Unveil the Secrets of Five String Guitar Tuning: A Journey of Discovery

Have you ever wondered what five string guitar tuning is all about? It’s a unique way of tuning your guitar that can open up a whole new world of musical possibilities.

Editor’s Note:Five string guitar tuning is a popular topic among guitarists of all levels. Many find themselves curious about it but struggle to find comprehensive information. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand everything you need to know about five string guitar tuning.

We’ve done the research, dug through the information, and put together this five string guitar tuning guide to help you make the right decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered.

Key Differences:

Main Article Topics:

• What is five string guitar tuning?
• Why use five string guitar tuning?
• How to tune your guitar to five string guitar tuning
• Tips for playing in five string guitar tuning

1. Versatility

Due to its unique tuning, the five string guitar offers a broader tonal range compared to the standard six string guitar. This expanded range enables guitarists to explore and play in a wider variety of musical keys and genres.

• Key Variety: The additional low string extends the guitar’s range, allowing for easier access to lower notes and facilitating the exploration of keys that may be challenging on a standard guitar.
• Genre Diversity: The five string guitar’s versatility shines in various genres. It seamlessly adapts to blues, rock, jazz, and even classical music, providing a wider sonic palette for guitarists.
• Open Tunings: Five string guitar tuning opens up possibilities for experimenting with open tunings, which are commonly used in folk, blues, and slide guitar styles. These tunings offer unique and resonant sounds that can inspire new musical ideas.
• Alternate Tunings: The five string guitar serves as an excellent foundation for exploring alternate tunings, which can dramatically change the guitar’s sound and playing style. Guitarists can venture into tunings like DADGAD or DGDGBD, unlocking new creative avenues.

The versatility of five string guitar tuning empowers guitarists to transcend the limitations of the standard six string guitar. It offers a gateway to musical exploration, allowing players to delve into a broader spectrum of keys, genres, and tunings, enriching their musical journey.

2. Unique sound

The addition of a lower fifth string to the five string guitar tuning significantly alters the guitar’s sonic characteristics, resulting in a deeper, richer, and more resonant sound.

This tonal transformation stems from the lower string’s increased string tension and mass, which produce lower-pitched vibrations. These deeper frequencies add warmth, fullness, and depth to the guitar’s overall sound, making it particularly well-suited for genres such as blues, rock, and jazz.

The deeper, richer sound of the five string guitar tuning also enhances the instrument’s expressiveness and versatility. Guitarists can explore a wider range of dynamics, from delicate fingerpicking to powerful strumming, and the guitar responds with a rich and nuanced sound.

Moreover, the lower fifth string provides a solid foundation for bass lines and countermelodies, adding a harmonic and rhythmic depth to the guitar’s sound. This expanded low-end range also opens up possibilities for exploring new voicings and chord progressions, inspiring fresh musical ideas.

Key Insights:

• The lower fifth string extends the guitar’s range, providing access to deeper notes.
• The increased string tension and mass of the lower fifth string produce lower-pitched vibrations, resulting in a richer and fuller sound.
• The deeper, richer sound of the five string guitar tuning enhances its expressiveness and versatility, making it suitable for a wider range of genres and playing styles.

Practical Applications:

• Guitarists can utilize the deeper sound to create more impactful and resonant bass lines and countermelodies.
• The expanded low-end range opens up possibilities for exploring new voicings and chord progressions, inspiring fresh musical ideas.
• The richer and fuller sound of the five string guitar tuning enhances the instrument’s overall expressiveness, allowing guitarists to convey a wider range of emotions and musical nuances.

3. Extended range

The addition of an extra string to the five string guitar tuning significantly expands the instrument’s range, providing guitarists with access to new notes and chords that are not available on a standard six string guitar.

