Tuning Analysis: Open G-A Drone

This unique tuning, which we've named Open G-A Drone, takes a six-string instrument described as a 'Ukulele' and transforms its sonic landscape dramatically. While a typical ukulele has four strings and a higher pitch range, this setup utilizes six strings tuned to a very low register, more akin to a six-string guitar or guitalele, but with a highly specific open chord. The provided description, "ukulele but differentukulele but different," aptly captures its departure from convention.

Verbal Description

Imagine a deep, resonant hum, almost like a sitar or a drone instrument. That's the immediate impression of the Open G-A Drone tuning. With two low G notes providing a solid foundation, followed by a clear D, and then three bright A notes at the top, this tuning creates a rich, sustained harmony. It evokes a meditative or bluesy feel, perfect for fingerstyle playing where the open strings can ring out, creating complex sympathetic vibrations. It's particularly well-suited for folk, experimental music, or blues where a constant root and dominant are desired, punctuated by the distinctive 'A' drone. The repeated A on the higher strings makes it easy to create melodic lines that always resolve back to this bright, high drone, offering a unique textural palette.

Technical Analysis

• Instrument Type: Ukulele (6-string configuration). It's important to note that the tuning notes (G2, D3, A3) are significantly lower than standard ukulele tunings, suggesting this might be for a specialized 6-string ukulele (like a guitalele) or a custom setup using heavier gauge strings.
• Open Notes: G2, G2, D3, A3, A3, A3 (from low to high string).
• Chordal Structure: The open tuning presents a Gsus2 or Gmaj9 without the major third (B). It contains the root (G), the perfect fifth (D), and the major second/ninth (A). The heavy octave doubling of G and the triple unison A notes create a powerful, resonant sound. The absence of a strong major or minor third allows for harmonic ambiguity, making it versatile for different melodic voicings. This provides a strong drone texture.
• String Movements Overview: This tuning requires significant adjustments from standard EADGBE tuning (assuming a 6-string base, given the string count and range). It involves both considerable drops and moderate increases in tension across different strings. Particular care is needed for the first string's substantial drop.
• Chords & Playability: Due to the open G-D-A structure, simple barre chords moved up the neck will yield predictable and harmonious results. For example, a one-finger barre at the 5th fret across all strings would produce a Cadd9-like chord (C3 C3 G3 D4 D4 D4). A one-finger barre at the 7th fret would create a Dadd9/Dsus2 chord (D3 D3 A3 E4 E4 E4). The repetitive nature of the highest strings makes melodic playing over this drone very effective. However, users should be mindful of the extreme string movements, especially the -7 semitone drop on the first string and the +3 semitone rise on the sixth string, which may require different string gauges for optimal performance and instrument safety.

How to Tune: Open G-A Drone

To achieve the Open G-A Drone tuning, follow these specific adjustments from a standard EADGBE tuning for a 6-string instrument. Please pay close attention to the semitone movements for string safety and optimal tone. Note: The starting notes below assume a standard E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4 tuning for a 6-string instrument.

• String 6 (Low E): From standard E2, tune up 3 semitones to G2. (Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones increases string tension; proceed carefully to avoid snapping the string.)
• String 5 (A): From standard A2, tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): From standard D3, keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• String 3 (G): From standard G3, tune up 2 semitones to A3. (Caution: Tuning up 2 semitones increases string tension; proceed carefully.)
• String 2 (B): From standard B3, tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (High E): From standard E4, tune down 7 semitones to A3. (Important: Tuning down 7 semitones is a significant change. This will result in very loose string tension. A different string gauge is strongly advised to maintain optimal tension, prevent floppiness, and ensure proper intonation.)