Tuning

Anatomy & Gear

Tuning refers to the specific notes each of the four strings is set to. The most common ukulele tuning is gCEA (from the string closest to your face to the floor): G4-C4-E4-A4. This is called re-entrant tuning because the G string is tuned higher than the C string.

Standard gCEA tuning is used on soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles. Low G tuning replaces the high G string with one tuned an octave lower (G3), extending the bass range. Baritone ukuleles use DGBE tuning, matching the top four guitar strings.

Other tunings include D-tuning (aDF♯B, one whole step above standard — historically common) and slack-key tuning (gCEG, where the A string is tuned down to G for open C chord voicings). Each tuning opens up different sonic possibilities.