Scordatura on the Classical Guitar: Implications for Practice and Performance

Abstract

This performance-based project explores how scordatura (alternate tuning) challenges practice and performance on the classical guitar. A range of scordatura works have been examined to identify what adjustments can be made in practice and performance to facilitate a coherent recital. By analysing curatorial and repertoire–specific challenges, this project aims to explore the impacts scordatura has on established auditory, cognitive, kinaesthetic and visual processes. These aspects will be brought into more specific focus through four case studies: Lilith Guégmian’s Dans le Souffle du Temps, Bryan Johanson’s A Dog from Every Town, Gary Ryan’s Out of Clonmel and Richard Charlton’s Sonata of Forgotten Dreams. The project culminates in two one-hour recitals and an accompanying 7,500-word exegesis.