The "Monsoon tuning" is an exquisite and harmonically rich modification, described by its creator as a variant of a "cloud tuning" with a feel reminiscent of a 1-fret capo. This tuning immediately greets the ear with a full Emaj9 chord on open strings, creating an incredibly melodic and airy soundscape.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes, as specified in this tuning, are E2, G3#, D4#, F4#, B3, E4. When arranged harmonically (E, G#, B, D#, F#), these notes clearly form an E major ninth chord. The specific voicing of this open chord is particularly lush: E2 (root) on the lowest string, followed by G3# (major third), D4# (major seventh), F4# (major ninth), B3 (perfect fifth), and E4 (octave root) on the highest string. This wide intervallic spread, especially with the higher major seventh and major ninth, contributes significantly to its described "melodic and airy" quality, allowing for rich, complex voicings without any fretting.

This arrangement provides a broad harmonic foundation, making it an excellent choice for genres that benefit from sustained, resonant chords, such as ambient music, modern jazz, and intricate fingerstyle compositions. The non-linear progression of intervals across the strings (R-M3-M7-M9-P5-R) encourages unique melodic and harmonic approaches.

Chords and Playability

One of the most appealing aspects of the Monsoon tuning is the immediate availability of a full Emaj9 chord simply by strumming the open strings. This allows for effortless transposition of this beautiful chord to any key across the neck by simply barring all strings at a desired fret (e.g., Fmaj9 at the 1st fret, Gmaj9 at the 3rd fret). This characteristic significantly simplifies playing complex jazz voicings and encourages creative exploration of melodic lines over a consistently rich major 9th harmony.

The presence of B3 and E4 on the 2nd and 1st strings, respectively, which are standard notes, means that familiar lead lines, arpeggios, and chord fragments on the higher strings can be readily integrated, providing a bridge to conventional playing. Players are also invited to experiment with minor alterations to the G#, D#, and F# to explore related dominant 7th, minor 9th, or suspended qualities, opening up a vast landscape for creative expression. This tuning invites a less conventional approach to chord voicings and arpeggiation, making it a unique tool for composers and improvisers seeking fresh harmonic textures and a deeply resonant sound.

How to Tune to Monsoon Tuning

To achieve the Monsoon tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, please follow these precise instructions for each string. Remember to tune carefully and check pitch frequently:

• String 6 (Low E): Starting from standard E2, the instruction is to Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string will remain at E2.
• String 5 (A): Starting from standard A2, the instruction is to Tune down 1 semitone. The string will be tuned to G#2.
• String 4 (D): Starting from standard D3, the instruction is to Tune up 1 semitone. The string will be tuned to D#3. (Caution: Tuning up, even by a single semitone, increases string tension; always proceed carefully and check intonation.)
• String 3 (G): Starting from standard G3, the instruction is to Tune down 1 semitone. The string will be tuned to F#3.
• String 2 (B): Starting from standard B3, the instruction is to Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string will remain at B3.
• String 1 (High E): Starting from standard E4, the instruction is to Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string will remain at E4.

Note on string gauge: The individual string movements for this tuning are relatively small (a maximum of 1 semitone up or down). Therefore, a change in string gauge is generally not required, but it is always advisable to monitor string tension and intonation, especially with any upward tuning adjustments.