Tuning Analysis: Eflat9sus

This unique tuning, known as Eflat9sus, is specifically adapted for the Laúd, drawing inspiration from Joni Mitchell's classic "Song for Sharon." It transforms the traditional Laúd into an instrument capable of producing rich, complex harmonies reminiscent of folk and jazz fusion styles.

Verbal Analysis

The Eflat9sus tuning creates a distinctive, expansive soundscape. The open strings resonate with a lush, melancholic quality, perfect for intricate fingerpicking patterns and atmospheric textures. It encourages unconventional chord voicings and open string drones, lending itself well to introspective compositions or expressive improvisations. The wider intervals and specific note choices suggest a tuning designed for harmonic depth rather than simple strumming, inviting players to explore unique melodic and harmonic pathways.

Technical Analysis

The open notes of this tuning are G3#, D4#, F4#, A4#, C5#, and D5# (from thickest to thinnest string). When analyzing the harmonic content, if we consider D# (E-flat) on the 5th string as a potential root, the tuning presents a D# minor 7 chord (D#-F#-A#-C#) with an added perfect 4th (G#) on the lowest string, and an octave D# on the highest string. This configuration, D#-F#-G#-A#-C#-D#, technically forms a D# minor 7 (add11) chord. While the provided name "Eflat9sus" (D#9sus) might suggest a specific harmonic intention or a chord shape easily formed, the open strings directly provide this rich, extended minor sound.

The presence of repeated notes (D# on strings 5 and 1) provides sympathetic resonance and a strong tonal center. The perfect fifths are easily accessible (e.g., G#-D# on strings 6-5, D#-A# on strings 5-3), facilitating resonant power chords and bass lines. The varied intervals between strings (P5, m3, P4, m3, M2 from string 5 upwards, with the 6th string a P4 below the 5th) open up unique voicings and allow for the creation of suspensions and clusters with minimal fretwork. Chords like D# minor, G# major, and various extended voicings will naturally emerge with this tuning, offering a versatile palette for creative expression.

How to Tune

Please exercise caution when adjusting string tension, especially for larger semitone movements. For movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, it is generally advisable to consider a different string gauge to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument.

• String 6 (G3#): Tune up 4 semitones. Exercise caution.
• String 5 (D4#): Tune up 6 semitones. A different string gauge is strongly advised for this significant tension increase.
• String 4 (F4#): Tune up 4 semitones. Exercise caution.
• String 3 (A4#): Tune up 3 semitones.
• String 2 (C5#): Tune up 2 semitones.
• String 1 (D5#): Tune down 1 semitone.

Here are the specific notes for each string, from the thickest (6th) to the thinnest (1st):

String 6: G3#

String 5: D4#

String 4: F4#

String 3: A4#

String 2: C5#

String 1: D5#