Preface

This master's thesis investigates the creative possibilities of alternate guitar tunings in the context of songwriting. I explore how each tuning affects the compositional structure and emotional expression of my work through employing repeated cycles of experimentation, songwriting, and reflection. Rooted in a practice-led approach, the study has me working as both researcher and practitioner producing original works while examining my creative process. My results suggest that different tunings not only expand the harmonic scene but also ignite musical ideas that might not arise using standard tuning by itself.

After seven years at the Faculty of Fine Arts, I have built strong relationships with many good friends and teachers who have encouraged me throughout my journey into songwriting. I would like to thank my two guitar teachers, Rolf Kristensen and Øyvind Nypan, for their patience and guidance during my first three years. I am also grateful to Torun Eriksen, Hilde Norbakken, and Brage Ringøen Halsnes for their vocal instruction during my master’s program. A special thanks to Torun for the inspirational lessons during the songwriting forum, and for the challenges that helped me grow as a songwriter. Thank you to Bjørn Ole Rasch for the interpretation forum, and for the motivation and creative environment you fostered for me and other students. I would also like to thank my classmates over the years for their motivation, inspiration, and support.

Finally, I would like to thank my supervisor for the dedicated guidance, sessions, and feedback that helped me shape a thesis I am proud to submit, and for believing in my capabilities throughout the process.

I dedicate this thesis to my grandfather, Tellef Juva, who has been a central inspiration in my pursuit of music. Thank you for your endless support of my musical journey and for being a good friend.