The Cittern Open G Tuning (GDADG) is meticulously crafted for a ten-string (five courses) cittern, offering a deeply resonant and harmonically rich sonic palette. This tuning, a variant of the widely appreciated open G, is exceptionally well-suited for traditional folk, Celtic, and various forms of modern acoustic music, delivering a full-bodied and melodious sound.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to G1-D2-A2-D3-G3. This configuration inherently builds upon the G major chord, with the lowest (String 5) and highest (String 1) courses spanning two octaves from G1 to G3. The intermediate courses reinforce the G and D components, while the A2 adds a distinct flavor.

When all open strings are strummed together, they produce a Gsus2 or Gadd9 chord (G-D-A-D-G). This specific arrangement provides a bright, slightly suspended quality that is both rich and highly resonant. The intervals from the lowest G are: G (Root), D (Perfect 5th), A (Major 2nd/9th), D (Perfect 5th), and G (Octave).

Chords and Playability

• Open String Chords: The GDADG structure makes effortlessly playing a Gsus2/Gadd9 chord a reality by simply strumming all open strings. This provides an immediate, full, and vibrant sound.
• Movable Barre Chords: A significant advantage of this tuning is the ease of creating movable chords. By barring across all courses at any fret, you can instantly transpose the open Gsus2/Gadd9 shape. For instance, barring at the 2nd fret yields an Asus2/Aadd9, and at the 5th fret, a Dsus2/Dadd9. This simplifies chord changes and allows for fluid modulation across different keys.
• Fretted Chords: Common G major and D major shapes become remarkably accessible, often requiring fewer fingers than in standard tunings due to the sympathetic resonance of the open strings. The inclusion of the 'A' note further enriches the harmonic possibilities, allowing for intricate suspended or modal voicings within the G tonality. This tuning's characteristic droning qualities are perfect for accompanying melodies, creating intricate fingerstyle arrangements, and adding depth to folk and Celtic tunes.

Tuning Considerations

It's crucial to note that all strings in this tuning are significantly lowered from what might be considered conventional string tension. The most substantial movement involves tuning down String 4 by a full octave (12 semitones). Due to these extreme drops in pitch (all strings are tuned down by 9 or more semitones), using a dedicated set of heavier gauge strings specifically designed for lower tunings is strongly recommended. This will ensure optimal tone, intonation, and proper string tension, preventing a 'floppy' feel and poor sustain that could result from using standard gauge strings.

This section provides instructions on how to achieve the Cittern Open G Tuning (GDADG) for your 10-string cittern. Please proceed with care, especially when tuning down significantly.

• String 5 (Lowest G): Tune down 9 semitones to G1.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 12 semitones to D2. (This is a full octave drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised.)
• String 3 (A): Tune down 10 semitones to A2.
• String 2 (D): Tune down 9 semitones to D3.
• String 1 (Highest G): Tune down 9 semitones to G3.

Note on String Gauges: As all strings require tuning down by 9 or more semitones, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string set specifically designed for lower tunings. This will ensure proper tension, intonation, and playability, preventing the slack feel and reduced volume/sustain that can occur with standard gauge strings under such low tension.