How to Tune a Cello

The cello is a beautiful string instrument that is a key element in an orchestra or a string quartet or quintet. One of the first things learned is how to tune a cello. This is important to make sure that you are in tune with other instruments. Follow the steps below for tuning a cello.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin with the pegs on the pegboard, which is located at the top of the neck. The pegs control the tightness of the strings, which control the major tones. To tighten the strings, turn the pegs away from you. This can sharpen the note. To loosen the strings, turn the peg toward you. This flattens the note.

2. Pluck on each string to hear the note. The strings played open should be C, G, D and A respectively. You need an electronic tuner, piano or keyboard to check the tones.

3. Move onto the fine tuners if more tuning is needed. They are located on the front of the body at the bottom of the strings. To move the tone up, turn the fine tuners clockwise. To move the tone down, turn the fine tuners counterclockwise.

4. Check the tone again by plucking the strings one at a time. Again, they should play a C, G, D and then A open. Once you are a seasoned player or musician, you will be able to tune by ear. Otherwise, you may need an electronic tuner which can tell you exactly which way the note needs to go.

[forum803]

on 7/17/2009 great article! I have played guitar for like 6 years. And bought a cello and Iv had it for like a year and NEVER play it cuz i cant tune it...i kept thinking man cellos are IMPOSSIBLE to tune....now i know you dont tune it using the pegs!!!...thanks a bunch....1 million+ Kudos.