What is Open A tuning?

Open A tuning is E-A-E-A-C#-E (low to high). Strumming all strings produces an A major chord. It's structurally the same as Open G but one whole step higher.

Is Open A the same as Open G with a capo?

Yes, musically they are identical — Open G with a capo at fret 2 gives you the same pitches as Open A. Many players use this approach. Without a capo, Open A has higher string tension which some slide players prefer for better control.

What scales work in Open A?

The A major pentatonic and A blues scale are natural choices. A Mixolydian gives a bluesy feel, and the A major scale works for country and folk styles.

A# Messiaen's Mode #5 Guitar Scale

Guitar scale in Open A tuning — fretboard diagram

Tuning

Frets

A# Messiaen's Mode #5 in Open A — Notes and Intervals

The A# Messiaen's Mode #5 scale is a majestic limited-transposition scale that emphasizes large intervals. On Guitar, it contains the notes A#, B, D#, E, F, A. It creates an atmosphere of immense power and grandeur, suitable for depicting grand spiritual or cosmic concepts. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Film Scores, Orchestral. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen. Use in orchestral and cinematic contexts for moments of grandeur. Best over sustained pedal tones.

Notes: A#, B, D#, E, F, A

Intervals: 1P, 2m, 4P, 4A, 5P, 7M

Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 6

Formula: H-4-H-H-4-H

Number of notes: 6

Tuning: Open A (E-A-E-A-C#-E)

About Open A Tuning

Open A tuning (E-A-E-A-C#-E) produces an A major chord when strummed open. It is structurally identical to Open G tuned up one whole step, delivering a brighter, more tense sound that works particularly well for slide guitar centered on the key of A.

Jimmy Page used Open A with a slide on Led Zeppelin's 'In My Time of Dying' from Physical Graffiti (1975). Rory Gallagher also employed Open A for his raw, energetic slide work. Many players achieve Open A by simply placing a capo at the 2nd fret in Open G tuning, which is why dedicated Open A usage is less commonly discussed. However, without a capo, Open A gives direct access to the open A string resonance and a different feel under the fingers due to the higher tension.

BluesSlide GuitarRockDelta Blues

Notable artists: Jimmy Page, Rory Gallagher, Delta blues players

Best for: Slide guitar in the key of A, blues playing, and situations where you need the brightness of Open G tuned up without a capo

Musical Character

GrandPowerfulMajesticVast

Emphasizes large intervals creating an atmosphere of immense power and grandeur — used for depicting grand spiritual or cosmic concepts.

Explore This Scale in Other Tunings

← All Guitar scales in Open A tuning