Does my theory knowledge translate to open tunings?

[AGreatPair]

More specifically, does my knowledge of modes translate to open tunings in any way? Or do I have to learn all sorts of different mode positions on the fretboard if I want to do anything other than just doodle in open tunings?

[Jed]

If your "knowledge" is based on note names, scale degrees and intervals then it all will translate perfectly. But if your knowledge is based on geometric shapes then no - it will not translate, . . because you've moved the off-sets.

Actually on second thought, it can translate but you'll have to stay cognizant of the change in tunings and how that will modify the patterns / shapes.

cheers,

[jimc8p]

More specifically, does my knowledge of modes translate to open tunings in any way? Or do I have to learn all sorts of different mode positions on the fretboard if I want to do anything other than just doodle in open tunings?
I'm guessing you know that changing the relative tunings of the strings will change the patterns that work in EADGBE tuning by the same measure. So, basically, no. Although you might have a pair of adjacent strings that stay the same, (like the high E and B string in open E tuning). The other thing which you should be able to do is apply the interval formula of a mode to one string. For example, tuned to an E chord you can strum a rhythm whilst sliding a melody around on the high E string based on, say, a Lydian interval formula. This is actually a pretty nice and appropriate way to play modal stuff (similar in principle to an Indian Sitar). But the question arises as to why you want to play in a pattern type fashion in an open tuning? Open tunings are for chords, via which you don't really require patterns to introduce modal elements.

[Malcolm]

Alternate tunings work for some people, as I came to guitar from banjo, I messed around with open G tuning when I first started playing guitar. Worked fine for chord work, barre chords are a snap, but, as most if not all, the information of how to play single note melody (tabs) and or scales was based upon standard tuning, I decided to switch over and stay with standard tuning.

Now banjo people change tunings at the drop of a hat. They change to make the finger picking patterns easier from one song to the next. Nothing says you can not use open tunings for chord work and standard tuning for note work.

But, if you change the tuning you change the pattern, be that chord pattern or scale pattern.

Good luck with what ever you do.

[ChrisJ]

Open tunings are a great way to unlearn things. I find myself 12 years old when I tune to DADGAD. The reason is because all of a sudden I can't use old patterns and shapes and I find myself listening and searching more. Of course theory has nothing to due with the tuning of your guitar though. If you are interested, I have a DADGAD video on youtube and corresponding lesson (free of course) as well. Go to the lesson and at the bottom, you'll find the youtube video embedded:

Lesson: http://chrisjuergensen.com/dadgad.htm

[JonR]

More specifically, does my knowledge of modes translate to open tunings in any way? Or do I have to learn all sorts of different mode positions on the fretboard if I want to do anything other than just doodle in open tunings?By "modes", you mean fret patterns of course, not modes as musical entities (See previous threads ad nauseam...;) )

Yes, these patterns all dissolve and disappear as soon as you retune your guitar.

But generally open tunings are not used by people who work in scale patterns. They're used for the new chord sounds and options they provide, making playing in one key a lot easier (and other keys a lot harder). You have to work out all the new chord shapes you need, but a lot of this is best done by trial and error (you don't need to name the chords you find). Improvisation - if any - is then done around the chord shapes or - often in open tunings - up and down the top 2 or 3 strings, with the lower ones as drones.
Naturally the scale structure (fret pattern) up one string remains the same, it's only the relationships with neighbouring strings that change - and some of them may stay the same.
Eg, in open D or E - as jim8cp says - the patterns between the top 2 strings are the same as normal, because there is still a 4th between the strings.

However, the whole point of open tunings is the new sonorities you get from the chords. Don't try and apply old EADGBE habits to open tunings - that's missing the point.