• Lower notes: The lower fifth string extends the guitar’s range downward, allowing guitarists to play notes that are an octave lower than the lowest note on a standard six string guitar. This expanded low end opens up new possibilities for creating bass lines, countermelodies, and rhythmic patterns.
• Higher notes: While the fifth string extends the guitar’s range downward, the higher sixth string extends the range upward. This allows guitarists to play notes that are an octave higher than the highest note on a standard six string guitar. This expanded high end provides access to new melodic possibilities and allows guitarists to explore different voicings and chord inversions.
• New chords: The combination of the lower fifth string and the higher sixth string creates new possibilities for chords. Guitarists can now voice chords in different ways, creating new and unique sounds. Additionally, the extra string allows for the creation of chords that are not possible on a standard six string guitar, such as extended chords and suspended chords.
• Alternate tunings: The five string guitar tuning can be used as a starting point for exploring other alternate tunings. By adjusting the tuning of the fifth and sixth strings, guitarists can create new tunings that offer different sonic possibilities. These alternate tunings can be used to create new sounds and explore different musical styles.

The extended range of the five string guitar tuning opens up a world of new musical possibilities for guitarists. With access to new notes and chords, guitarists can create more complex and interesting music. Additionally, the five string guitar tuning
can be used as a starting point for exploring other alternate tunings, further expanding the guitarist’s sonic palette.

4. Alternate tunings

The five string guitar tuning can serve as a gateway to the world of alternate tunings. Alternate tunings involve adjusting the tuning of the guitar strings from the standard EADGBE configuration to create new and unique sounds. By experimenting with different alternate tunings, guitarists can expand their sonic palette and explore new musical possibilities.

The five string guitar tuning provides a solid foundation for exploring alternate tunings due to its extended range and versatility. The lower fifth string and the higher sixth string offer a wider range of notes and chords to work with, making it easier to create and experiment with different tunings.

One of the key advantages of using the five string guitar tuning as a starting point for alternate tunings is that it allows guitarists to retain some familiarity with the standard tuning. The fourth, third, and second strings remain the same, providing a sense of continuity and making it easier to transition between different tunings.

For example, a guitarist could start with the five string guitar tuning and then experiment with DADGAD tuning, which is commonly used in folk and Celtic music. DADGAD tuning involves lowering the sixth string to D and the fifth string to A, creating a rich and resonant sound. By starting with the five string guitar tuning, the guitarist already has the lower fifth string in place, making it easier to transition to DADGAD tuning.

Exploring alternate tunings can benefit guitarists in several ways. It can help them break out of creative ruts, discover new sounds, and expand their musical knowledge. Additionally, alternate tunings can be used to create specific effects or emulate the sound of other instruments.

Overall, the five string guitar tuning provides a solid foundation for exploring alternate tunings. Its extended range and versatility make it easier to create and experiment with different tunings, opening up a world of new musical possibilities for guitarists.

Key Insights:

• The five string guitar tuning can serve as a gateway to the world of alternate tunings.
• The extended range and versatility of the five string guitar tuning make it easier to create and experiment with different tunings.
• Exploring alternate tunings can help guitarists break out of creative ruts, discover new sounds, and expand their musical knowledge.

5. Creativity

The unique tuning of the five string guitar, with its extended range and new sonic possibilities, can serve as a catalyst for creativity, inspiring guitarists to generate fresh ideas and break free from conventional musical patterns.

The lower fifth string, in particular, opens up new harmonic possibilities. Guitarists can explore novel bass lines, create richer chord voicings, and craft melodies that delve into deeper sonic territories. This expanded low end encourages experimentation and pushes the boundaries of traditional guitar playing.

Moreover, the addition of a higher sixth string extends the guitar’s range upward, providing access to higher notes and facilitating the execution of complex melodic passages. This expanded range allows guitarists to explore new melodic ideas and create more intricate and nuanced solos.

Furthermore, the five string guitar tuning challenges conventional fingerings and chord shapes, forcing guitarists to rethink their approach to the instrument. This can lead to the discovery of new and innovative techniques, expanding the guitarist’s technical vocabulary and fostering a deeper understanding of the guitar’s capabilities.

