Tuning Overview: Report Card Tuning

As the creator playfully suggests, this is "Report Card Tuning"! This unique tuning offers a distinct and somewhat quirky sonic landscape, built around a repeating pattern of F and D notes. It’s perfect for players looking to break away from traditional voicings and explore new harmonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned as follows, from lowest to highest: F2-F2-D3-F3-D4-F4. This arrangement creates a rich, resonant sound where the F note acts as a strong foundational element, beautifully complemented by the D notes.

• String 6 (F2) and String 5 (F2): Tuned in unison, these two lowest strings provide a powerful, droning bass foundation.
• String 5 (F2) to String 4 (D3): A major 6th interval (up), introducing the D.
• String 4 (D3) to String 3 (F3): A minor 3rd interval (up), returning to F.
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (D4): Another major 6th interval (up), repeating the D.
• String 2 (D4) to String 1 (F4): A final minor 3rd interval (up), concluding with an F.

This tuning effectively stacks F and D notes across the fretboard, creating an open chord that can be interpreted as an F6 (F-A-C-D) or an Fmaj6(omit3,5) with its strong emphasis on the root and sixth. The absence of the typical third (A) and fifth (C) in the open strings means it leans towards an F power chord (F5) with added D notes. The repeated D notes give it a bright, open quality, allowing for interesting harmonic textures.

Chordal Possibilities

With the open strings ringing as F-F-D-F-D-F, the tuning naturally lends itself to:

• F Major / F Power Chords: The strong presence of F notes, especially the low F unison, makes F major or F power chords sound full and resonant. Simple one-finger barres across the fretboard can yield powerful results.
• F6 Chords: The D notes naturally provide the major 6th, so voicings with an F root and D will sound harmonious, easily achieved with minimal fretting.
• Dm / Dsus2 Chords: Because D is also a prominent note, exploring chords with a D root, such as D minor or D suspended 2nd, can create interesting tension and release, especially when played against the lower F drones.
• Droning & Folk Music: The repeated F and D notes across different octaves are fantastic for creating sustained, droning effects, making this tuning highly suitable for folk, ambient, or experimental music styles.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "Report Card Tuning" from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these specific adjustments for each string, using the information provided in the original tuning movements:

• String 6 (Low E to F2): Tune up 1 semitone. (Movement: +1 semitone)
• String 5 (A to F2): Tune down 4 semitones. (Movement: -4 semitones)
  Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. While generally manageable with standard string gauges, be mindful of string tension and ensure your string can comfortably hold this lower tension without buzzing. If you frequently use this tuning, a slightly heavier gauge string might be beneficial for this specific string to maintain optimal playability and tone.
• String 4 (D to D3): Keep as is; no change. (Movement: 0 semitones)
• String 3 (G to F3): Tune down 2 semitones. (Movement: -2 semitones)
• String 2 (B to D4): Tune up 3 semitones. (Movement: +3 semitones)
  Note: Tuning up 3 semitones increases string tension. Proceed with caution, as tuning beyond 4 semitones up typically advises a different gauge string. Ensure your string can handle the increased stress without breaking.
• String 1 (High E to F4): Tune up 1 semitone. (Movement: +1 semitone)

Always tune carefully and use a reliable tuner. Pay particular attention to the warnings for strings 5 and 2 due to the larger pitch changes, where a different gauge string might be advised for long-term use and to prevent damage.

String 6: F2

String 5: F2

String 4: D3

String 3: F3

String 2: D4

String 1: F4