Tuning Analysis: F C Major Open (FCEGCE)

This intriguing and experimental guitar tuning, internally referred to as 'FCEGCE', reshapes the standard EADGBe configuration to unlock a rich, resonant soundscape. As described in its original definition, it's an "Experimental tuning Cadd9 chord but with an added F in place of the low E", which provides a clear direction for its unique voice.

Verbal Analysis

The F C Major Open tuning is built upon a foundation of C Major (C-E-G-C-E) spanning the middle to high strings, which provides an immediate and familiar major tonality. The standout feature is the lowest string, which is tuned to F. This F acts as a powerful bass note or drone, dramatically influencing the harmonic character of the tuning. When strummed open, the combination of F-C-E-G-C-E creates a complex and resonant sound that hints at an Fmaj7 or Fmaj9 chord, as the C, E, and G notes fall within the F major scale and provide the 5th, major 7th, and 9th respectively (with an added C as the 5th an octave higher). This creates a very open, expansive, and almost modal sound, excellent for rich accompaniments, fingerstyle arpeggios, or sustained harmonic textures.

Open Chords and Harmonic Possibilities:

• Open C Major (with F bass): Strumming all strings yields a C Major chord, but with the F in the bass, it creates an immediate C/F (C major over F) or Fmaj7 quality, offering a deep and satisfying resolution.
• F Major / Fmaj7 / Fmaj9: Due to the F root and the subsequent C, E, and G notes, the tuning inherently suggests F major harmony. By fretting judiciously on other strings, clear F major, Fmaj7 (F-C-E-G-C-E is an Fmaj7sus4 with G acting as an 9th/11th, or an Fmaj9 chord), or Fmaj9 chords are readily achievable.
• Drone and Modal Play: The repeated C and E notes at different octaves, alongside the stable G, make this tuning highly suitable for drone-based music or exploring modal scales, allowing for melodic improvisation over a rich, sustained harmonic bed.
• Sus Chords and Extensions: The inherent intervals (e.g., G being the 5th of C and 9th of F) facilitate easy formation of suspended chords (sus2, sus4) or adding extensions to existing chords with minimal fretting, especially around the C and G notes.

Technical Analysis

This tuning applies to a standard 6-string Guitar. The open notes from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st) string are: F2, C3, E3, G3, C4, E4.

The intervallic structure from the low F is: P4 (F-C), M3 (C-E), m3 (E-G), P4 (G-C), M3 (C-E). This blend of perfect 4ths, major 3rds, and minor 3rds contributes to its unique harmonic character, moving away from simple stacked thirds or fourths.

When compared to the standard EADGBe tuning, the string adjustments required are as follows:

• 6th String (Low E) moves to F2 (Up 1 semitone)
• 5th String (A) moves to C3 (Up 3 semitones)
• 4th String (D) moves to E3 (Up 2 semitones)
• 3rd String (G) remains G3 (No change)
• 2nd String (B) moves to C4 (Up 1 semitone)
• 1st String (High E) remains E4 (No change)

All string movements involve tuning up, with the maximum adjustment being 3 semitones for the 5th string. These adjustments are generally within a safe range for standard guitar string gauges, which minimizes the risk of string breakage or undue stress on the instrument's neck. However, as with any alternate tuning, careful and gradual adjustment is always recommended.

How to Tune to F C Major Open (FCEGCE)

To correctly tune your guitar to the F C Major Open (FCEGCE) tuning, you will adjust your strings from the standard EADGBe configuration as described below. Always tune carefully, gradually, and listen closely to your guitar. If a tuning requires a string to move more than 4 semitones up or down, it is generally advisable to consider using a different string gauge to ensure instrument safety and optimal playability. In this particular tuning, all movements are within safer limits.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone to F2.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 3 semitones to C3.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains E4.