Verbal Analysis

The FCDGCE tuning is a vibrant and harmonically rich configuration, ideally suited for the intricate and often dissonant soundscapes of math-rock and emo guitar. As noted by its originator, Stephen Hazel of "Let's Talk About Math Rock," this tuning pushes the boundaries, offering unique voicings that diverge significantly from standard tuning. It encourages exploration of open string ringing and complex arpeggios, which are hallmarks of these genres.

A crucial point to consider with this tuning is the significant tension increase on the 5th (A) string, which is tuned up three semitones to C. This carries a higher risk of string breakage, and players should exercise caution or consider using a lighter gauge string for the 5th string if they plan to use this tuning frequently.

Technical Analysis

The open strings for FCDGCE are (from low to high): F2 C3 D3 G3 C4 E4.

This tuning presents a fascinating harmonic landscape:

• The low F2 provides a deep root, creating a strong foundation.
• The interval between the 6th (F) and 5th (C) strings is a perfect fifth, a classic strong interval.
• The next three strings (C3 D3 G3) create an interesting cluster, with a major second (C-D) followed by a perfect fourth (D-G).
• The G3 to C4 interval is another perfect fourth, which, combined with the D3, gives a sense of quartal harmony in the middle register.
• The high C4 to E4 is a major third, adding brightness to the higher end.

When played open, this tuning forms a complex chord that can be interpreted in several ways. The notes present are F, C, D, G, E. This contains a C major triad (C-E-G), plus a D (the 9th of C) and an F (the 4th or 11th of C, or the root if viewed as an F chord). This gives the open tuning a lush, extended quality, perhaps a Cadd9sus4 or Cmaj9/F voicing, or even an Fmaj7#11 depending on harmonic context.

The repeated C notes (C3 and C4) across two octaves provide a strong tonal center, while the D and G add interesting suspended and extended qualities. This makes the tuning excellent for creating spacious, arpeggiated textures and dissonant-yet-beautiful chord voicings without much effort. Standard chord shapes will be entirely recontextualized, encouraging players to discover new fingerings and melodic possibilities across the fretboard.

How to Tune

To achieve the FCDGCE tuning from standard E Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), follow these adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone from E to F.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 3 semitones from A to C. Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones places significant stress on the string. Consider using a lighter gauge string or proceed with care.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change to D (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change to G (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 1 semitone from B to C.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change to E (0 semitones).

For any string requiring a movement of 4 semitones or more (up or down), a change in string gauge is generally recommended to ensure optimal playability and to prevent string breakage or damage to your instrument. In this tuning, the 5th string (A to C, +3 semitones) is close to this threshold, so extra care is advised.

6th String: Tuned to F2 (F in the second octave).

5th String: Tuned to C3 (C in the third octave).

4th String: Tuned to D3 (D in the third octave).

3rd String: Tuned to G3 (G in the third octave).

2nd String: Tuned to C4 (C in the fourth octave).

1st String: Tuned to E4 (E in the fourth octave).