Exploring different guitar tunings can unlock new sonic landscapes and inspire your playing in unexpected ways. Beyond the familiar standard tuning, alternate tunings offer fresh perspectives on the fretboard and open up exciting possibilities for songwriting and different playing styles. One such tuning, popular among guitarists of all levels, is Open D tuning. This guide will walk you through the essentials of D Tuning Guitar, explaining what it is, how to achieve it, and why it’s a fantastic addition to any guitarist’s toolkit.
Understanding Open D Tuning: The Sound of D
In standard guitar tuning (EADGBE), strumming all open strings produces a less defined, somewhat dissonant sound. However, in the resonant open D tuning, strumming the open strings creates a rich, full D major chord. This is achieved by tuning several strings down from standard pitch, creating a tuning configuration that emphasizes the D major tonality.
Why venture into alternate tunings like open D? Firstly, it’s a powerful tool for songwriting. Many iconic guitarists, including Joni Mitchell and Keith Richards, have utilized alternate tunings to craft some of their most memorable songs. These tunings can inspire unique chord progressions and melodic ideas that might not emerge in standard tuning. Secondly, D tuning guitar simplifies chord playing, particularly for slide guitar. By forming a D chord with the open strings, players can create full, resonant chords by barring across the fretboard with a slide or their fingers. This makes open D a favorite among slide guitarists and blues musicians.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tune Your Guitar to Open D
Tuning to open D involves adjusting four of your guitar’s six strings. Let’s break down the changes from standard tuning to d tuning guitar:
Here’s a visual comparison of standard tuning versus open D tuning:
In standard tuning, from the lowest to highest string, you have:
- E (6th string)
- A (5th string)
- D (4th string)
- G (3rd string)
- B (2nd string)
- E (1st string)
To reach open D tuning, you’ll adjust the following strings:
- Low E (6th string) to D: Tune down a whole step.
- A (5th string): Remains the same.
- D (4th string): Remains the same.
- G (3rd string) to F#: Tune down a half step.
- B (2nd string) to A: Tune down a whole step.
- High E (1st string) to D: Tune down a whole step.
Therefore, open D tuning from lowest to highest string is:
- D (6th string)
- A (5th string)
- D (4th string)
- F# (3rd string)
- A (2nd string)
- D (1st string)
Follow these steps to tune your guitar to open D:
-
Tune the Low E String to D: Start by plucking your low E string. Turn the tuning peg clockwise (towards you) to lower the pitch. Tune it down until it matches the pitch of your open D string (the 4th string).
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Tune the G String to F#: Pluck your G string and tune it down by turning the tuning peg clockwise. To find F#, you can play the 4th fret of your D string (which is an F# note) and match the pitch of your G string to it. Alternatively, you can use a tuner.
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Tune the B String to A: Pluck your B string and tune it down a whole step to A. You can match it to the pitch of your open A string (the 5th string).
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Tune the High E String to D: Finally, tune your high E string down a whole step to D. Match its pitch to your open D string (4th string), remembering that the high E string’s D will be an octave higher.
Tuning Resources:
- Online Tuners: Utilize online guitar tuners like the Fender Online Guitar Tuner (available for both electric and acoustic guitars) which often include presets for alternate tunings like Open D.
- Tuner Apps: Download a guitar tuner app for your smartphone. Many apps offer various tuning options, including open D, and provide visual or auditory feedback for accurate tuning.
- Tuning by Ear: If you prefer tuning by ear, use the method described above – matching string pitches to known notes on other strings.
Exploring Songs in Open D Tuning: Inspiration and Examples
Playing songs in d tuning guitar is a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the tuning and discover its unique sonic qualities. It can initially feel like a mental shift to re-learn familiar chord shapes in a new tuning, but this process expands your understanding of the guitar and opens up new creative avenues.
“Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell: This classic song perfectly showcases the bright and cheerful character of open D tuning. Joni Mitchell famously used alternate tunings extensively in her songwriting. While “Big Yellow Taxi” is often played in open E, tuning to open D with a capo at the 2nd fret achieves a similar result and is easier on your strings.
“The Cave” by Mumford & Sons: In contrast to the lighthearted feel of “Big Yellow Taxi,” “The Cave” by Mumford & Sons demonstrates the more stoic and uplifting side of open D. The tuning contributes to the song’s emotional depth and resonance, enhancing the powerful lyrics and driving rhythm.
Venturing into d tuning guitar and other alternate tunings is a rewarding journey for any guitarist. It provides a fresh perspective on the instrument, inspires new musical ideas, and expands your technical skills. With practice and exploration, you’ll discover the unique voice that open D tuning can bring to your playing. Consider exploring resources like Fender Play for more lessons on alternate tunings and to further your guitar journey.
