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December 2011. Lately I have been experimenting with tuning an acoustic guitar as a cello. I removed the 1st and 2nd strings, and replaced the third with an unwound string. The strings and gauges ended up in this order:
C (.056), G (.045), D (.035), A (.017). Using a regular wound 3rd string for the A was not practical – the higher tension was very uncomfortable. |
The .017 gauge string is slightly unstable, partly because it is normally the second string for which my guitar has a compensated saddle. Also this tuning does not quite suit the guitar's equal temperament. The fundamental tones can be improved (with compromise) in the tuning, but this creates some troublesome overtones.
Problems and compromises aside, I think it's worth the effort. If you can get the intonation and overtones under some sort of control, this tuning is fun and satisfying to play. I've been playing the tunes from JS Bach's First Cello Suite BWV 1007 and I've recorded the Prelude so far. I know I play it far too fast, and old Johann is turning in his grave, but please give me a break. Playing 18th century German cello music on a 21st century American acoustic guitar is never going to be authentic. I know that. You know that. And I find the phrasing easier at the faster tempo. At any rate this remains my official excuse, at least until I can play it properly.
website © Joel McDermott 2011