Key Insights:

• The five string guitar tuning’s extended range and unique sound inspire new musical ideas.
• The lower fifth string opens up new harmonic possibilities, while the higher sixth string extends the guitar’s melodic range.
• The unique fingerings and chord shapes required by the five string guitar tuning foster technical innovation and a deeper understanding of the instrument.

Examples:

• American guitarist Adrian Belew is known for his innovative use of the five string guitar, incorporating extended techniques and unconventional tunings into his playing.
• Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny has also explored the five string guitar, using it to create his signature sound, which blends elements of jazz, rock, and world music.

Practical Significance:

• Guitarists can use the five string guitar tuning to break out of creative ruts and generate fresh musical ideas.
• The extended range and unique sound of the five string guitar tuning can inspire new compositions and arrangements.
• Exploring the five string guitar tuning can lead to the development of new techniques and a deeper understanding of the guitar.

6. Technical challenges

The challenges presented by five string guitar tuning can serve as a catalyst for technical growth and enhanced musicianship. Embracing these challenges requires guitarists to refine their fingerings, develop new picking patterns, and expand their understanding of music theory.

The addition of an extra string demands a reassessment of traditional fingerings and chord shapes. Guitarists must adapt their left-hand technique to accommodate the wider fretboard and explore new fingerings to voice chords effectively. This process fosters dexterity, improves fretboard navigation, and promotes a deeper understanding of chord construction.

Moreover, the extended range of the five string guitar tuning necessitates the development of new picking patterns. Guitarists must learn to incorporate the lower fifth string into their picking technique, often requiring a reevaluation of their right-hand approach. This challenge encourages precision, fluidity, and the ability to execute complex picking patterns.

Furthermore, the unique tuning of the five string guitar challenges guitarists to rethink their approach to music theory. The addition of the lower fifth string and the higher sixth string alters the harmonic relationships between notes, requiring guitarists to expand their knowledge of scales, chords, and progressions. This process deepens their theoretical understanding and broadens their musical vocabulary.

Key Insights:

• The technical challenges of five string guitar tuning foster dexterity, improve fretboard navigation, and promote a deeper understanding of chord construction.
• The extended range of the five string guitar tuning necessitates the development of new picking patterns, encouraging precision, fluidity, and the ability to execute complex picking patterns.
• The unique tuning of the five string guitar challenges guitarists to rethink their approach to music theory, deepening their theoretical understanding and broadening their musical vocabulary.

Examples:

• Guitarist Stanley Jordan, known for his innovative tapping technique, has embraced the five string guitar tuning, incorporating its extended range and unique sound into his playing.
• Jazz guitarist John Scofield has also explored the five string guitar, using its expanded harmonic possibilities to create his signature sound, which blends elements of jazz, funk, and rock.

Practical Significance:

• Guitarists can use the technical challenges of five string guitar tuning as an opportunity to improve their overall technique and musicianship.
• The extended range and unique sound of the five string guitar tuning can inspire new compositions and arrangements.
• Exploring the five string guitar tuning can lead to the development of new techniques and a deeper understanding of the guitar and music theory.

7. Different repertoire

The emergence of music specifically composed for five string guitar tuning has fostered a dedicated repertoire that showcases the instrument’s unique capabilities and extended range. This growing body of music has contributed to the instrument’s popularity and recognition as a distinct voice within the guitar family.

• Expanding the sonic palette: Composers have embraced the five string guitar tuning’s unique sound, utilizing the lower fifth string to add depth and richness to their compositions. The extended range also allows for the exploration of new harmonic possibilities and melodic lines, inspiring fresh musical ideas.
• Technical virtuosity: The challenges presented by the five string guitar tuning have attracted guitarists known for their technical prowess. These players have pushed the boundaries of the instrument, developing innovative techniques and showcasing the guitar’s versatility in the hands of skilled musicians.
• Genre diversity: The repertoire for five string guitar tuning spans a wide range of genres, from classical and jazz to folk and rock. This diversity reflects the instrument’s adaptability and its ability to transcend traditional boundaries, appealing to a broad spectrum of musical tastes.
• Educational resources: The growing popularity of five string guitar tuning has led to the development of educational materials and resources. These resources, including books, online lessons, and workshops, provide aspiring guitarists with the knowledge and skills necessary to master the instrument and explore its unique repertoire.

