Scordatura

Scordatura is a musical term that refers to an alternative tuning of a string instrument, where the strings are tuned differently than the standard tuning. This technique is often used to achieve specific tonal qualities or to facilitate playing certain passages more easily. Scordatura can be found in various string instruments, including the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. In practice, composers may specify scordatura in their compositions to create unique sounds or to exploit the unique resonance characteristics of the instrument.