Description of F Augmented Ninth Open Tuning

This unique and experimental tuning, referred to as "FGCGAC" by its creator, opens up a world of rich and often dissonant harmonic possibilities for the guitar. As the original description states, it's clearly designed for songwriting exploration, pushing beyond conventional guitar voicings.

Technically, the open strings form an F augmented ninth chord (Fmaj(#5)add9). The notes from low to high are F2, G2, C3, G3, A3, and C#5. This chord features a strong F major triad (F-A-C) but with an augmented fifth (C# instead of C natural), creating a distinctive, bright, and slightly tense quality. The addition of the G (present as both G2 and G3) acts as a major second or ninth, adding a complex, suspended-like flavor to the overall sound.

The intervals from the low F string are: Root (F), Major 2nd (G), Perfect 5th (C), Octave of Major 2nd (G), Major 3rd (A), and Augmented 5th (C#). This combination immediately presents a challenging yet inspiring harmonic landscape. The relatively wide interval between the A string (A3) and the top C# string (C#5) also contributes to its unique voicing and resonance.

Open Chords and Possibilities:

• Open Sound: The open tuning itself is an F augmented ninth, which is quite a specific and harmonically rich chord. This suggests a starting point for compositions that embrace dissonance and a brighter, unresolved, or dreamlike feel.
• Drone Potential: Despite its complexity, the prominent F, C, and G notes can still allow for compelling drone-like passages, especially if the high C# is used sparingly or fretted to blend.
• Exploration of Augmented Harmony: This tuning is ideal for exploring augmented chord voicings and progressions. The C# on the first string makes it easy to lean into Faug, Caug, or Aaug sonorities, opening doors for jazz, experimental, or even film score compositions.
• Fretted Chords: Moving up the neck, barre chords will create interesting variations of this augmented ninth structure. For example, a full barre at the first fret would yield an F# augmented ninth. Experimenting with fretting just the lower strings while leaving the higher ones open, or vice-versa, will uncover many unique sounds.
• Unusual Voicings: The unique arrangement of notes means that familiar chord shapes will produce entirely new voicings, encouraging creative fingerings and fresh melodic ideas. The G-C-G-A grouping in the middle strings offers interesting possibilities for suspended or quartal harmony.

Overall, the "F Augmented Ninth Open Tuning" is a bold choice for guitarists seeking to break away from traditional voicings and explore a more dissonant, yet melodically intriguing, sonic palette. It's truly a tuning for an adventurous songwriter.

Open String Notes:

String 6 (Low E string): F2

String 5 (A string): G2

String 4 (D string): C3

String 3 (G string): G3

String 2 (B string): A3

String 1 (High E string): C#5

How to Tune:

To achieve the "F Augmented Ninth Open Tuning" from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these adjustments carefully:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone from E2 to F2. (This is generally safe, but always tune slowly and carefully.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 3 semitones from E5 to C#5. (Tuning down 3 or 4 semitones is generally safe for standard gauge strings, but always be mindful of string tension and listen for any undue strain.)

General Caution: While none of these movements drastically exceed typical string tension tolerances for standard gauge strings (i.e., beyond 4 semitones up or down), always exercise care when adjusting your guitar's tuning. Listen to your strings, tune slowly, and if you plan to use this tuning frequently, consider string gauges that might better suit these specific tensions for optimal tone and longevity.