The increasing body of music written specifically for five string guitar tuning has played a pivotal role in establishing the instrument’s place in the musical landscape. It has attracted talented composers and performers, inspired innovative techniques, and expanded the guitar’s repertoire to encompass a diverse range of genres. As the instrument continues to gain recognition and acceptance, the repertoire for five string guitar tuning is poised to grow even further, offering endless possibilities for musical exploration and expression.

8. Community

The existence of a supportive community of five string guitar players, both online and offline, serves as a vital component of the instrument’s growing popularity and acceptance. This community provides a sense of belonging, encouragement, and shared knowledge, fostering the growth and development of five string guitarists.

Online forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites offer virtual spaces where five string guitar players from around the world can connect, share their experiences, and learn from one another. These platforms facilitate the exchange of knowledge, tips, and techniques, creating a valuable resource for guitarists of all levels.

In addition to online communities, there are also numerous in-person gatherings, workshops, and events dedicated to the five string guitar. These events provide opportunities for players to meet, collaborate, and share their passion for the instrument. The sense of camaraderie and support within the five string guitar community plays a crucial role in motivating and inspiring guitarists to continue their musical journey.

Furthermore, the supportive community surrounding five string guitar tuning has contributed to the development of educational resources and materials. Experienced players and educators share their knowledge through books, online lessons, and workshops, making it easier for aspiring guitarists to learn the instrument and explore its unique possibilities.

Key Insights:

• The supportive community of five string guitar players provides a sense of belonging, encouragement, and shared knowledge.
• Online forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites offer virtual spaces for guitarists to connect and share their experiences.
• In-person gatherings, workshops, and events provide opportunities for players to meet, collaborate, and share their passion for the instrument.
• The supportive community has contributed to the development of educational resources and materials, making it easier for aspiring guitarists to learn the five string guitar.

9. History

The history of five string guitar tuning is a rich and diverse one, with roots in various cultures around the world. This long-standing use has shaped the development of the instrument and contributed to its unique characteristics.

• Cultural Origins: Five string guitar tuning has been found in cultures across the globe, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Each culture has its own unique variations and playing styles, reflecting the diverse musical traditions that have influenced its development.
• Folk Traditions: In many cultures, five string guitar tuning is closely associated with folk music. It has been used to accompany traditional songs, dances, and storytelling, serving as an integral part of cultural identity and heritage.
• Classical Influence: While primarily associated with folk traditions, five string guitar tuning has also made its way into classical music. Composers such as Niccol Paganini and Mauro Giuliani incorporated the instrument into their works, showcasing its versatility and expressive capabilities.
• Modern Adaptations: In recent decades, five string guitar tuning has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with guitarists exploring new possibilities and pushing the boundaries of the instrument. Contemporary players are using it in various genres, including jazz, rock, and blues, bringing fresh perspectives and innovations to the five string guitar.

The historical significance of five string guitar tuning cannot be overstated. Its enduring presence in diverse cultures highlights its adaptability, versatility, and expressive power. As the instrument continues to evolve, the rich history that has shaped it will undoubtedly continue to influence its future.

10. Innovation

Five string guitar tuning is a constantly evolving field, with new tunings and techniques being developed all the time. This innovation is driven by the desire to explore new sonic possibilities and to push the boundaries of the instrument. A
s a result, five string guitarists have a wide range of options to choose from, allowing them to find the perfect tuning and technique for their individual playing style.

