Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) is the foundation for most guitar playing, but alternative guitar tunings offer a rich and diverse palette of sounds and creative possibilities. From open tunings favored by slide guitarists to unique and experimental tunings, this guide will introduce you to the world of alternative guitar tunings and inspire you to explore new sonic horizons.
Why Explore Alternative Tunings?
Alternative guitar tunings offer several advantages and creative opportunities:
1. Unique Sounds: Each tuning produces a distinct tonal quality, allowing you to craft music with a unique sonic character.
2. Inspiration: Different tunings can spark fresh ideas and break creative blocks, as they force you to approach the guitar in novel ways.
3. Ease of Play: Some tunings make specific chord shapes or techniques easier to execute, enhancing your overall playing experience.
4. Genre Exploration: Many genres, including blues, folk, and slide guitar, rely heavily on alternative tunings. Exploring these tunings can deepen your understanding of specific musical styles.
Common Alternative Guitar Tunings
Let’s explore some common alternative guitar tunings and their characteristics:
1. Open D Tuning (D-A-D-F#-A-D): Often used in slide guitar playing, Open D tuning creates a rich, open sound. It facilitates easy major and minor chords and is great for blues and folk styles.
2. Open G Tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D): Another slide guitar favorite, Open G tuning provides a bluesy and open feel. It’s associated with artists like Keith Richards and Ry Cooder.
3. Drop D Tuning (D-A-D-G-B-E): By lowering the low E string to D, Drop D tuning adds depth and power to your playing. It’s popular in rock and metal genres.
4. DADGAD Tuning (D-A-D-G-A-D): A favorite for Celtic and folk music, DADGAD tuning offers a lush and resonant sound. It’s versatile for fingerstyle playing and has a drone-like quality.
5. Open E Tuning (E-B-E-G#-B-E): Similar to Open D but with a higher pitch, Open E tuning provides a bright and shimmering tone. It’s used in slide guitar and blues.
6. C6 Tuning (C-A-C-G-A-E): C6 tuning is popular among lap steel guitarists and jazz players. It has a jazzy and sophisticated sound.
7. New Standard Tuning (C-G-D-A-E-G): Coined by alternative rock guitarist Robert Fripp, New Standard Tuning offers harmonic possibilities and unique chord voicings. It encourages creative exploration.
8. Nashville Tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E): Also known as “high-strung” or “12-string” tuning, Nashville tuning uses the higher-pitched strings from a 12-string guitar. It produces a chiming and bright sound.
Experimenting with Alternative Tunings
Here’s how to start experimenting with alternative guitar tunings:
1. Tune Carefully: Use a reliable electronic tuner to ensure accurate tuning. You can also find online resources and apps that provide alternative tuning presets.
2. Learn Chord Shapes: Familiarize yourself with chord shapes and scales in the new tuning. Many chord charts and scale diagrams are available for alternative tunings.
3. Adapt Songs: Take songs you know in standard tuning and adapt them to your chosen alternative tuning. This exercise can be both challenging and inspiring.
4. Experiment with Slide: If you’re using a slide, explore the nuances of your chosen tuning. Slide guitarists often emphasize the open strings for distinctive sounds.
5. Compose in the Tuning: Write your own music in the alternative tuning. This allows you to explore its full potential and discover unique melodies and harmonies.
6. Collaborate: Collaborate with other musicians who are familiar with or curious about alternative tunings. Shared experimentation can lead to exciting discoveries.
7. Record and Document: Record your experiments and compositions. This documentation can serve as a reference for your creative journey.
Conclusion
Alternative guitar tunings open up a world of sonic possibilities and creative exploration. Whether you’re interested in slide guitar, fingerstyle, or simply want to expand your musical horizons, experimenting with alternative tunings can breathe new life into your playing and composition. So, grab your guitar, tune it differently, and embark on a sonic adventure that will enrich your musical journey.