Tuning Analysis: Alternate G Tuning

The Alternate G Tuning presents a distinctive sonic landscape, described as a variant of the FCFAEA tuning where the lowest F string is raised a full step to G. This transformation results in the open string notes G1-C2-F2-A2-E3-A3 (low to high).

Verbal Observation:

This tuning creates a rich, resonant sound ideal for open string drone compositions, fingerstyle arrangements, and genres that benefit from a deep, atmospheric character such as folk, blues, or experimental music. The widespread intervals and the repetition of the 'A' note (A2 on the 3rd string and A3 on the 1st string) contribute to a full, harmonically complex sound even when played open. Players will find this tuning inspiring for creating new chord voicings and melodic patterns that diverge from standard tuning conventions.

Technical Observation:

Starting from the lowest string, the intervals are as follows:

• 6th String (G1) to 5th String (C2): Perfect 4th (+5 semitones)
• 5th String (C2) to 4th String (F2): Perfect 4th (+5 semitones)
• 4th String (F2) to 3rd String (A2): Major 3rd (+4 semitones)
• 3rd String (A2) to 2nd String (E3): Perfect 5th (+7 semitones)
• 2nd String (E3) to 1st String (A3): Perfect 4th (+5 semitones)

Compared to standard tuning (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4), all strings are significantly lowered. The overall range spans over two octaves, providing a deep foundation. The combination of Perfect 4ths, a Major 3rd, and a Perfect 5th creates a non-standard interval structure that avoids simple major or minor open chords, encouraging exploration of more sophisticated harmonies.

Open Chords and Reachable Voicings:

While the open strings G-C-F-A-E-A don't form a simple major or minor triad, they collectively offer a rich harmonic palette. This configuration lends itself well to:

• G13sus4 Voicings: The notes G, C, F, A, E are present, strongly suggesting a G13sus4 (G-C-D-E-F-A-B) without the D and B. Strumming the open strings will yield a complex, suspended sound.
• A minor 7th / C major 9th: The notes A, C, E, G are all present, allowing for easy formation of an A minor 7th chord (A-C-E-G) by simply muting the F string (4th string). Similarly, a C major 9th (C-E-G-B-D) can be implied or easily formed, especially with the G and E notes prominent.
• Open Drones: The low G string provides a powerful bass drone, over which melodies and harmonies can be built using the higher strings. The repeated 'A' notes offer a shimmering octave.
• Modal Play: The unique intervals open up opportunities for exploring various modes and scales, moving beyond the typical box shapes of standard tuning.

This tuning encourages players to think outside traditional chord shapes and discover new, expansive sounds.

Tuning Notes:

• 6th String: G1 (Lowest String)
• 5th String: C2
• 4th String: F2
• 3rd String: A2
• 2nd String: E3
• 1st String: A3 (Highest String)

How to Tune to Alternate G:

To achieve the Alternate G Tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, you will need to adjust each string as follows. Please exercise caution when making large tuning changes.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 9 semitones to G1. This is a significant drop, more than an octave down from its usual pitch relative to other strings.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 9 semitones to C2. This is a substantial decrease in pitch.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 9 semitones to F2. Another considerable drop.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 10 semitones to A2. This is an extremely large adjustment.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 7 semitones to E3. This is a full fifth below standard.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 7 semitones to A3. This is also a full fifth below standard.

Important Advisory: All strings in this tuning require changes exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down). For such drastic adjustments, especially tuning down, using a heavier gauge string set is highly recommended to maintain proper tension, intonation, and playability. Using standard gauge strings with such low tunings can result in a very loose feel, poor sustain, and intonation issues.