This distinctive guitar tuning, which we've named "Open G Octave Drone", was reportedly developed years ago by its creator, finding its way into numerous "Weissmuller" songs. It offers a wonderfully rich and full sound, making it particularly well-suited for drone-based music, slide guitar, and explorative open-string playing. The unique repetition of G and D notes across various octaves creates a resonant, harmonically dense texture that can inspire new chord voicings, rhythmic patterns, and an expansive sonic landscape.

Technical Analysis:

Technically, this tuning is an innovative variation of the popular Open G tuning. The open strings are configured as G G D G G D, from the low 6th string to the high 1st string. Let's break down its structure:

• Low Bass Octave: The 6th string is tuned to G2, and remarkably, the 5th string is also tuned to G2. This creates a powerful, deep unison or octave bass drone, providing a robust foundation for your music.
• Mid-Range: The 4th string remains D3, and the 3rd string remains G3, establishing the core G major triad.
• High Octave: The 2nd string is tuned to G3, mirroring the 3rd string's G, and the 1st string is tuned to D4. This double G on the treble side, coupled with the low Gs, provides a bright, layered texture.

When strummed open, this tuning forms a complete G major chord (G-D-G) across multiple octaves, resulting in a vibrant and harmonically rich resonance. Its structure makes it excellent for:

• Open Chords: Easily create G major chords by barring across any fret. Other common chords will require altered fingerings but can lead to fresh, unexpected voicings.
• Drone & Slide: The repeating G and D notes are perfect for sustaining drones and lend themselves beautifully to slide guitar techniques.
• Power Chords: Simple two or three-finger power chords will be readily accessible on the lower strings.
• Fingerstyle: The unique string relationships can inspire intricate fingerstyle patterns that leverage the open string harmonies.

To achieve the "Open G Octave Drone" tuning, your guitar strings will be set to the following notes, from the thickest (6th) to the thinnest (1st) string:

• 6th String (Low E): G2
• 5th String (A): G2
• 4th String (D): D3
• 3rd String (G): G3
• 2nd String (B): G3
• 1st String (High E): D4

How to Tune to Open G Octave Drone:

Please follow these instructions carefully. Always tune gradually and listen closely to your string's tension. Significant changes in pitch can affect string tension and potentially your instrument.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 3 semitones. Your string will move from E2 to G2. (Exercise caution when tuning up a string by several semitones, checking string tension.)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones. Your string will move from A2 to G2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Your string remains D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Your string remains G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones. Your string will move from B3 to G3. (Be mindful that tuning down by several semitones may result in a noticeably slacker string feel.)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones. Your string will move from E4 to D4.

Important Consideration: While none of the individual string movements for this tuning strictly exceed 4 semitones up or down (which typically advises considering a different string gauge), tuning the 6th string up 3 semitones and the 2nd string down 4 semitones are notable changes in tension. Always proceed slowly, ensure your guitar is stable, and consider a professional setup if you plan to keep this tuning for extended periods.