Guitar tuning is a fundamental aspect of playing the instrument, influencing the sound, playability, and overall musical possibilities. Over the years, various tuning methods have emerged, each contributing to the evolution of guitar music.
The Origins of Standard Tuning
The Birth of EADGBE
The most common guitar tuning, known as standard tuning, is EADGBE. This tuning has its roots in the early development of the guitar and similar stringed instruments. Standard tuning evolved to provide a balance between playability and musical versatility, allowing guitarists to play a wide range of chords and scales comfortably.
- E (6th string): The lowest string, providing a deep bass foundation.
- A (5th string): A perfect fourth above the E string, aiding in chord shapes.
- D (4th string): Another perfect fourth above the A string.
- G (3rd string): Yet another perfect fourth, leading to the first significant interval change.
- B (2nd string): A major third above the G string, facilitating common chord shapes.
- E (1st string): The highest string, identical to the 6th string but two octaves higher.
Adoption and Popularity
Standard tuning became the norm due to its practicality. It allowed for easier finger positioning and a logical layout for chord shapes, making it accessible for beginners and versatile for advanced players. Classical guitarists, in particular, adopted this tuning, which later carried over to other genres as the guitar evolved.
Exploring Alternate Tunings
The Rise of Drop D
One of the first and most widely used alternate tunings is drop D. In drop D tuning, only the 6th string is tuned down one whole step from E to D, resulting in DADGBE. This simple adjustment has a significant impact, providing a deeper, heavier sound and enabling power chords with one finger.
- Usage in Rock and Metal: Drop D became popular in rock and metal genres for its ease in playing heavy, chunky riffs. Bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Foo Fighters have utilized drop D to great effect.
- Versatility: Beyond rock and metal, drop D is also used in folk and acoustic music to achieve a fuller, richer sound.
Open Tunings
Open tunings are where the strings are tuned to form a specific chord when played open. These tunings are popular in blues, slide guitar, and folk music.
- Open G (DGDGBD): Commonly used in blues and rock, popularized by guitarists like Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones.
- Open D (DADF#AD): Favored by slide guitarists and used in folk music for its resonant, open sound.
- Open E (EBEG#BE): Another popular slide tuning, offering a bright, ringing tone.
DADGAD and Celtic Influences
DADGAD tuning, often associated with Celtic music, provides a droning, modal sound. It’s used by guitarists like Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin and Pierre Bensusan to create ethereal, intricate soundscapes.
Modern and Experimental Tunings
The Emergence of Extended Range Tunings
With the advent of seven-string and eight-string guitars, new tuning possibilities emerged. These instruments typically add a low B or F# string, allowing for extended range and deeper, more complex harmonies.
The history of guitar tuning is a testament to the instrument’s versatility and the creativity of its players. From the stability and reliability of standard tuning to the heavy riffs of drop D and the unique voicings of open and experimental tunings, each method offers its own musical possibilities. As guitarists continue to explore new tunings, the boundaries of what the guitar can achieve are continually expanded.
Keep riffing!