Standard Tuning for a Guitar

The most important thing any guitar player must learn before playing is how to tune his instrument. Most music is played in standard tuning, E-A-D-G-B-E.

The Sixth String

Using a digital tuner, tune the low E, or thickest string. Pluck the string. The tuner will indicate with arrows if the pitch is low or high. Turn the tuning peg until the arrows disappear.

The Fifth String

Tune the A , the next string down. Check pitch by fretting the E string, fifth fret and plucking it: The pitch should sound identical to the open A string.

The Fourth String

Tune the D, the third string down. Check pitch by fretting the A string, fifth fret and plucking: The pitch should sound identical to the open D string.

The Third String

Tune the G, the fourth string down. Check pitch by fretting the D string, fifth fret and plucking: The pitch should sound identical to the open G string.

The Second String

Tune the B, the fifth string down. Check pitch by fretting the G string, fourth fret and plucking: The pitch should sound identical to the open B string.

The First String

Tune the high E. Check pitch by fretting the B string, fifth fret and plucking: The pitch should sound identical to the open E.

References

• Guitar Tunings: A Comprehensive Guide, Dick Weissman, 2006