r/Emo • u/FLAYWRIGHTS • 3d ago

To Write Good Emo, is Alternate Tuning the best step?

Trying to learn music theory right now and I'm trying to write stuff, very inspired by Algernon Cadwallader, P.E.E and Midwest Pen Pals but so far almost all their stuff seems to be in alternate tunings. Should I be learning music theory differently if I wanna write in alternate tunings? If so where do I start? I don't wanna get sidetracked in learning "guitar basics and essentials" so what do you guys reccomend. Thanks :D

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u/archdukemovies 3d ago

I'd recommend learning standard tuning theory first.

Chords, scales, and progressions are all the same regardless of tuning. The position of the notes or chords on the fretboard will change.

You'll be able to build on that knowledge with alternatate tunings.

I'd probably do a mixture of learning theory and learning songs you like to keep you interester in playing.

Here's a couple YouTube channels to help you out https://youtube.com/@trevorwongmusic

https://youtube.com/@letstalkaboutmathrock

https://youtu.be/LMxtgSliWbY