Open D Minor Add9 Guitar Tuning
Open D Minor Add9 sets the six strings from low to high to D A D F A E. Its melancholic, open and cinematic voice works especially well for minor fingerstyle, soundtrack textures and suspended melodies.
Do this first
No theory test. No perfect technique required. Follow these three steps and start making music.
Tap each string to hear it
What changes in Open D Minor Add9
D minor gains an open E on the first string, adding the ninth above the minor chord.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Alternate F and E on the top strings while maintaining a D–A–D bass pattern.
Shape tip: Let the high E ring against F for expressive tension, then resolve it to D or F.
Retune to D A D F A E safely
All major changes lower pitch, so a normal or medium set is generally comfortable.
Change one string at a time, approach the target pitch gradually and recheck every string after the neck settles. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge lifts or the instrument reacts unpredictably.
Turn the open strings into music
Quick answers before you play
What are the notes in Open D Minor Add9 Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to D A D F A E. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Open D Minor Add9 Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
All major changes lower pitch, so a normal or medium set is generally comfortable. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in Open D Minor Add9 Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a open minor added-tone tuning changes at least part of the fretboard. Start with the open strings, simple drones and the shape guidance on this page.
Why do the strings go out of tune again after retuning?
Changing one string changes the total tension on the neck. Tune all six strings, wait briefly and repeat the process until every reference pitch remains stable.