What Are Alternative Guitar Tunings?

Alternative guitar tunings are any combination of notes chosen for the open strings of the guitar other than the standard EADGBE tuning. Alternate guitar tunings allow guitarists to access different tonalities or patterns on the instrument.

Why Use Alternative Guitar Tunings?

There are many reasons why guitarists might choose to use alternative tunings. Some of the most common reasons include:

• To create new sounds and textures.
• To make it easier to play certain chords or techniques.
• To open up new possibilities for improvisation.
• To emulate the sound of other instruments, such as a banjo or mandolin.

Popular Alternative Guitar Tunings

Here are some of the most popular alternative guitar tunings:

• Drop D tuning: This tuning is created by tuning the low E string down one whole step to D. This tuning is often used in rock and metal music, as it makes it easier to play power chords.
• Open G tuning: This tuning is created by tuning the 6th string to D, the 5th string to G, the 4th string to D, the 3rd string to G, the 2nd string to B, and the 1st string to D. This tuning is often used in blues and folk music, as it creates a mellow, open sound.
• DADGAD tuning: This tuning is created by tuning the 6th string to D, the 5th string to A, the 4th string to D, the 3rd string to G, the 2nd string to D, and the 1st string to A. This tuning is often used in Celtic music, as it creates a rich, atmospheric sound.
• Open E tuning: This tuning is created by tuning the 6th string to E, the 5th string to B, the 4th string to E, the 3rd string to B, the 2nd string to G#, and the 1st string to E. This tuning is often used in slide guitar, as it creates a smooth, fluid sound.

How to Tune Your Guitar to an Alternate Tuning

There are a few different ways to tune your guitar to an alternate tuning. One way is to use a tuner. Another way is to tune your guitar by ear.

If you are using a tuner, simply select the alternate tuning that you want to use and then tune your guitar strings one by one. If you are tuning your guitar by ear, you can use a reference note, such as the open E string, to tune the other strings.

Alternative guitar tunings can be a great way to expand your sonic palette and open up new possibilities for your playing. If you are looking for a way to add some new sounds to your music, I encourage you to experiment with some of the alternative tunings that I have mentioned in this blog post.

Here are some additional resources on alternative guitar tunings that you may find helpful:

• Guitar World: 11 Alternate Tunings Every Guitarist Should Know
• Fender: Top 9 Alternate Tunings to Learn on Guitar
• Most Common Alternate Tunings for Guitar