Pentatonic I-II Axis
This tuning has a repeating pentatonic scale configured across the draw reeds and a repeating pentatonic scale a major 2nd above it on the blow reeds . In practice this tuning resides between Pentatonic I-VI which has more bends and Pentatonic I-IV which has fewer bends and is a more linear set up with more notes of the pentatonic scales doubled on the blow reeds. It strikes a fine balance providing legato trill and glissando sections and many bends. (click on navigation link at top of page for more info)
Pentatonic I-IV (aka. Pentatonic I-V) East
This tuning has a repeating pentatonic scale configured across the draw reeds and a repeating pentatonic scale a fifth higher across the blow reeds (so it should be called Pent I-V). This tuning is more linear, with fewer bends making it ideal for playing passages quickly. It is easier to play than the other two due to bends taking skill, strength, and breath by their nature.
Pentatonic I-VI West
This tuning has a repeating pentatonic scale configured across the draw reeds and a repeating pentatonic scale a sixth higher across the blow reeds. This tuning has maximum whole step bends, very expressive. Yet it isn't cumbersome as most of the bends aren't obligatory. The note can be played elsewhere.
Melodic Bend
Melodic Bend has a major/minor scale across the draw reeds and you can bend to and from every note of that scale. This gives us the ability to make melodies really sing. Further, this instrument is exceedingly chromatic. The chromatic scale can be played comfortably with solely blows and draws or solely bends or a combination of the two.
All tunings are patented or US patent pending.