Two Bluesy Open Tunings Explained: Step-By-Step For Beginners

[@eclecticexplorer7828]

I recently began to experiment with open D tuning -- my first alternative to standard tuning. The impetus was a desire to learn to play slide.

[@5s4l1p1fcw]

Thanks John

[@matteobarbera9250]

Thank you, do a fingerstyle blues lesson please

[@BluesGuitarInstitute]

I've got lots (hundreds maybe) of those on the channel. Thanks!

[@bushman9315]

No wonder I subscribe to you. I guess I am a bit of an advanced player in that I have been a guitar teacher and taught a few people in my time. I am not a theory guy so this channel explains the things I know, but didn't really know the terms. I love alternate tunings but am a bit worried about messing up the tension in my Les Paul. Also have a classical acoustic and again...I'm scared to screw it up by different tunings. Is there any truth to this...bending wood and messing up my tension??

[@BluesGuitarInstitute]

Yes, tuning above standard will add more tension to the neck. Some necks can handle it just fine and others not so much. You can always tune to Open D or Open G (both require downtuning only so less stress on the neck vs standard) and then capo up for other keys.

[@KCS-w3r]

Hello John, Is BGI for absolute beginner guitar players? Or do you need some sort of prior experience? I like the way you teach. but it kind of seems like prior knowledege is needed but not really, if that makes any sense. I have checked out others and they just dont do it for me. Anyway, I hope your courses are absolute beginner friendly. Thanks..

[@BluesGuitarInstitute]

Hey and thanks for the question. Most of my lessons are best suited for those beyond the absolute beginner stage. Late-beginner to early intermediate. I teach alot of fingerstyle blues and it helps to be able to play and switch between the basic chord shapes (G, C, D, E, A).