• New tunings: One of the most exciting aspects of five string guitar tuning is the possibility to experiment with new tunings. By changing the tuning of the strings, guitarists can create new and unique sounds. Some popular five string guitar tunings include open G, open D, and DADGAD.
• New techniques: In addition to new tunings, five string guitarists are also developing new techniques to play the instrument. These techniques include tapping, slapping, and harmonics. By using these techniques, guitarists can create a wider range of sounds and textures.
• Influence on other instruments: The innovation in five string guitar tuning is also having an impact on other instruments. For example, some guitarists are now using five string guitar tunings on their six string guitars. This allows them to access the lower notes that are available on a five string guitar.
• Continued growth: The innovation in five string guitar tuning is expected to continue for many years to come. As guitarists continue to explore new possibilities, the instrument will continue to evolve and grow.

The innovation in five string guitar tuning is a testament to the instrument’s versatility and popularity. As guitarists continue to push the boundaries of the instrument, we can expect to see even more new and exciting developments in the years to come.

11. Fun

The enjoyment derived from playing in five string guitar tuning is an essential aspect that contributes to its popularity and appeal among guitarists. This facet extends beyond technical prowess or musical theory and delves into the realm of personal experience and subjective fulfillment.

• Unleashing Creativity: The unique tuning and extended range of the five string guitar provide a fertile ground for creative exploration. Guitarists can experiment with novel chord voicings, melodic lines, and rhythmic patterns, unlocking a world of sonic possibilities that may not be readily accessible on a standard six string guitar. This freedom to explore and discover new musical ideas can be immensely enjoyable and rewarding.
• Overcoming Challenges: The technical challenges presented by five string guitar tuning can serve as a source of enjoyment and accomplishment for many players. Embracing these challenges requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to step outside of one’s comfort zone. As guitarists progress and overcome these challenges, they experience a sense of satisfaction and growth, which further enhances the overall enjoyment of playing in this tuning.
• Expanding Musical Horizons: Five string guitar tuning broadens the guitarist’s musical horizons by introducing new sounds, techniques, and genres. This exposure to diverse musical styles and influences can be a source of inspiration and enjoyment. Guitarists can explore the rich traditions of folk, blues, jazz, and other musical genres, expanding their musical vocabulary and enriching their playing experience.
• Sense of Community: The five string guitar tuning community is known for its supportive and welcoming nature. Guitarists who embrace this tuning often find a sense of belonging and camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts. Participating in online forums, attending workshops, and connecting with other five string guitar players can enhance the overall enjoyment of playing and foster a deeper appreciation for the instrument and its unique tuning.

The enjoyment derived from playing in five string guitar tuning stems from various factors, including the unleashing of creativity, the satisfaction of overcoming challenges, the expansion of musical horizons, and the sense of community it fosters. These facets combine to create a uniquely enjoyable and rewarding musical experience for guitarists who embrace this tuning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Five String Guitar Tuning

This section provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about five string guitar tuning. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, these Q&As will help you understand the basics of this unique tuning.

Question 1: What is five string guitar tuning?

Five string guitar tuning is an alternative tuning for the guitar that involves using five strings instead of the standard six. The most common five string guitar tuning is ADGBe, which is achieved by removing the lowest string (low E) from a standard six string guitar and adding a higher pitched string (high e). This tuning provides a wider range of notes and opens up new possibilities for playing.

Question 2: Why use five string guitar tuning?

There are several reasons why guitarists might choose to use five string guitar tuning. Some of the benefits include:

• Extended range: The addition of a higher pitched string extends the guitar’s range, making it possible to play notes that are not accessible on a standard six string guitar.
• New sounds: Five string guitar tuning creates a unique sound that is different from standard tuning. The lower fifth string adds depth and richness to the guitar’s tone, while the higher sixth string provides a brighter and more articulate sound.
• Alternate tunings: Five string guitar tuning can be used as a starting point for exploring other alternate tunings. By adjusting the tuning of the fifth and sixth strings, guitarists can create new tunings that offer different sonic possibilities.

