Standard guitar tuning (EADGBE) might seem random at first, but there's fascinating history and logic behind why we tune our guitars this way. Understanding the reasoning can help you better understand the instrument and even inspire you to experiment with alternative tunings.
The Standard Tuning: EADGBE
From lowest (thickest) to highest (thinnest) string, standard tuning is:
Standard Guitar Tuning:
5th string: A
4th string: D
2nd string: B
1st string (thinnest): E
Historical Development
The guitar's tuning evolved over centuries, influenced by several factors:
1. The Lute Connection
Early guitars were heavily influenced by the lute, which used a similar tuning system. The lute's tuning was designed to create harmonious intervals between adjacent strings, making it easier to play chords and melodies.
2. Perfect Fourth Intervals
Most adjacent strings in standard tuning are tuned a perfect fourth apart (5 semitones). This creates a consistent interval pattern that makes chord shapes and scale patterns transferable across the fretboard.
Perfect Fourth Intervals:
E to A = perfect fourth (5 semitones)
A to D = perfect fourth (5 semitones)
D to G = perfect fourth (5 semitones)
G to B = major third (4 semitones) ← The exception!
B to E = perfect fourth (5 semitones)
Why the Major Third Between G and B?
The major third interval between the G and B strings is the key to understanding standard tuning. This "kink" in the pattern serves several important purposes:
1. Easier Chord Shapes
The major third interval makes common chord shapes much easier to play. For example, the open C major chord would be nearly impossible to finger if the B string were tuned to C (a perfect fourth above G).
2. Comfortable Hand Position
The major third creates a more natural hand position for playing chords and scales. It reduces the stretch required between fingers, making the instrument more accessible to players of all hand sizes.
3. Harmonic Benefits
This tuning creates rich harmonic possibilities. The major third interval between G and B allows for beautiful open chord voicings and creates interesting harmonic relationships across the strings.
The Logic Behind Each String
Low E String
The lowest string is tuned to E because it provides a solid foundation for bass lines and creates a full, rich sound. E is also a common key in many musical traditions.
A String
A perfect fourth above E, the A string provides the fifth of the E major scale and creates strong harmonic relationships with the low E.
D String
Another perfect fourth above A, the D string completes the lower register and provides the root for D major, a very common key in guitar music.
G String
The G string marks the transition to the higher register and provides the root for G major, another fundamental key in guitar playing.
B String
The major third above G creates the "kink" that makes standard tuning work. The B string provides the third of the G major scale and creates beautiful open chord possibilities.
High E String
The highest string, tuned to E, creates symmetry with the lowest string and provides the fifth of the A major scale, completing the harmonic circle.
Alternative Tunings
While standard tuning is excellent for most music, alternative tunings can open up new creative possibilities:
Open Tunings
Tunings like Open G (DGDGBD) or Open D (DADF#AD) create full chords when all strings are strummed open, perfect for slide guitar and fingerpicking.
Drop Tunings
Drop D (DADGBE) lowers the sixth string to D, creating power chords that can be played with one finger across the bottom three strings.
Why This Matters for Your Playing
Understanding the logic behind standard tuning can help you:
- Learn faster: Understanding the interval relationships helps you see patterns across the fretboard
- Create better arrangements: Knowing which keys work well with open strings helps you choose the best keys for your songs
- Experiment with tunings: Understanding the logic helps you create your own alternative tunings
- Appreciate the instrument: The guitar's tuning is a beautiful example of form following function
Key Takeaway:
Standard guitar tuning wasn't chosen arbitrarily - it's the result of centuries of musical evolution, designed to make the instrument as playable and harmonically rich as possible. The major third interval between G and B is the key innovation that makes everything work together.
Conclusion
Standard guitar tuning is a masterpiece of musical engineering. It balances playability, harmonic richness, and practical considerations in a way that has served guitarists for generations. While alternative tunings can be exciting and creative, understanding the logic behind standard tuning will make you a more informed and versatile player.
The next time you pick up your guitar, take a moment to appreciate the thoughtful design that went into its tuning. Every string, every interval, has been carefully chosen to make your musical journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.