This unique guitar tuning, known as "TTNG - In praise of idleness," presents a distinctive sound palette favored by the band TTNG. It is designed to be played with a capo on the 3rd fret, which significantly influences its harmonic character and playability.

Technical Analysis (Open String Notes without Capo)

The fundamental tuning without the capo sets the open strings to:

• String 6 (Low E): E2
• String 5 (A string in standard): G2
• String 4 (D string in standard): D3
• String 3 (G string in standard): B3
• String 2 (B string in standard): A3
• String 1 (High E): D4

The open strings E2-G2-D3-B3-A3-D4 create an intriguing sonic landscape. At first glance, this is not a conventional major or minor chord tuning. The arrangement suggests an open, suspended, and somewhat melancholic feel. Notable intervals include a minor third between the 6th and 5th strings (E-G), a perfect fifth between the 5th and 4th strings (G-D), and a perfect fourth between the 2nd and 1st strings (A-D). The presence of D on both the 4th and 1st strings provides a resonant anchor.

Chordal Possibilities (Open String Notes without Capo)

Even without the capo, this tuning offers several interesting chordal possibilities:

• An E minor triad (E-G-B) can be formed by striking strings 6, 5, and 3, providing a dark and foundational minor sound.
• A G major triad (G-B-D) can be formed by striking strings 5, 3, and 1, or 4, 3, 1 (D G B D), offering a brighter contrast.
• A resonant D5 power chord (D-A-D) is available from strings 4, 2, and 1, providing strong, open fifths.
• When played together, the open strings form an extended chord structure resembling D6/9sus4 or Em7(add9, sus4), offering a complex, rich harmonic foundation for ambient and intricate fingerstyle passages.

Impact of Capo at 3rd Fret

Crucially, this tuning is designed to be played with a capo on the 3rd fret. This shifts the sounding open notes up by three semitones, transforming the open strings into:

• String 6: G2
• String 5: A#2 (Bb2)
• String 4: F3
• String 3: D4
• String 2: C4
• String 1: F4

With the capo engaged, the open strings beautifully form a G minor 7th chord with an added C (G-A#-C-D-F), effectively creating a G minor 7(add11) voicing. This provides a clear and melancholic harmonic center, perfect for the band's distinctive atmospheric sound.

Creative Potential

The close intervals between some strings (e.g., C4 and D4 on the 2nd and 3rd strings respectively, when capoed) invite drone-like qualities and dissonant harmonies that can be resolved into unique melodic lines. This tuning is ideal for exploring intricate arpeggios, tapping techniques, and open-string voicings that leverage its inherent harmonic richness and suspended nature. It leans towards genres like math rock, post-rock, and ambient music where unique textures and complex harmonies are paramount.

How to Tune to "TTNG - In praise of idleness"

This tuning is achieved by adjusting your guitar from standard E Standard tuning (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4). Please tune carefully, especially with significant string movements. The instructions below outline the changes required for each string:

• String 6 (Low E to E2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Stays at E2.
• String 5 (A to G2): Tune down 2 semitones. Adjust from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D to D3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Stays at D3.
• String 3 (G to B3): Tune up 4 semitones. Adjust from G3 to B3. Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones is a significant tension increase. For optimal playability and string longevity, consider using a different gauge string if you plan to keep this tuning for extended periods. Exceeding 4 semitones up or down often suggests a different string gauge for safety and tone.
• String 2 (B to A3): Tune down 2 semitones. Adjust from B3 to A3.
• String 1 (High E to D4): Tune down 2 semitones. Adjust from E4 to D4.

Always ensure your guitar is properly intonated after changing tunings, especially with significant string tension alterations, and apply the capo at the 3rd fret once tuned.

String 6 (Low E): E2

String 5 (A): G2

String 4 (D): D3

String 3 (G): B3

String 2 (B): A3

String 1 (High E): D4