Verbal and Technical Analysis of Standard Lute Tuning

This tuning, aptly named "Standard Lute Tuning," is designed for the Lute, an instrument known for its intricate and often re-entrant tunings. Unlike the linear pitch progression of a modern guitar, this tuning presents a unique set of intervals and characteristics, typical of historical instruments.

Open String Notes & Intervals:

• 6th String (Lowest): G2
• 5th String: C3 (Perfect 4th above G2)
• 4th String: F3 (Perfect 4th above C3)
• 3rd String: G#4 (An octave and an Augmented 2nd above F3, a significant jump of 13 semitones)
• 2nd String: D4 (A Descending Augmented 4th below G#4; this string is lower in pitch than the 3rd string)
• 1st String (Highest): G4 (Perfect 4th above D4)

Harmonic & Chordal Observations:

A defining feature of this tuning is its re-entrant nature, where the 3rd string (G#4) is tuned higher in pitch than the 2nd string (D4). This creates a distinct melodic and harmonic landscape, encouraging contrapuntal playing rather than strumming full, open triads across all strings.

The lowest three strings (G2, C3, F3) establish a strong Perfect 4th progression, laying a foundation that could lean towards C suspended 4th (C-F-G) or a G minor feel (G-C-F, missing the B-flat). The presence of G2 and G4 on the outer strings provides a strong octave anchor.

The upper strings (G#4, D4, G4) introduce a more complex and somewhat dissonant cluster (G#, D, G). This combination doesn't readily form a simple major or minor triad, but rather offers unique harmonic colours. For instance, the D4 and G4 together create a perfect 4th. When combined with the G#4, it could suggest a Dsus4 chord with an added G# (D-G-G#) or an augmented quality within a more complex harmony.

This tuning is less about easy open chord shapes like on a modern guitar and more about fingerings that utilize the specific intervallic relationships to create melodic lines and nuanced harmonic textures, often found in early music.

Tuning Considerations:

All strings require tuning up, with most moving 3 semitones and one moving 1 semitone. These adjustments are within the safe limits (not exceeding 4 semitones up or down) specified for standard string gauges, meaning a different string gauge is generally not advised solely based on these movements. However, due to the inherent high pitch of the 3rd string (G#4) relative to the instrument's overall range, care should always be taken, and appropriate string types for lute are recommended to ensure optimal tone and string life.

How to Tune Your Lute to Standard Lute Tuning

Follow these instructions to achieve the Standard Lute Tuning:

• 6th String (Lowest): To reach G2, tune up 3 semitones.
• 5th String: To reach C3, tune up 3 semitones.
• 4th String: To reach F3, tune up 3 semitones.
• 3rd String: To reach G#4, tune up 1 semitone.
• 2nd String: To reach D4, tune up 3 semitones.
• 1st String (Highest): To reach G4, tune up 3 semitones.

Note: All tuning adjustments are within the recommended range of less than 4 semitones up or down, so a change in string gauge is generally not required based on these movements. Always exercise caution when tuning up.