. (Standard D3 down to G2) This is a significant drop. Consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 2 semitones to F3. (Standard G3 down to F3)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3. (Standard B3 down to G3) Consider a slightly heavier gauge string to maintain good tension.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 4 semitones to C4. (Standard E4 down to C4) Consider a slightly heavier gauge string to maintain good tension.

Important Note: The significant drops on the 4th, 2nd, and 1st strings, and the substantial change on the 5th string mean you should tune carefully and consider adjusting your string gauge if you plan to use this tuning frequently. Large drops can lead to very loose strings, affecting intonation and playability, while large increases can risk string breakage or neck damage.

String 6: E2 (The lowest open string, an E in the second octave.)

String 5: C3 (A C note in the third octave.)

String 4: G2 (A G note in the second octave.)

String 3: F3 (An F note in the third octave.)

String 2: G3 (A G note in the third octave.)

String 1: C4 (The highest open string, a C note in the fourth octave.)