Question 3: How do I tune my guitar to five string guitar tuning?

To tune your guitar to five string guitar tuning, you will need to remove the lowest string (low E) and replace it with a higher pitched string (high e). The remaining strings should be tuned to ADGBe, using a standard guitar tuner or electronic tuner.

Question 4: What kind of music is suitable for five string guitar tuning?

Five string guitar tuning is versatile and can be used to play a wide range of musical styles. It is particularly well suited for genres that benefit from a wider range of notes and a deeper, richer sound, such as blues, rock, jazz, and folk music.

Question 5: Are there any famous guitarists who use five string guitar tuning?

Yes, several famous guitarists have used five string guitar tuning throughout their careers, including Adrian Belew, Pat Metheny, Stanley Jordan, and John Scofield. These guitarists have demonstrated the versatility and unique sound of five string guitar tuning in a variety of musical contexts.

Question 6: Where can I learn more about five string guitar tuning?

There are many resources available online and in print that can help you learn more about five string guitar tuning. You can find books, articles, and videos that provide detailed information on the tuning, its benefits, and how to play it. Additionally, there are many online communities and forums where you can connect with other five string guitar players and share tips and advice.

Summary: Five string guitar tuning is a unique and versatile tuning that offers a wide range of benefits for guitarists. It extends the guitar’s range, creates a unique and rich sound, and opens up new possibilities for playing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, exploring five string guitar tuning can be a rewarding and enjoyabl
e experience.

Transition to the next article section:

In addition to the FAQs addressed above, there are several other aspects of five string guitar tuning that are worth exploring. In the next section, we will discuss the history of five string guitar tuning, its impact on different genres of music, and the various techniques that can be used to play in this tuning.

Five String Guitar Tuning Tips

To help you get the most out of your five string guitar, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Tip 1: Experiment with Different Tunings

The most common five string guitar tuning is ADGBe, but there are many other tunings you can experiment with. Some popular alternate tunings include open G, open D, and DADGAD. Experimenting with different tunings can help you find the one that best suits your playing style and the music you want to play.

Tip 2: Use a Wider Variety of Chords

The extended range of the five string guitar allows you to use a wider variety of chords. This can add depth and complexity to your playing. Some chords that are particularly effective on a five string guitar include maj7, min7, and sus4 chords.

Tip 3: Explore New Scales and Patterns

The five string guitar also opens up new possibilities for exploring scales and patterns. The additional range allows you to play scales and patterns that would be difficult or impossible to play on a standard six string guitar. This can help you expand your technical abilities and improve your overall playing.

Tip 4: Use the Fifth String as a Drone

The low fifth string can be used as a drone to create a rich and resonant sound. This technique is often used in folk and blues music. To use the fifth string as a drone, simply play a note on the fifth string and let it ring while you play other notes on the higher strings.

Tip 5: Be Patient and Persistent

Learning to play in five string guitar tuning takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t sound great at first. Just keep practicing and you will eventually get the hang of it. The rewards of playing in five string guitar tuning are well worth the effort.

Summary:

Five string guitar tuning is a versatile and rewarding tuning that can open up a world of new possibilities for guitarists. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your five string guitar and take your playing to the next level.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

If you’re interested in learning more about five string guitar tuning, there are many resources available online and in print. You can also find many online communities and forums where you can connect with other five string guitar players and share tips and advice.

Conclusion

Five string guitar tuning is a unique and versatile tuning that offers a wide range of benefits for guitarists. It extends the guitar’s range, creates a unique and rich sound, and opens up new possibilities for playing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, exploring five string guitar tuning can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

This article has provided a comprehensive overview of five string guitar tuning, including its history, benefits, and techniques. We’ve also provided some tips to help you get started playing in this tuning. If you’re interested in learning more about five string guitar tuning, there are many resources available online and in print. You can also find many online communities and forums where you can connect with other five string guitar players and share tips and advice.