A New World of Sonic Noise:
A Guitarist's Start With Alternate Tunings
By Matthew Delano
For many guitar players, especially those who been playing for a while, we all develop habits and routines that create our own style and by extension, our comfort zones.
The best way to break beyond this and keep growing is to keep experimenting. A simple way to break beyond, for example, the standard tuning is to try alternate tunings.
Fundamentals of Alternate Tunings
Before learning the difference between guitar tunings, let’s understand the fundamentals. Alternate tunings involve adjusting the pitch of the guitar strings to deviate from the conventional EADGBE tuning. Common alternate tunings include Open D, Drop D, and DADGAD, each offering a distinct palette of tones and textures.
Open D: Painting with Resonant Harmonies
Try your first new tuning with Open D tuning (DADF#AD). This tuning is celebrated for its resonant, full-bodied sound and is a popular among slide guitarists. Explore the lush, open chords and experiment with slide techniques to evoke haunting melodies reminiscent of blues and folk traditions.
Drop D: Unleashing the Power Chords
Drop D tuning (DADGBE) is a gateway to a heavier music. By lowering the low E string to D, guitarists instantly gain access to thunderous power chords and a deep, resonant sound. Dive into the world of hard rock and metal, exploring the crushing riffs that have defined the genre. This by far is still one of my favorite, and earliest, guitar tunings of all time.
DADGAD: An Acoustic Journey of Newness
DADGAD tuning offers a rich and open sound, making it a favorite among acoustic guitarists. Widely used in Celtic and folk music, DADGAD invites players to experiment with modal playing, intricate fingerstyle, and lush harmonies. It’s a tuning that can turn a simple chord progression into a mesmerizing journey.
Creating Your Own Alternate Tunings: A Sonic Canvas
Beyond established alternate tunings, consider creating your own. Experiment by raising or lowering individual strings to achieve unique sounds that resonate with your artistic vision. Whether you seek ethereal atmospheres or dissonant landscapes, crafting your tuning can be a deeply personal and rewarding experience.
Tips for Exploring Alternate Tunings
Patience and Exploration
Do research on bands and songs that you like, it might take some time. Experiment with chord shapes, scales, and progressions to discover the sonic possibilities.
Utilize Capos
Consider using a capo with your different tunings. Experiment with different capo positions to find the sweet spots for your desired sound.
Record and Reflect
One of the best things you can do it record yourself. This allows you to analyze and reflect on the unique sounds you’ve discovered, aiding in the creative process.
Conclusion
As you start to experiment with alternate tunings, there are no set rules. Let your creativity break all boundaries of all conviential music rules. Alternate tunings can be used to explore genres, techniques, or challenge yourself musicially. Always remember to record yourself when you’re experimenting. You may never know what you may come up with. Below is a video with further details on each tunings.
About the author: Matthew Delano is a guitar teacher and guitarist for the band, Protean Fire. He offers guitar lessons in Syracuse, NY, USA.