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Learning to play the ukulele is fun, but if your instrument is out of tune, it won’t sound right no matter how well you play.
If you're a beginner, tuning might seem tricky at first, but it’s simple once you understand the basics. You only need a few tools, like a tuner or a reference note, and a bit of practice to get it right.
Let’s walk you through how to tune your ukulele step by step so you can start playing with confidence!
1. Understanding ukulele strings and standard tuning
A standard ukulele has four strings, each producing a specific note. The most common tuning for a soprano, concert, or tenor ukulele is G-C-E-A (from top to bottom when holding the ukulele).
G – The top string (closest to your face)
C – The second string
E – The third string
A – The bottom string (closest to the floor)
This tuning is called reentrant tuning, meaning the G string is higher-pitched than the C string. Some ukulele players use a low G tuning, where the G string is lower, but beginners usually start with standard G-C-E-A.
For baritone ukuleles, the tuning is different: D-G-B-E, similar to the top four strings of a guitar.
2. Using an electronic tuner
The easiest way to tune a ukulele is by using an electronic tuner. Here’s how to do it:
Clip the tuner onto the headstock (the top part of your ukulele).
Pluck one string at a time and look at the tuner display.
If the note is too low, tighten the tuning peg (turn it clockwise).
If the note is too high, loosen the tuning peg (turn it counterclockwise).
Adjust each string until the tuner shows the correct notes: G, C, E, and A.
Digital tuners are accurate and beginner-friendly. If you don’t have one, you can use a tuning app on your phone.
3. Tuning by ear using a reference note
If you don’t have a tuner, you can tune your ukulele by matching the pitch of each string to a reference sound. You can:
Use an online ukulele tuner
Play the notes on a piano or another instrument
Listen to a recorded tuning guide
Simply pluck a string and adjust the tuning peg until it matches the correct note. This method takes practice but helps develop your musical ear.
4. Using the "fifth fret" method (tuning one string to another)
If one string is already in tune, you can tune the others based on it:
Press the 5th fret of the E string – It should match the open A string.
Press the 4th fret of the C string – It should match the open E string.
Press the 2nd fret of the G string – It should match the open A string.
This method is useful when playing without a tuner, but it requires a good ear.
5. Checking and re-tuning regularly
Ukuleles can go out of tune quickly, especially when they are new. The strings stretch, and temperature changes can affect tuning. To keep your ukulele in tune:
Tune before every practice session
Stretch new strings by gently pulling them upward
Store your ukulele in a cool, dry place
Tuning your ukulele is easy once you get the hang of it! Whether you use an electronic tuner, a reference note, or the fifth fret method, regular tuning is key to making your music sound great.
ALSO READ: A beginner's guide to tuning a guitar the right way
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